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  • Preparing Your Child for Kindergarten: Part 5

    Written By: Barbie Jones, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Early Childhood Establishing Routines and School Readiness The transition to kindergarten goes more smoothly when children understand expectations and routines. Here's how to prepare in the months before school begins: Consistent Schedules Gradually adjust bedtimes and wake-up times to match the upcoming school schedule. Children thrive when their bodies are accustomed to consistent routines. Practice Attention Span Kindergarten requires focusing on teacher-directed activities. Build attention span by gradually increasing the time spent on a single activity, starting with just a few minutes and working up to 10-15 minutes. Mealtime Independence Practice opening lunch containers, using utensils effectively, and cleaning up afterward. Pack a practice lunch and have a "school lunch" picnic to build confidence. Morning Routines Establish clear morning routines that your child can gradually take ownership of: getting dressed, brushing teeth, eating breakfast, and preparing a backpack. Visual checklists can help children track their progress. Visit the School Attend kindergarten orientation events, play on the school playground during off-hours, or walk by the school regularly. Familiarity with the physical environment reduces first-day anxiety. The goal isn't to create stress about kindergarten but to build excitement and confidence. Talk positively about school, answer questions honestly, and assure your child that teachers are there to help. With thoughtful preparation, you are setting the stage for a successful kindergarten experience.

  • Helping Your Child Set Goals for Academic Success: 5 Strategies for Parents

    Written by: Dr. Karyn Scott, Director of Curriculum and Instruction K12 Parents play a crucial role in shaping their child's academic success, and fostering a strong school-home partnership can enhance their learning experience. One of the most effective ways to support your child’s educational journey is by reinforcing goal-setting skills both at home and in collaboration with their teachers. When parents and educators work together, children receive consistent guidance and encouragement, helping them develop responsibility, motivation, and a sense of accomplishment. By aligning home strategies with school expectations, you can create a supportive environment that empowers your child to set and achieve meaningful academic goals. Here are five strategies to help you guide your child in this process! 1- Set SMART Goals Together Encourage your child to create goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART) . Instead of a vague goal like “I want to do better in math,” guide them to say, “I will practice multiplication for 15 minutes each day to improve my test scores over the next month.” SMART goals provide a clear roadmap and make success easier to track. 2- Create a Visual Goal Board A goal board is a great way to keep your child’s academic goals front and center. Use a whiteboard, poster, or digital tool to display their goals, progress, and achievements. Seeing their objectives daily serves as a constant reminder and motivation to stay on track. You can also add stickers or rewards for milestones reached! 3- Develop a Daily and Weekly Plan Help your child break down their goals into manageable steps by creating a structured schedule. If they want to improve their reading skills, schedule 20 minutes of reading time each night. If they have a big project, assist them in dividing it into smaller tasks with specific deadlines. Consistent routines help children build discipline and avoid last-minute stress. 4- Encourage a Growth Mindset Teach your child that mistakes and setbacks are part of the learning process. Instead of saying, “I’m not good at this,” encourage them to think, “I haven’t mastered this yet , but I will keep trying.” Praise their effort rather than just their intelligence to foster resilience and persistence in their studies. 5- Celebrate Progress and Success Recognizing achievements, big or small, keeps children motivated. Celebrate their hard work with words of encouragement, a small reward, or a special treat. Reinforcing their progress helps build confidence and enthusiasm for future learning goals. By guiding your child in setting realistic and meaningful academic goals, you equip them with essential skills for lifelong success. With your encouragement and these simple strategies, they will learn to take ownership of their learning, stay motivated, and develop a positive attitude toward their education. Throughout the school year, meet with your child’s teacher to help set those goals.

  • Reconnect, Recharge, and Relax

    Written By: Yanira Melendez , M.S., Clinical Counselor Summer is finally here, and before we know it, we will be returning to a new school year. I love to call them the 3 R’s: Reconnect, Recharge, and Relax . Create lasting memories with the people and children we love most. Whether we’re spending time at home or exploring our local community, this season offers so many opportunities to bond with our families without breaking the bank. This summer, let’s focus on laughter, love, and togetherness. I know this can be challenging, but remind the kids to take a break from screens, slow down, and soak up the sunshine when it’s not raining. There are free local adventures to enjoy outside or in our own backyards and these are often the memories that money can’t buy. We can break it down into three categories: outdoor fun, at-home creativity, and exploring while we learn. Outdoor fun can include visiting local parks and nature trails: riding bikes, going for walks, or creating a scavenger hunt. We can visit nearby beaches or plan a lake day, soaking up the sun and packing some snacks. Even camping in the backyard or visiting a community garden can spark creativity and connection. If you’re struggling to get the kids outside, let’s get creative at home. Try a family art night by painting rocks or making a collage. Cook or bake together and let the kids take the lead. Have a board game night everyone enjoys, or turn your living room into a home movie theater: pick a theme, pop popcorn, and make movie tickets! Exploring your local community can also be fun. Visit the local library, check out free museums, or stop by the farmers’ market. The goal is to put the 3 R’s into practice. It doesn’t take a lot of money to make summer magical—just time, attention, and imagination. The local library is a great place to start. https://ocls.org/locations-hours/

