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Written By: April Preston, Director of Behavior Services Let’s be real, parenting is like being on a rollercoaster where the highs are super high and the lows…well, they’re there too. What if we told you there’s a secret ingredient to keep the ride more on the high? Enter positive reinforcement! Think of it as the high-five for the good stuff your kids do. It’s about spotting those moments when they’re being awesome and giving them a “shout-out” for it. This isn’t about bribing them with treats or toys when they tie their shoes; it is about noticing and praising the effort, the kindness, and the teamwork. So, how do you start sprinkling this magic dust at home? Great question, I would love to tell you. Lay down the ground rules of what you expect -nothing fancy, just the basics like using kind words, sharing with siblings, or picking up after playing. Then when they hit the mark, make a big deal out of it. “I love the way you shared your toy with your brother!”. It shows them exactly what they did right and makes them want to do it again. You can add rewards to your praise, such as picking a family night movie, or an extra reading of a favorite book before bed. But the goal is to make sure the praise and/or reward makes them feel special. One way to make positive reinforcement at home easy is to make it a game. Get everyone in the family involved catching each other being great and shouting it out. It’s like building a little cheer squad in your own home, where everyone feels seen and valued for the good they do. Create a home vibe where everyone feels supported and appreciated. Positive reinforcement isn’t just a parenting strategy; it’s a way to build a family culture where love and recognition are part of the daily routine. Now get out there and start your cheer squad!

UCP students recently embarked on a journey filled with scientific experiments, hypotheses, and observations through UCP’s 1st Annual Science Fair held on February 15, 2024. From Kindergarten to 12th grade, students from every campus showcased their scientific prowess, presenting judges with a diverse range of projects, from erupting volcanoes to homemade batteries, demonstrating their creativity and passion for science. These science fairs offer numerous benefits for students. They provided a hands-on learning experience, featuring interactive exhibits and demonstrations that allowed students to actively engage with scientific concepts, leading to a deeper understanding of the material. By physically interacting with experiments and projects, students could see firsthand how scientific principles apply in real-world scenarios. Furthermore, science fairs encouraged students to think critically and analytically as they designed experiments, collected data, and drew conclusions. This process helped develop problem-solving skills that are valuable in both academic and real-world settings. The fairs also fostered creativity, as students produced ideas for their projects. This creativity provided a platform for students to explore topics that interested them, encouraging a love for learning and discovery. Additionally, science fairs often involve teamwork, helping students develop important social and teamwork skills. Our K-2 students collaborated on class projects, while 3rd-12th graders presented individual endeavors. The top three winners from each grade band advanced to the Consortium Science Fair on March 6, 2024, creating a platform for broader collaboration and competition. Judges were notably impressed by the depth of research and creativity, emphasizing the significance of fostering curiosity and exploration. Congratulations to all participants for their dedication and hard work, highlighting the bright future of our young scientists. We eagerly anticipate their continued growth and success in the world of science as we continue to grow our tradition of campus-wide science fairs. Science Fair Winners K-2 1st place - Celeste Denque – DT - “Homemade Slime” 2nd place - Alex Araya – PH - “Can you tell the difference between coins when they drop with your eyes closed?” 3rd place - Kemoy Phillips - PH “How does color travel through materials? 3rd -5th 1st place - Jerriel Torres Villegas - DT - “Lemon Battery” 2nd place - Eliav Denque - DT - “Crunchy Cereal” 3rd place - Mary Zamoras - WO - “Which brand of Chocolate melts the fastest in the sun?” 6th - 8th 1st place - Amelia Surgick - BCA - Does it actually kill 99% of bacteria? 2nd place - Israel Montanez - WO “Moldy Bread Experiment” 3rd place - Rasheed Burke - TLA “Flying a craft stick drone” 9th- 12th 1st place - Pedro Rivera - TLA - “Breathless Bromothymol” 2nd place - Ava Cummings - TLA - “Chocolate Experiment” 3rd place - Lixani Calderan - TLA - “ Humpty Dumpty”

