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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!

Written By: Meredith Daniels, Curriculum and Instruction Specialist The New World’s Reading Initiative, sponsored by the Florida Department of Education and the University of Florida Lastinger Center, is dedicated to enhancing literacy skills among families through home-based reading activities. As part of this initiative, free books and parent workshops are provided to support this endeavor. UCP has been privileged to collaborate with the NWRI during the 23-24 school year, empowering our parents and enriching their home libraries in the process. The participating schools spearheaded the event, ensuring an enjoyable and engaging evening for all. The success of this event underscores our enthusiasm for ongoing collaboration with the New World’s Reading Initiative. We look forward to bringing this valuable event to UCP in the 2024-2025 school year.

At UCP Charter Schools, we aim to motivate and challenge our students to think innovatively and critically, instilling in them the belief that learning is a fulfilling and rewarding experience. We are committed to creating an environment where our students feel motivated to learn and thrive. We challenge our students to think in new and interesting ways. We prioritize teaching our students that learning can be fun and empowering. We have an outstanding group of students at UCP with diverse accomplishments, and a few of our students have made some exceptionally bright sparks that we would like to highlight. Mia Our first bright spark is Mia, an 8th grader whose favorite subject is history. Mia is not a fan of science, but her favorite project was a science experiment where she had the chance to mix baking soda and vinegar, making an explosion and teaching her all about chemical reactions. When she grows up Mia wants to be either an actor or an FBI Agent, but she still needs time to figure it out. Mia's favorite thing about UCP is that she feels safe; when she comes to UCP she feels safer than other schools she has been to. The kids and teachers create an environment where Mia can thrive and never feel scared. Jackson & Quincy Jackson and Quincy are a pair of twins in 8th grade at UCP. Jackson and Quincy enjoy sports and spending time with their dad outside of school. Quincy's' love of sports is what makes him want to be a basketball player when he grows up. Jackson doesn't know what he wants to be, but he enjoys peer-counseling where he helps with the younger kids. The boys agreed that the things they like the most about UCP are that they can be at school together and Quincy has the proper therapy and help available for his disability. Willow One of our 5th grade students, Willow, has excelled in her classes. Willow enjoys reading both in and out of school, and her top goal is to get an A plus in anything math-related. Willow loves the fact that at UCP her teachers are ready to help her with her work and give her the time and extra help to better understand things she doesn’t get. At her old school, the teachers were not as understanding if Willow did not fully grasp something, but her UCP teachers go to any lengths to make sure Willow succeeds and can help her reach her A-plus goal. Vanessa Vanessa is one of our 5th-grade bright sparks. When Vanessa first got to school, she thought she would have a tough time learning all the new math techniques that come with a 5th-grade curriculum, but with the help of her teachers, math has now become her favorite subject. Vanessa's teachers have helped her by teaching her some fun memorization tricks to ace all her schoolwork. The best thing about UCP, in Vanessa’s opinion, is how accepting it is. She likes that no matter what a kid looks like or what disability they have, teachers and students treat everyone equally. We are excited to celebrate our student's bright sparks at UCP. Watch all of their full interviews HERE.

Written by: Dr. Kristy Bautista-Harris Fine motor skills are fundamental for a child’s independence and participation in daily activities. From holding a pencil to brushing their hair, fine motor skills are essential for the countless tasks throughout the day. Occupational therapists play a key role in supporting the development of fine motor skills, especially when delays occur due to varying factors. Occupational Therapists often incorporate sensory-based activities to enhance proprioception, tactile discrimination, and motor planning, which are essential components of fine motor skills. Proprioception refers to the body's awareness of its position in space, while tactile discrimination is the ability to differentiate between different textures and objects. Motor planning involves the ability to plan and execute movements. Sensory-based activities can include: Proprioceptive activities like pushing, pulling, or carrying heavy objects to improve body awareness. Tactile activities such as exploring different textures with hands or feet to enhance sensory perception. Motor planning activities like completing puzzles or building blocks to improve planning and execution skills. Occupational therapists are experts in identifying and addressing delays in fine motor skills. Whether the delay is due to developmental factors, a specific diagnosis, injury, or illness, occupational therapists can provide tailored interventions to support your child's development. Fine Motor Skills development is an ever-changing process that begins at birth and evolves throughout life. They are crucial for a person's overall independence and participation in the world. Occupational Therapists are experts in the development of fine motor skills and by working with them, they can offer assistance and intervention when these skills are delayed due to development, diagnosis, injury, or illness throughout the lifespan Remember, every child develops at their own pace, so it's important to consult with professionals if you have concerns about your child's fine motor skills development

Written by: April Preston, Director of Behavior Services Parenting is a journey filled with challenges; and navigating through episodes of screaming, crying, and throwing things can feel like trying to sail through stormy seas. Our children often express frustration, fear, or unmet needs by engaging in these behaviors, and understanding this, is the first step toward calming the waters.  Addressing these behaviors with patience and empathy can transform tumultuous moments into opportunities for growth and learning for both parents and children. The key to managing these challenging behaviors lies in proactive strategies and consistent communication. Start by setting clear, understandable boundaries and expectations for self-calming behavior when upset. Children thrive within structured environments where they know what is expected of them. Practicing these boundaries and expectations of calm behavior in the presence of frustration, fear, and unmet needs can set children up for success. When rules are broken, respond with a neutral calm voice and provide natural consequences rather than punitive measures. In moments of calm, engage in open dialogue with your child about their feelings and frustrations. Teach them healthy ways to express their emotions, such as using words to describe their feelings, taking deep breaths, or finding a physical outlet like squeezing a stress ball. Pictures, books, and songs about emotions can be helpful for children with emerging speaking skills. Recognition and praise for positive behavior go a long way in reinforcing the behavior you want to see. When your child does tell you how upset they are without screaming or crying, make a big deal with a shout-out, praise, or high-five. Patience, consistency, and practicing self-calming behaviors can significantly reduce instances of challenging emotional behavior.