  • Learning through Play!

    Written by: Tania Villalon, ELA Teacher Summer is here, and it’s the perfect time for kids to have fun while continuing to learn! By using ideas from the Science of Reading, we can make sure that middle schoolers and upper elementary students not only enjoy their summer but also boost their reading and writing skills. One exciting way to do this is by creating a summer reading journal. Imagine your child diving into new books and jotting down their thoughts and favorite quotes! Encourage them to write about what they loved, what surprised them, or even to invent new endings for their favorite stories. This creative journaling not only keeps their minds active but also helps them understand stories better—what a win-win! Another fantastic summer activity is multimedia storytelling. Kids can take a story they adore or come up with their own and turn it into a captivating presentation using fun digital tools like videos or slideshows. Picture your child crafting a colorful presentation filled with images, sounds, and their own voice narrating the tale! This approach helps them think critically about the story, understand character motivations, and organize their thoughts. By engaging in this creative process, they'll learn new vocabulary and strengthen their reading skills—all while having an absolute blast! Finally, how about organizing an interactive book club? This is a super fun way for kids to dive into books together! They can read a book as a group and then gather to chat about it, sharing their thoughts and ideas. Parents can spice up the discussions by asking fun questions like, "If you could be any character, who would you choose and why?" or "What would you do differently if you were in the story?" These lively conversations not only make reading more enjoyable but also help kids think deeper about the material. With these fun activities grounded in research, your child can have an amazing summer filled with learning and laughter!

  • A message from The Principal!

    Dear UCP Osceola Families, Welcome back! The 2025–2026 school year is set to begin with excitement among incredible students, dedicated staff, and supportive families. Whether returning to campus or joining for the first time, everyone is a valued part of the UCP Osceola community. The mission at UCP Osceola is to create an inclusive, engaging, and nurturing environment that empowers every student to reach their full potential. Success extends beyond academic achievements; the goal is to nurture well-rounded students who are confident, compassionate, and prepared to navigate their futures. Focus remains on building strong foundations in academics while encouraging creativity, social growth, independence, and a love of learning. The team is committed to collaborating with families at every step to ensure each student receives the required support to excel. Anticipation is high for the remarkable achievements students will attain this year. Let us collectively aim for a year of personal growth, shared laughter, and unparalleled success. Here’s to a fantastic school year! Sincerely, Joshua Torres Principal,  UCP Osceola