The quest for effective teaching methodologies is relentless in the dynamic realm of education, particularly in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Intending to foster a more engaging and comprehensive learning environment, educators are continuously exploring new strategies. This guide from UCP Charter Schools is not just about adapting to the evolving educational landscape but also about nurturing the innovators of tomorrow. Embracing the Right Technological and Educational Resources Selecting the most appropriate educational tools is paramount. This choice should align with your educational objectives and encompass a range of materials from textbooks to cutting-edge software and interactive applications. The goal is to ensure that these resources resonate with your teaching strategies, thus enhancing the overall learning experience. Utilizing the Digital World to Enrich STEM Education Incorporating digital resources into STEM education is not just a convenience; it's a necessity in the modern learning environment. These resources, ranging from instructional videos to specialized educational platforms, offer extensive learning opportunities. They supplement traditional classroom instruction, providing students with an enriched and diverse educational experience. Streamlining Education with Digital Documentation In the current digital era, transitioning lesson plans and educational documents into digital formats is wise. PDFs are secure and keep consistent formatting no matter the operating system or device, so you don’t have to worry about compatibility issues. Simply use a drag-and-drop PDF tool for fast conversions and sharing. Such a transition enhances the efficiency of managing educational materials and aligns seamlessly with the technological advancements of today's educational landscape. Cultivating Understanding Through Experiential Learning Experiential learning plays a crucial role in STEM education. Abstract concepts become tangible by engaging students in practical activities like conducting experiments, building prototypes, and participating in field trips. This approach not only deepens understanding but also ensures that these experiences are ingrained in the students' memories. Simulations for Comprehending Complex Concepts Simulations and models are key to unraveling the complexities of STEM concepts. These interactive tools aid in fostering a more profound comprehension among students. They motivate learners to be active participants in their education journey. This results in a learning process that is both more dynamic and engaging. Promoting Teamwork for Enhanced Learning Group projects and collaborative activities are pivotal in cultivating student teamwork. This approach enhances comprehension and actively engages learners in the educational process. Additionally, it’s crucial for developing vital skills such as problem-solving and cooperation, which are fundamental in the professional realm. Monitoring and Adapting to Enhance Student Engagement Continuous assessment of student engagement and progress is vital in STEM education. Implementing various evaluation methods, including formative assessments and feedback mechanisms, helps refine teaching strategies. This ongoing process ensures the educational approach remains effective and responsive to the needs of the students. Enhancing STEM education requires a multifaceted approach, embracing everything from the judicious selection of educational tools to incorporating digital resources and hands-on activities. Educators can significantly impact the STEM learning environment by fostering collaboration, digitizing educational materials, and pursuing advanced academic qualifications. Continuous assessment and adaptation of teaching strategies ensure that the educational journey is not only compelling but also resonant with the needs of the students. As educators, embracing these strategies is about more than teaching; it's about preparing a generation of learners equipped to tackle tomorrow's challenges with confidence and competence. UCP Charter Schools offer an inclusive and immersive educational experience for students of all abilities. Discover more about their programs and opportunities for enrollment.

