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At UCP Charter Schools, our commitment lies in inspiring and empowering students, fostering their creativity and critical thinking skills, and cultivating a profound passion for learning. Our dedicated staff has created a supportive and inclusive environment that promotes excellence and success, emphasizing that education is not just about acquiring knowledge but also embracing the thrill of discovery and personal growth. From our vibrant student community, we proudly highlight three outstanding students from our Seminole Campus. Angela Meet our first Bright Spark, Angela, a remarkable fourth grader with a boundless love for learning. Her passion for education shines through in everything she does. She adores animals and dreams of someday working for the ASPCA to help injured animals. Above all, Angela treasures her family, who mean the world to her. Olivia Our second Bright Spark, Olivia, is a creative soul who loves arts and crafts. Olivia is an enthusiastic member of the UCP Kidz dance group, where she recently dazzled audiences with her performance at the UCP Gala and Breakfast. Her passion for creativity and dance makes her a shining star in our community. Mason Lastly, we have Mason, an enthusiastic student heading into fifth grade at UCP. Mason has a strong passion for sports, especially basketball, where he shines on the court. He also has a keen interest in math and science, aspiring to become the "King of Math" one day. Mason's drive and curiosity make him a standout student with a bright future ahead. These Bright Sparks embody the values and spirit of UCP Charter Schools, reminding us daily of the joy and fulfillment that come from nurturing young minds. We are incredibly proud of Angela, Olivia, and Mason and look forward to celebrating their continued successes as they grow and thrive in our community. Watch Mason's, Olivia's, and Angela's Interviews now!

At UCP Charter Schools, we are committed to sparking inspiration and empowerment in our students, encouraging them to think creatively and critically while fostering a profound appreciation for the joy of learning. Through the work of our staff, we have created a dedicated environment that cultivates excellence and success, while showing that learning is not only about gaining knowledge but also about embracing the thrill of exploration and personal growth. Within our diverse student community, we have two outstanding third graders from our Pine Hills Campus that we want to highlight. These two Bright Sparks stand out, embodying the inclusive spirit of UCP and serving as inspirations to us all. Xena Our first UCP Pine Hills Bright Spark is Xena, a diligent young lady known for her confident expression of ideas. Described as remarkably knowledgeable, Xena shows immense potential for a bright future. Teachers admire her for being a friend to everyone and a valuable asset in the classroom, where her charm knows no bounds. In her free time, Xena enjoys playing pranks with her grandpa (on her grandma), engaging in virtual adventures on ROBLOX with her sister, and caring for her pet gecko, Charlie. Xena's enthusiasm for learning and her compassionate nature make her a true joy to have in our school community, and we are excited to see all the wonderful things she will achieve in the future. Darlentz Our second Bright Spark is Darlentz, a budding researcher or scientist. Darlentz is a highly intelligent student with a deep passion for learning. He possesses a curious nature and enjoys exploring new concepts and ideas. His favorite subject is science, where he thrives on conducting experiments and uncovering new discoveries. When he is not immersed in scientific exploration, Darlentz enjoys spending time with his family and friends. He envisions a future filled with various career paths, including scientist, engineer, or banker, confident that whatever path he chooses, success awaits him. In our dynamic UCP student community, Xena and Darlentz shine brightly, showcasing the incredible potential of all our students. Through our charter schools, we remain committed to inclusive education models that empower every student to unlock their full potential. Watch Xena and Darlentz's interviews here!

At UCP Charter Schools, we are dedicated to inspiring and empowering our students, encouraging them to think creatively and critically while nurturing a deep love for learning. Our staff has built a supportive environment that fosters excellence and success, emphasizing that education is about acquiring knowledge and embracing the excitement of discovery and personal growth. From our diverse student community, we want to highlight three exceptional first graders from our Seminole Campus. Ana Marie and Julian Our first two Bright Sparks are Ana Marie and Julian, twins from our UCP Seminole Campus. Ana Marie and Julian are in first grade and have an insatiable love for learning. Ana Marie is a true bookworm with impressive reading skills, making her the best reader in the school. Julian's heart holds space for math, making him the highest-ranked mathlete on his campus. Both rockstar twins love everything about their school, especially their kindergarten teacher, Miss Stacy, who started their journey as little learners. Ana Marie and Julian are true inspirations, exemplifying what it means to be a student at UCP Seminole. Telia Telia is another UCP Seminole first-grade Bright Spark excelling in school. Telia is a kind and polite individual, described by her teachers as having a “heart of gold.” She empathizes with her peers and is always ready to extend a helping hand or offer support when needed. Telia’s remarkable kindness and compassion are evident in everything she does. Her enthusiasm for learning and compassionate nature make her a true joy to have in our school community. Her calm and bright nature will shine brightly in her future, no matter where she goes. In our dynamic UCP student community, Telia, Ana Marie, and Julian shine brightly, showcasing the incredible potential of all our students. Through our charter schools, we remain committed to inclusive education models that empower every student to unlock their full potential. Watch Telia and the twins's interviews here!