  • Back to School - Planning and Practicing for Success

    Written By: Anna O'Connor Morin , Senior Director of Education Preparing for the school year is essential to help your child feel confident, excited, and ready to learn. Research shows that children who start school behind often struggle to catch up, with about 75% never reaching the same level as their peers. Early preparation, such as building routines, engaging in fun learning activities, and fostering excitement about school, can make a big difference in your child’s success.. By preparing your child for the school year, you are setting them up for a strong foundation in learning and life. Here is a parent-friendly list of ideas to help prepare students for back to school: Toddler to Pre Kindergarte n Fun Activities to Prepare for School 1. Visit the Zoo or Farm: Introduce your child to animals by naming them, discussing their colors, and mimicking their sounds. This builds vocabulary and curiosity. 2. Explore Nature: Take a walk outside, let your child touch soft grass, and observe colorful flowers. This encourages sensory exploration. 3. Play Hide and Seek: Engage in this fun game at home or in the yard to develop problem-solving and social skills. 4. Splash Pad Fun: Visit a community park with splash pads. Ask your child to count the spaces where water comes out to practice early math skills. 5. Star Gazing: Sit outside at night and count stars together. This activity fosters curiosity and early counting skills. 6. Bedtime Reading: Read a book together before bed and talk about family memories or upcoming school adventures. This builds literacy and emotional readiness. Preparing for the First Day 1. Visit the School: Plan a visit to meet your child’s teacher and administrator. Attend back-to-school orientation to familiarize your child with the environment. 2. Practice Morning Routines: Rehearse getting ready for school, including breakfast and driving to school, to establish a predictable routine. 3. Talk About Feelings: Discuss your child’s feelings about starting school. Address any anxieties and share excitement about new experiences. 4. Create a Daily Routine: Establish a consistent schedule for mornings, afternoons, and bedtime to help your child adjust to the school year. 5. Read Stories About School: Share books about classrooms, learning, and making friends to build excitement and familiarity with the school setting. Parental Involvement 1. Join School Activities: Inquire about the parent-teacher association, volunteer opportunities, and field trips. Stay involved in your child’s education. 2. Establish Communication: Ask the teacher about their preferred communication method, such as email or a classroom app, to stay informed and connected. Elementary School Build Excitement for School 1. Visit the School: Take your child to meet their teacher and explore the school before the first day. Attend back-to-school orientation to help them feel comfortable in their new environment. 2. Talk About School: Discuss your child’s feelings about starting school. Share positive stories about making friends and learning new things to ease any anxiety. 3. Read Books About School: Choose stories about classrooms, learning, and making friends to help your child feel excited and prepared. Establish Routines 1. Practice Morning Routines: Rehearse getting ready for school, including breakfast and the drive to school, to create a predictable and stress-free start to the day. 2. Set a Bedtime Schedule: Create a calm and consistent bedtime routine to ensure your child gets enough sleep. Limit screen time before bed to help them wind down. 3. Organize School Supplies: Help your child organize their backpack and supplies. Teach them how to keep their materials neat and ready for use. Engage in Fun Learning Activities 1. Explore Nature: Take walks outside to observe plants, animals, and the environment. Encourage your child to ask questions and share what they see. 2. Practice Math and Reading: Create a fun reading list or play games that involve counting and problem-solving to keep their minds active. 3. Visit Community Spaces: Plan trips to parks, museums, or libraries to spark curiosity and learning in a relaxed setting. Encourage Social and Emotional Readiness 1. Talk About Friendships: Discuss how to make new friends and practice social skills like sharing and taking turns. 2. Model a Growth Mindset: Encourage your child to try their best, learn from mistakes, and celebrate their efforts to build confidence and resilience. 3. Plan Family Activities: Spend quality time together to strengthen your child’s sense of security and readiness for new experiences. Stay Involved 1. Join School Activities: Get involved in the parent-teacher association, volunteer opportunities, or field trips to stay connected to your child’s education. 2. Communicate with Teachers: Establish open communication with your child’s teacher to stay informed about their progress and needs. Middle School Build Excitement and Confidence 1. Visit the School: Take your child to meet their teachers and explore the school layout. This can help them feel more comfortable and confident about navigating their new environment. 2. Discuss Expectations: Talk about what middle school will be like, including new responsibilities, making friends, and participating in activities. Highlight the exciting opportunities they will have. 3. Encourage a Growth Mindset: Help your child focus on their strengths and the importance of learning from mistakes. Celebrate their efforts and perseverance to build confidence. Establish Routines 1. Practice Time Management: Teach your child how to use a planner or calendar to keep track of assignments, activities, and deadlines. This will help them stay organized and reduce stress. 2. Set a Consistent Schedule: Create a daily routine that includes time for homework, extracurricular activities, and relaxation. Ensure they get enough sleep and eat a nutritious breakfast to start the day right. 3. Organize School Supplies: Help your child set up an organizer with sections for each subject, including a calendar for assignments and space for work in progress. Stock it with essentials like pens, pencils, and paper. Engage in Learning Activities 1. Encourage Reading: Create a fun and meaningful reading list to keep their minds active. Choose books that match their interests and challenge their thinking. 2. Explore Interests: Support your child in exploring hobbies or activities they enjoy, such as sports, music, or art. This can help them feel more connected and engaged in school life. 3. Visit Community Spaces: Plan trips to museums, parks, or community programs that offer sensory-friendly or educational activities to spark curiosity and learning. Foster Social and Emotional Readiness 1. Talk About Friendships: Discuss how to make and maintain friendships. Role-play scenarios to help them practice social skills like starting conversations and resolving conflicts. 2. Provide a Safe Space to Share: Listen to your child’s concerns about middle school and brainstorm strategies to help them succeed. Reassure them that it’s okay to ask for help when needed. 3. Encourage Peer Interactions: Arrange opportunities for your child to connect with peers, such as group activities or community events, to build their social confidence. Stay Involved 1. Attend Open Houses: Participate in back-to-school events to meet teachers, learn about classroom expectations, and establish a connection with the school community. 2. Communicate with Teachers: Maintain open communication with your child’s teachers to stay informed about their progress and address any concerns early. 3. Support Independence: Encourage your child to take responsibility for their learning by setting goals, asking for help when needed, and making decisions about their education.