Written by: Abigail Raines, Speech Language Pathologist Summer break is quickly approaching! But just because school is out for summer doesn’t mean reading should stop! Did you know that research shows students start losing reading skills the first week they are out of school during summer? Research also shows that a child can lose up to 3 months of reading skills just during summer break! Here are some tips to keep your child excited about reading all summer long! 1. Visit your local library Libraries have huge selections of children’s books! Take a trip to the library and let your child pick out the books they are interested in. Children are more likely to read if the book is appealing to them. Libraries also have fun and free or inexpensive summer reading programs for children of all ages! 2. Read with your child! No matter your child’s age, it is important to schedule a time to read with your child during the day. For younger children, you can read to them and engage them in conversation about the pictures you see. For children developing reading skills, you can take turns reading the pages of a book. First, you read a page, then allow your child to read a page. For older children, read the same book as them and talk about the book throughout the day. Even 10-15 minutes of reading with your child will make a difference! 3. Set some goals and make it fun! Together you and your child can create reading goals you want to accomplish this summer. This can be a certain number of pages to be read each week or even a certain number of books to read over the summer. Be sure to plan a fun celebration for when your child accomplishes the goal! These tips can help keep reading fun and help your child maintain the skills they worked hard to gain during the school year. Are you interested in receiving up to 10 free books for your child? Check out the New Worlds Reading website and sign up to see if your child is eligible to receive free books this summer! https://www.newworldsreading.com/fl/en/home.html

Written By: Trisha Jack, Math and STEM Curriculum Specialist Our children are natural explorers, filled with curiosity about the world around them. As parents, we have the opportunity to nurture this innate curiosity and cultivate a lifelong love of math and science. Through these simple yet effective ways, we can create a foundation for our children to develop critical thinking skills and a deep appreciation for the universe's many wonders. 1. Transform Everyday Moments into Learning Adventures: Whether you're cooking in the kitchen or playing in the backyard, engage your child's curiosity by asking questions that involve basic math and science concepts. How many ingredients are in the recipe? Why do bubbles pop? These questions spark curiosity and encourage problem-solving skills while turning everyday moments into exciting learning opportunities! 2. Embrace the Power of Play: Play is the language of childhood, and it's through play that children often unknowingly engage in mathematical and scientific thinking. Board games, building blocks, and puzzles not only enhance cognitive skills but also provide an enjoyable way for children to experiment, discover patterns, and develop problem-solving abilities. 3. Create a Science-Friendly Environment: Establish a mini science lab at home by allowing your child to explore and experiment. Provide simple materials like water, containers, and measuring cups. Let them mix, pour, and observe. Encourage questions. These hands-on experiences lay the foundation for a solid understanding of scientific principles. 4. Integrate Math and Science into Storytime: Choose books that incorporate mathematical and scientific themes. Whether it's counting the animals on the farm or exploring the life cycle of a butterfly, literature can make abstract concepts tangible and relatable. Reading together creates bonding moments while reinforcing essential skills. 5. Connect Learning to Real-World Experiences: Seize everyday opportunities to demonstrate how math and science are applicable in the real world. Whether it's reading ingredients for a recipe, counting change during a shopping trip, or exploring nature on a walk, these instances effectively link abstract concepts to real-world applications. Ultimately, kids are naturally curious. When supported, this curiosity can turn into a genuine love for math and science. By adding exploration, play, and hands-on learning to daily activities, parents can nurture a lasting interest in these subjects. So, join your little ones on this exciting journey and see how their curiosity becomes a lifelong passion for understanding the world.

Written By: Wendy Thomson, Director of Family & Child Support Services Some of the early signs that spring is approaching are the shifting temperatures, increasing sunlight, and the budding blooms that often trigger allergies. This season brings a sense of turnover and renewal, with longer days prompting people to venture out and embrace the changing weather. The days feel longer, and people start to venture out to enjoy the changing spring weather. As this period of new growth unfolds, it's an ideal time to focus on our mental health and consider how we can transition along with nature into a revitalized version of ourselves. It's a time to refresh our minds and bodies. Here are a few tips to try as we blossom into spring: Consider increasing your time outdoors to soak up sunlight, the richest source of Vitamin D. In the U.S., 4 out of 10 people are deficient in this crucial vitamin due to sunscreen use and indoor jobs, leading to various health issues. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with bone pain and fractures, muscle weakness, asthma in children, and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Declutter your space to improve both your living environment and mental well-being. Research shows that people who live in clutter have higher levels of anxiety and depression. Start small by cleaning out a junk drawer, then move to the closet, before you know it you will find yourself enjoying the process and it will greatly boost your feelings of accomplishment and maybe even your wallet if you sell or donate items. Make sure to make time for exercise. Combining cleaning with outdoor walking will provide movement and exposure to sunlight, which is essential for your body to get Vitamin D. Making small changes can have a positive impact on your mental health almost instantly. Happy Spring!