Summertime is the perfect season for relaxation and fun, where hours are filled with beachy days and endless fun instead of classes and homework. While it's a time to unwind, maintaining a structured yet flexible routine can provide a sense of stability and ensure that your children make the most of their break. Here are some tips for building a summer routine that balances fun, learning, and relaxation. Set a Consistent Wake-Up and Bedtime: Even though school is out, maintaining a regular sleep schedule is crucial. Consistent wake-up and bedtime routines help children get the rest they need and provide structure for their day. Schedule Fun Activities During the Day: Incorporate a mix of fun and educational activities into your daily routine. This could include reading time, educational games, or visits to museums and libraries. Engaging in these activities keeps children’s minds active and helps prevent the summer slide. Set Up a Daily Schedule and Follow It: A daily routine can help you and your child stay organized during the break, making the transition back to a school schedule easier. Include Chores and Responsibilities: Assigning age-appropriate chores helps teach responsibility and the importance of contributing to the household. Make a chore chart and involve your children in daily tasks like making their beds, tidying up, or helping with meal preparation. Allow for Downtime: While having a structured routine is important, it’s equally essential to allow for downtime. Ensure there’s time each day for your children to relax and unwind. This could be through quiet activities like reading, drawing, or simply enjoying some free play. Downtime helps children recharge and promotes a balanced lifestyle. Stay Flexible: While having a routine is beneficial, it’s important to stay flexible and open to spontaneous activities. Summer often brings unexpected opportunities for fun, so be willing to adjust your schedule to accommodate new adventures. Flexibility ensures that the routine remains enjoyable and stress-free. By creating a balanced summer routine, you can ensure that your children have a fun, enriching, and well-rounded break. A mix of structured activities, creative play, physical exercise, and family time will help them make the most of their summer while providing a sense of stability and predictability. Here’s to a summer filled with joy, growth, and unforgettable memories!

At UCP Charter Schools, our mission is to inspire and empower our students to think creatively and critically, fostering a deep appreciation for the joy and rewards of learning. We are dedicated to cultivating an environment that encourages our students to excel and succeed. Our focus is on showing our students that learning is not just about acquiring knowledge but also about discovering the joy of exploration and growth. Within our diverse student body, we have many outstanding individuals who have shown exceptional talent and achievement. These Bright Sparks from our diverse Healthy West Orange Campus embody the inclusive spirit of UCP and serve as inspirations to us all. Lucas Our first West Orange Bright Spark is Lucas, a 4th grader who is paving the way for all the leaders who will come after him. As the youngest safety patrol in his school, Lucas shows his love of being a leader and his desire to be in service to others. Described by his teachers as a highly accomplished and thoughtful student, Lucas fearlessly stands up for his beliefs and questions things that do not seem right to him. Having been a student at UCP since Pre-K, Lucas is truly an inspiration to our Healthy West Orange community. Viviana The studious fourth grader from our West Orange Campus taking the world by storm with her dedication and hard work is none other than our second Bright Spark Viviana. Viviana is an academic force who approaches her studies with diligence and a strong work ethic. Beyond her academic prowess, Viviana is known for her sensitivity and caring nature. She empathizes with her peers, always ready to extend a helping hand or offer support when needed. One of Viviana's notable traits is her desire for adult approval. She values the guidance and feedback of her teachers and mentors, often seeking their validation for her efforts. Viviana's unique blend of studiousness, compassion, and desire for approval truly sets her apart from the rest. Leah Leah, a first-grade student who follows in the footsteps of her big brother Lucas, is one of UCP West Oranges' youngest Bright Sparks. Described as kind and polite, Leah consistently uses manners like "please" and "thank you." She is known as a good friend, always ready to help wherever needed. Leah's kindness knows no bounds; she makes a point to sit with and assist a special friend in class each day. Academically, Leah has shown significant growth since the beginning of the year. She is mastering decoding and reading words, excelling in math, and displaying a love for working with numbers. Leah's remarkable kindness and compassion are evident, qualities that will undoubtedly support her dream of becoming a doctor when she grows up. Brynlee Our final Bright Spark is Brynlee, a young achiever whose ambition is boundless. In her interview, she shared her unique career plans, envisioning herself as a part-time construction worker, dancer, and artist. Despite her young age, Brynlee's determination, and creative spirit shine through as she sets her sights high and dreams of pursuing multiple passions simultaneously. In her free time, Brynlee enjoys exploring the world of technology through her iPad and cherishing moments spent with her baby brother. Her story is a testament to the power of imagination and the limitless possibilities that lie ahead. We are excited to celebrate our student's bright sparks at UCP. Watch their full interviews HERE.