  • Invitation to Bid and Contract Catered School Meals

    Notice of Bid for Osceola Charter Location Notice of Bid This Invitation to Bid (ITB) is for the purpose of obtaining responses from caterers and vendors to provide meal services for UCP of Central Florida (1101), Osceola Charter (0900). Child Nutrition Programs operated will include the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and the programs checked below:  ☒ School Breakfast Program (SBP)  ☐ Afterschool Snack Program (ASP)  ☒  Seamless Summer Option (SSO)  ☐ Summer Food Service Program (SFSP)   UCP of Central Florida, Osceola Charter is a public charter school located in Kissimmee, Florida. The goal of the Food Service Program is to provide healthy, nutritious, and appetizing breakfast and lunch meals to students during the school year and summer programming.   Bid Submission Responses should address each of the requirements set forth in this ITB. Please provide the requested information no later than 5:00 PM EST on 06/26/2025 (date) to the address below. Responses will be publicly opened at 9:00 AM EST on 06/27/2025 (date) to be evaluated per the criteria specified. UCP of Central Florida Child Nutrition and Food Services Matthew Copeland 4780 Data Ct. Orlando FL 32817 Timeline 06/02/2025 Solicitation available to public 06/18/2025 Bid questions due 06/20/2025 Bid questions answered by publishing Addendum 1, if applicable 06/26/2025 Bid submissions due by 5:00 PM EST 06/27/2025 Bid submissions publicly opened 06/27/2025 SFA review of Bids 06/27/2025 SFA recommendation to FDACS and FDACS review  07/04/2025 Contract Awarded 08/11/2025 Vendor begins service   Evaluation Criteria Bids received will be reviewed to ensure all materials have been submitted as specified in this ITB. Contract award decision will be made based on the most responsive and responsible Vendor that provides the bid. Contact For questions, contact Matthew Copeland at matthew.copeland@ucpcfl.org Please download and review the Bid & Contract below

  • Container Syndrome

    Written by: Dr. Sarah Valley PT, DPT, Physical Therapy Lead/Diagnostician and Therapy Outreach Liaison With the summer just a few weeks away, it’s a good time to remember how important freedom is for our children, developmentally, cognitively, physically and emotionally. There are many “containers” we tend to put our children into, perhaps to keep them safe while we are doing something, but that can lead to some serious consequences. Some containers include strollers, bouncers, infant swings, car seats (when used to hold a child outside of the car), molded support seats, and highchairs (when used other than feeding). While these can be useful to provide support during a specific activity, children should also be given frequent opportunities throughout the day to have the freedom to move.   Positioning is important.  Imagine sitting in a stroller or car seat for several hours and you are semi-reclined. Your eyes are looking up at the top of the walls and ceiling. You would miss all the action of what is happening around you. Your vestibular system is developing and will be associating “upright” with that reclined position. This means that when you actually are upright, your vestibular system will tell you that you’re falling forward. Your core muscles aren’t getting the opportunity to strengthen to hold you up. Your movements are restricted, and your arm and leg muscles can get tight. Instead of putting them in a container, lay a blanket on the floor or outside in the grass and place your child on their stomach. This allows their neck muscles to be activated to lift up their head. The child can freely move their arms and legs and change positions. They are able to explore different ways of moving including rolling, crawling, and pulling to stand. Ways to combat or prevent container baby syndrome: Limit time in a container to 10-15 minutes as much as possible. For every 10 minutes spent in a container, spend double that on the floor. If the child falls asleep in the car seat or stroller, move them to their crib as soon as possible. Having them sleep in an inclined position can increase the risk of SIDS and head flattening. Consider using a carrier to take your child for a walk, instead of a stroller. It allows the child to move their arms and legs and strengthen their neck muscles. It also lets them see things from an upright angle and be close to you. Have a place where the child can play freely such as in a playpen or gated off area with frequent opportunities for them to spend time on their stomach and back. They will still need to be supervised but will have the freedom to change positions and explore.

  • From Classroom to Summer: Supporting Children Through School Year Endings and New Beginnings

    As the school year comes to a close, many families celebrate milestones like graduations or the transition into summer break. While these moments can be exciting, they may also bring about stress, anxiety, and emotional upheaval—especially for children who struggle with change or separation anxiety. As school clinical counselors, we often work with parents to help them support their children during these sensitive transitions in ways that build emotional resilience and create a sense of safety. One of the most important steps is to acknowledge your child’s feelings. Changes such as leaving a beloved teacher, saying goodbye to friends, or graduating to a new school level can trigger feelings of grief, fear, or uncertainty. It's important to normalize these emotions by validating them without rushing to “fix” them. Simple statements like, “It’s okay to feel sad about leaving your classroom” or “I know change can feel scary” go a long way in helping children process transitions in a healthy way. For children who struggle with anxiety, especially around separation or uncertainty, establishing predictable routines during the summer can provide much-needed structure. Routines help children feel secure, offering a sense of control amid the unknown. This doesn’t mean overscheduling, balance is key, but having consistent sleep times, meal routines, and planned activities can prevent feelings of aimlessness or overwhelm. Preparing for transitions early is another helpful strategy. Talk about what’s coming next in an age-appropriate way: visit the new school, look at pictures of the upcoming grade level, or involve your child in planning their summer activities. For younger children, using visual calendars or storybooks about change can be very effective tools. For older kids, journaling or family discussions can help process emotions and set positive goals. Finally, let your child know that they are not alone. Stay connected, offer reassurance, and emphasize your confidence in their ability to handle change. If needed, don’t hesitate to reach out to a school counselor or therapist for additional support. With patience, empathy, and preparation, transitions can become powerful opportunities for growth and resilience.

  • AI in the Classroom

    Written by: Anna O'Connor-Morin, Senior Director of Education Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming elementary education across the United States. Our research indicates that approximately 43% of students already interact with AI-powered educational tools in some capacity , demonstrating the growing prevalence of these technologies in early education settings. This significant adoption rate reflects both the increasing availability of child-friendly AI applications and the natural affinity young learners have for interactive digital experiences. The awareness and understanding of AI technologies among elementary students has grown substantially in recent years. Even children in the earliest grades demonstrate remarkable adaptability when introduced to age-appropriate AI tools. This growing awareness is partly attributable to the increased presence of AI in everyday life—from voice assistants in homes to smart features on devices families use regularly. At UCP Charter Schools, we've observed that this familiarity provides an excellent foundation for building more structured educational experiences. Perhaps most significantly, AI technologies enable an unprecedented level of personalization in the learning experience. Traditional classroom models necessarily operate at a pace that accommodates the average learner, but AI-powered systems can adapt in real-time to each student's unique learning style, pace, and interests. This personalization creates more engaging educational experiences that respond dynamically to student inputs, challenges, and achievements. The responsive nature of these technologies helps maintain student interest while delivering content in optimal ways for individual learners.

  • Building Bridges: Connecting Students and Their School Day

    Written by: Vanessa Ewbank, Professional Learning Specialist Ever wonder what your child’s school day looks like? Connecting with your student about their experiences can strengthen your bond and encourage their love of learning. It’s not just about asking questions—it’s about showing them that their school day matters to you. With a little effort, you can create meaningful conversations that foster connection and curiosity. Ask Open-Ended Questions Skip the usual “How was school?” and ask something more engaging, like, “What was the best part of your day?” or “Did anything make you laugh?” These questions encourage your child to share stories, making the conversation more interesting for both of you. Review Together Spend time looking at their assignments or creative projects. Instead of focusing on grades, highlight their effort: “This drawing is so colorful! What inspired you?” or “Your essay has such great details—how did you decide on this topic?” This not only boosts their confidence but also gives you insight into what excites or challenges them. Share Your Day Model openness by sharing something from your own day. For example, “I learned something interesting in a meeting today, and it reminded me of what you’re learning in science!” Sharing your experiences creates a comfortable, two-way dialogue that builds trust and encourages them to open up. Encourage Reflection Ask questions that help your child focus on growth and positivity. “What’s one thing you’re proud of from today?” or “What are you excited about tomorrow?” Reflection helps them build a growth mindset and stay engaged with their learning. By taking these small steps, you show your child that their school experiences are important—and that you’re their biggest cheerleader. Over time, these moments of connection can grow into traditions that strengthen your relationship and help your child thrive. Start building those bridges today, one conversation at a time!