Summer is the perfect time for children to explore, learn, and have fun. As parents, we want to ensure that every child, regardless of their abilities, can participate in enriching and enjoyable activities. At UCP, we believe in fostering an inclusive environment where all children can thrive. Here are some fantastic summer activities that cater to diverse needs, ensuring that every child has a memorable and fulfilling summer. Nature Walks and Scavenger Hunts: Activities in nature can encourage kids to explore their surroundings. Create a scavenger hunt and search for items like leaves, rocks, flowers, and animal tracks. Make it a competition and see who finds the most items first. Gardening: Start a small garden together. Gardening can be therapeutic and educational, allowing children to learn about plants and responsibility. Arts & Crafts: Set up an art station with various supplies like paints, clay, and recycled materials. Encourage children to express themselves creatively while practicing their fine motor skills with activities like beading and threading to create friendship bracelets. Music and Movement Exploration: Introduce children to different instruments or music-making household items. Music can help the body and the mind work together. Dancing to music helps children build motor skills while allowing them to practice self-expression. For children and adults, music also helps strengthen memory skills. STEM Activities: Engage in simple science experiments, building projects, or coding games designed to be accessible for all children. Practice your science skills by building an at-home volcano. Library Programs: Many libraries offer summer reading programs and inclusive activities such as storytelling sessions, craft hours, and sensory-friendly events. Sensory and Water Play: Create a sensory bin with different textures, like rice, beans, or sand, for children to explore. Include tools like scoops, funnels, and containers. You can also set up a water play area with sprinklers, water tables, or a small pool. Yoga and Mindfulness: Practice simple yoga poses and mindfulness exercises together. There are many resources available that cater to children with different needs. By embracing these inclusive summer activities, we can create a season filled with joy, growth, and unforgettable memories for all children. Whether it's exploring nature, engaging in creative projects, or participating in adaptive sports, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Let's make this summer a time of adventure and learning, where every child feels valued and included. Together, we can ensure that all children thrive and make the most of their summer break.

We are excited to share the recent coverage by Channel 6 News highlighting UCP of Central Florida's remarkable achievement of receiving an $8.9 million federal charter grant! This significant funding will enable us to embark on five transformative projects over the next five years, enhancing our educational offerings and facilities to benefit our students and families. The grant will be strategically utilized for projects such as adding more technology in our classrooms, completing the ongoing expansion of our Healthy West Orange Campus, and funding the construction of our new Osceola Campus. One of our goals for this grant is to start an online charter school option in year three of our plan, catering to both students with and without disabilities who are seeking alternative educational options. This federal grant marks a significant milestone for UCP Charter Schools. With these projects, we are not only expanding our reach but also enriching the quality of education and support we offer. We are committed to building brighter futures for our students and their families, and this funding brings us one step closer to achieving our vision. Watch the Channel 6 News video recap to see how this grant will positively impact our schools and community. Together, we are creating a more inclusive, innovative, and inspiring learning environment for all!