  • Section I: Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

    Notification of Rights Under FERPA for Elementary and Secondary Schools The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students who are 18 years of age or older (eligible students) certain rights with respect to your student’s education records. These rights are: 1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within forty-five 45 days of the day the school receives a request for access. Parents/guardians or eligible students who wish to inspect their child’s or their education records must submit a written request to the principal that identifies the record(s) the parents/guardians or eligible student wishes to inspect. The principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent/guardian or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. 2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education record that the parent/guardian or eligible student believes is inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. Parents/guardians or eligible students who wish to ask the school to amend their child’s or their education records must write the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. If the school decides not to amend the record as requested, the school will notify the parent/guardian or eligible student of the decision and of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. If, as a result of the hearing, the school still decides not to amend the record, the parent/guardian or eligible student can insert a statement into the record setting forth his or her views regarding the nature of the inaccuracy. The statement must remain with the contested part of the record for as long as the record is maintained. Please note, while the FERPA amendment procedure may be used to challenge facts that are inaccurately recorded, it may not be used to challenge a grade, an opinion, or a substantive decision made by a school about a student. FERPA was intended to require only that schools conform to fair recordkeeping practices and not to override the accepted standards and procedures for making academic assessments, disciplinary rulings, or placement determinations. Additionally, if FERPA's amendment procedures are not applicable to a parent's/guardian’s request for amendment of education records, the school is not required under FERPA to hold a hearing on the matter. 3. The right to consent to disclosure of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the district as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff; the person elected to the school board; or, a person or company with whom the district has contracted to perform a specific task. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Additionally, personally identifiable information will be released without consent to appropriate officials in emergency situations, to comply with a lawfully issued subpoena and in cases involving compulsory school attendance and child abuse. Further disclosures of personally identifiable information from educational records of a student without obtaining prior written consent of the parents/guardians or the eligible students can be found in 34 C.F.R. Part 99.31 . Please note: Per FERPA, disciplinary records are also considered educational records and cannot be disclosed unless one of the above exceptions applies. 4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the school to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The address of the office that administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202-4605. Release of Directory Information The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) , a Federal law, requires that UCP CHARTER SCHOOLS, with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child’s education records. However,  UCP CHARTER SCHOOLS may disclose appropriately designated “directory information” without written consent, unless you have advised UCP CHARTER SCHOOLS to the contrary in accordance with UCP CHARTER SCHOOLS procedures and Board Policy JRA, Student Records . The form to opt-out of the release of directory information can be obtained from your child’s school. Please note, directory information, as permitted by the Board, will only be shared with contracted entities and is pursuant to Board Policy JRA, Student Records. In accordance with FERPA and Board Policy JRA, Student Records, the following information, also known as “directory information,” can be found in your child’s school records and is not confidential: • Student name; • Student address; • Telephone numbers, if listed; • Name of the most recent previous school or program attended; • Dates of attendance at schools in the district; • Participation in officially recognized activities and sports; • Diplomas, certificates, and honors received; • Date of graduation; and • Date and place of birth. Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s/guardian's prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. Military recruiters may also request the name, addresses, and telephone listings of students pursuant to federal law. Local educational agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, as amended (ESEA), must provide the requested information to the military recruiters, unless parents/guardians have advised the LEA that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent. [Note: These laws are Section 9528 of the ESEA (20 U.S.C. § 7908) and 10 U.S.C. § 503(c) , and Section 1003.451, Florida Statutes.] In addition, the names and directory information pertaining to children of active or former law enforcement officers, investigative personnel of the Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services, firefighters, justices and judges, and other officials, as outlined in Section 119.07, Florida Statutes , are exempt from disclosure. If such a parent/guardian makes a written request to the school that information not be released by the school without parent/guardian consent, the school shall not release such information. Release of Educational Records to Other Educational Agencies FERPA permits disclosure of educational records to other educational agencies or institutions in accordance with 34 C.F.R. § 99.34 . UCP CHARTER SCHOOLS may disclose educational records to other educational agencies or institutions that have requested the records and in which the student seeks or intends to enroll or is already enrolled so long as the disclosure is for purposes related to the student’s enrollment or transfer. The parent/guardian may request a copy of the record that was disclosed, and/or the parent/guardian may request a hearing as outlined in this Section. In addition, pursuant to Section 1003.25, Florida Statutes , educational records transferred to another educational agency shall include: verified reports of serious or recurrent behavior patterns, including threat management evaluations and intervention services; and psychological evaluations, including therapeutic treatment plans and therapy or progress notes created or maintained by UCP CHARTER SCHOOLS, as appropriate.

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