Written by: Kaylei Oliver, Marketing Our students' accomplishments shone brightly as caps flew and diplomas were held high! UCP of Central Florida is thrilled to celebrate the recent graduations of our 5th, 6th, and 8th-grade students and those from our high school and adult programs. These ceremonies were not just endings but moments of transition and triumph, marking significant milestones in the lives of our exceptional students. Moreover, several select students were awarded scholarships, a testament to their hard work and dedication. We were honored to award the pristine Brie Wilkins and Casey Kendall Scholarships to those who’ve maintained and upheld the highest of standards. 5th/6th Grade We celebrated the graduations of our 5th and 6th graders in a day filled with immense joy and pride. Our students navigated the challenges of adolescence with grace and determination, emerging as confident individuals ready to take on the challenges of the next steps in their education. We held the honor of awarding recognition to students from our Downtown, Osceola, West Orange, and Pine Hills for passing from the 5th to 6th grade. We look forward to seeing them continue to flourish and grow in the years ahead. 8th Grade For our 8th graders, graduation marked a day of new beginnings. It signified the challenges and tribulations our students steadfastly overcame with astonishing perseverance. With the delight of awarding our Bailes Community Academy 8th-grade students their deserved recognition and praise, we know that they possess the skills to begin blossoming into self-assured individuals ready to take on the challenges of high school. Whether they continue their journey at UCP or their time has come to an end, we know they carry with them the values of determination and compassion instilled during their time at UCP. High School & Adult program The graduation of our high school and adult program students was particularly poignant, symbolizing not only academic achievement but also a significant stride toward greater independence and self-determination. It represented the tireless work completed by our older students to reach this moment. As we recognized this achievement of our TLA students we celebrated their exceptional growth, courage, and perseverance. Our Scholarship Award Winners Brie Wilkins Scholarship Award In honor of the late Brie Wilkins, Daughter of CEO Ilene Wilkins and former UCP Team Member, UCP awarded select students with the Brie Wilkins Scholarship. This scholarship is technology-based, representing Brie’s love for technology and teaching it to children. Each of our UCP campuses awarded one graduate from their 5th/6th-grade classes to receive this award because of their shared love for learning and technology. Recipients had the honor to choose from a week of ID Technology/Robotics/Coding Camp at Rollins College, a 3D printer with accessories, or a Family Membership to the Orlando Science Center. We are outstandingly proud of our scholarship winners and in the memory of Brie Wilkins encourage their love for technology. Brie Wilkins Scholarship Award Recipients Keled Santiago – UCP Downtown Campus Bethany Pentecost – UCP Osceola Campus Josiah Johnson – Bailes Community Academy De’Shaun Robinson – UCP Pine Hills Campus Addison Hibbard – UCP Healthy West Orange Campus Casey Kendall Scholarship Award The Casey Kendall Scholarship award is a memorial scholarship offered by UCP of Central Florida, honoring the memory of a beloved individual by supporting the educational pursuits of selected graduating students. Recipients of this prestigious scholarship receive $500, recognizing their achievements and providing a stepping stone toward their future endeavors. This scholarship not only commemorates Casey Kendall's legacy but also empowers students to pursue their dreams with confidence and determination. The six recipients of this award from our spring graduating classes are believed to be the best individuals for upholding and representing the legacy of Casey Kendall. It is with great excitement that we awarded those with the proper recognition. Casey Kendall Scholarship Award Recipients Jackson Rees - Transitional Learning Academy Eliav Denque – UCP Downtown Campus Jovaniel Colon – UCP Osceola Campus Elias Ovalle Hernandez – UCP Pine Hills Campus Tyrese Swaby – Bailes Community Academy Abigail Hacker - UCP West Orange Campus As we celebrate our graduates and award winners, we are reminded of the incredible journey each student has taken to reach this point. We know that the lessons learned, and the friendships forged will last a lifetime. Whether they continue their journey at UCP or embark on new paths, we eagerly anticipate hearing about the future accomplishments of our graduates. We are confident that they will continue to bring pride to our community!

Written By: Barbie Jones, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Early Childhood Books are not just for toddlers and preschoolers! From those very first days, introducing your baby to the world of reading can spark a lifelong love of literature. But with so many board books, touch-and-feel options, and colorful choices on the shelf, selecting the perfect ones can feel overwhelming. Here's a guide to picking the best books to capture your baby's attention and nurture their early development: Captivating Contrasts and Cuddly Companions (Birth to 3 Months) High-Contrast Heroes: Newborns see in black and white for a while, so high-contrast books with bold patterns and graphic images become their vibrant world. Opt for books with alternating black and white stripes, or splashes of red against white. Soft Discoveries: Cloth books are a perfect introduction into reading. They come in various textures, making them safe for chewing and satisfying little hands with something to explore. Look for crinkly pages or books with soft flaps that make gentle crinkling sounds. Board Book Buddies: Board books are your durable friends. With thick, cardboard pages that can withstand enthusiastic grabbing and teething, they offer bright colors and simple illustrations that will hold your baby's gaze. Engaging Exploration (3 Months and Up) Touch-and-Feel Treasures: As your baby's senses develop, introduce touch-and-feel books. These interactive stories incorporate different textures like fur, felt, or bumpy surfaces, adding a whole new dimension to reading time. Peek-a-Boo with Lift-the-Flap Books: Lift-the-flap books ignite curiosity. Peek-a-boo games under the flaps become a delightful surprise, keeping your baby engaged and wanting more. Pop-Up Magic: Pop-up books bring stories to life with three-dimensional magic. Animals that seem to leap off the page or colorful flowers that bloom as you turn a page can spark wonder and laughter. The Power of Rhyme: Rhyming books are a natural fit for little ears. The rhythmic flow is not only calming but also helps with language development. Look for classic favorites like "Goodnight Moon" by Margaret Wise Brown or "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" by Eric Carle. Choosing for Your Little Bookworm Consider your baby's age and interests. High contrast is key for newborns, while touch-and-feel books might be more interesting when they are older. Durability is a must. Board books can withstand grabbing and chewing. Safety matters. Opt for soft, chewable materials for newborns, and avoid books with tiny parts that could become choking hazards. Make it fun! Sing along to the words, use silly voices for different characters, and let your baby interact with the book by pointing at pictures or lifting flaps. Remember, reading time is a bonding experience. Cuddle up with your baby, let them explore the book at their own pace, and most importantly, have fun together!

Written by Meredith Daniels, Curriculum and Instruction Specialist Starting from the 2022-2023 school year, UCP began training its teachers in the Orton-Gillingham approach to help struggling readers. This approach uses hands-on activities and a step-by-step method to show the connection between letters and sounds. It also explains the reasoning behind these connections, helping students understand better. With the help of the CLSD grant awarded to UCP, we've not only provided comprehensive training for our educators but also facilitated ongoing professional development opportunities throughout the year. Through a collaboration with the Reed Charitable Foundation, UCP has successfully empowered its teachers with essential skills and knowledge in literacy education. Through the training of our staff, we've witnessed remarkable progress in our students. They exhibit increased confidence in their reading abilities and demonstrate a heightened eagerness to learn and engage with books. As evidenced by the rise in high-stakes testing scores, UCP now sees a clear path to developing skilled readers. Ann Mistica, Grade 1 teacher at Seminole, says “Orton-Gillingham's approach transforms learning in my classroom, empowering every student with personalized strategies to unlock their full potential.” As we look ahead to the 2024-2025 school year, UCP is committed to maintaining its partnership with the Reed Charitable Foundation for further training and implementation initiatives. With our ongoing dedication to teacher development, UCP is confident that we will witness continued growth and progress among our students.

Written By April Preston, Director of Behavioral Sciences Picture this: Your child has so much to say, but the words are just out of reach. Whether it's due to communication delays, autism, or any condition that makes traditional talking a challenge, every child has a voice waiting to be heard. Enter the work of pictures and Alternative Augmented Communication (AAC) devices, a colorful bridge between silence and expression. For parents starting this journey, it feels like learning a new language – one that’s surprisingly simple and profound. Starting the journey can be as simple as incorporating picture cards into the daily routine. Begin with pictures or symbols to represent their most loved items or activities – think ‘bed’, ‘blocks’, ‘snacks’, etc. Use these visuals during relevant moments, pointing to them, and encouraging your child to do the same. This visual exchange opens up a new channel of conversation. It’s not just about making requests; it’s about sharing experiences. Imagine the joy in ‘seeing’ your child ask for their favorite toy or saying, ‘goodnight’ through pictures. This method of communication is clear and effective, supported by scientific research. Researchers Xiaoyi Hu and Gabrielle Lee found that using picture exchange systems can increase vocal responses in children. But communication is more than just talking; it’s about connecting. Create a storybook of your day-to-day life using these pictures and symbols. Go through it together, allowing your child to ‘tell’ you about their day, one picture at a time. Remember, patience is your best friend. Every child progresses at their own pace, but every picture shared is a step closer to understanding and being understood. As you both learn to navigate this pictorial language, you are not just teaching your child to communicate, you are giving them the tools to share their world with you.

May is dedicated to raising awareness for speech-language and hearing disorders; National Speech-Language-Hearing Month provides an opportunity to recognize the importance of communication and the professionals who help individuals manage speech-language and hearing challenges. For our students at UCP Charter Schools, this month holds particular significance. Many of our students face speech and hearing disabilities, and this month allows us to celebrate their progress and the hard work of our dedicated therapists and educators. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) dedicated this month to raising awareness for communication and hearing disorders back in 1927. Speech and hearing disorders can impact a person's ability to communicate effectively, affecting their social interactions, academic performance, and overall quality of life. However, with the right support and intervention, individuals can make significant improvements. Nearly 1 in 12 (7.7%) U.S. children ages 3-17 has a disorder related to speech-language according to the National Institute on Deafness and Communication Disorders. At UCP Charter Schools, we are committed to providing our students with the resources they need to thrive. Our speech therapists work tirelessly to develop individualized treatment plans that address each student's unique needs. Through targeted interventions and ongoing support, we aim to help our students achieve their communication goals. This National Speech and Hearing Month, let us celebrate the progress of our students and the dedication of our speech therapists. Together, we can raise awareness about speech and hearing disorders and continue to support those in our community who are affected by them!