Written By Nicole Rice the Curriculum & Instruction Specialist-Autism Visual schedules are a powerful tool in the lives of individuals with Autism. They provide a structured visual outline of daily activities to help ease transitions throughout the day. By creating a clear, visual roadmap of the day's activities, individuals with autism can better understand what to expect and prepare themselves mentally for each transition. Visual schedules offer a tangible way to organize tasks and activities, helping individuals with autism feel more in control. These schedules can take many forms, from simple picture cards to detailed calendars, depending on the individual's needs. When visual schedules are used at home, they create a supportive and predictable environment for your child. By offering a clear outline of the day’s events, you can reduce anxiety and meltdowns. To implement this tool, start by identifying your child’s daily routines and listing out everything from the moment they wake up to bedtime procedures. Be sure to include activities that your child enjoys to keep them motivated. Here is an example: Once you have created your schedule, use visuals that resonate with your child, like real-life pictures or symbols for each activity to keep them engaged. Choosing the right schedule can make a monumental difference in how your child interacts and can lead to a smoother, more peaceful day for everyone involved. By using visual schedules at home, you provide a clear structure for daily life that helps your child understand what to expect and when to expect it. Whether it's moving from breakfast to school, or from playtime to bedtime, visual schedules serve as steadfast companions, guiding individuals through the ebb and flow of daily life. By providing a visual roadmap of the day's activities, visual schedules reduce anxiety, improve independence, and create a more structured environment for individuals with autism to thrive.

Written by Dr. Sarah Valley, Doctor of Physical Therapy Spring break is almost here meaning it’s nearly time for some well-deserved rest and fun! However, keeping your kids entertained can be quite a challenge. With the temptation of screens and the constant "I'm bored" complaints, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But don't worry, because in Florida, there are plenty of exciting outdoor activities that can keep your kids active and happy. Here are some fun ideas to keep you entertained over the break: Take advantage of the trails: Cady Way trail, Seminole trail, and Lake Eola Loop are some examples of paved scenic trails for great for biking, walking, skating, and scootering. A fun challenge is to see if you can identify any wildlife that you encounter. For more ideas of where to go, AllTrails.com allows you to filter your search to include paved trails, dog-friendly, etc. If you or someone you know has mobility needs, Seminole State Forest has an all-terrain wheelchair that you can rent to use on their trail with a reservation. Go Geocaching: It’s like a real-life treasure hunt! You use GPS coordinates through your cellphone or a GPS unit to lead yourself to your hidden “cache” treasure. In some of the caches you may find a few riches but, be sure that if you take something you leave something for the next explorer to find! Check out local playgrounds: You might be surprised to find that several of them have splash pads available for free or at low cost. The best part is that each playground offers different amenities and structures to explore from swings to ziplines, ensuring your kids never get bored! Just be sure to bring water bottles, as not all playgrounds have water fountains available. Get out on the water: We have springs all over Central Florida and most offer kayak and canoe rentals. Whether you want to work on your rowing skills or relax and enjoy the sun, this is a great way to spend the day on the water! You can even paddle upstream and float back down to where you started, like a lazy river. A few parks including Wekiva State Park, Silver Springs State Park, Ichetucknee State Park, and Lake Griffin State Park, offer wheelchair-accessible options if needed. Enjoy the sandy beaches: Want to feel the sand between your toes? Florida is home to multiple beautiful beaches with so much to offer. The more popular ones tend to be pretty crowded during the break, but don't let that deter you. Some beaches offer free wheelchair rentals  (in exchange for your keys or ID), with wheelchairs that are made to move on the sand. The wheelchairs are on a first come, first served basis so make sure you arrive early. If you would rather stay closer to home, there are a couple of screen-free options to keep your kids engaged. You can play board or card games which are great ways for kids to practice turn-taking, strategizing, and sportsmanship. Or you can cook a meal together where they can work on fine motor skills, math, and reading. You can turn on some music and have a dance party where you’re exposed to different musical choices, and you can show off your moves. You just might find a new routine to enjoy for the next break. Check with your healthcare provider before attempting certain activities!

At UCP Charter Schools, we are committed to our belief that the arts play a pivotal role in reinforcing and enriching the learning experience for every student. Across all our campuses, we prioritize arts integration as a cornerstone of our educational approach. Within the vibrant tapestry of our UCP community, a promising 2nd-grade artist, Nalani, has recently stolen the show. Nalani, affectionately known as Lani to her friends and teachers, is a standout student at our UCP Healthy West Orange Campus. Renowned for her exceptional intellect and unwavering determination, she approaches her studies with a rare diligence that sets her apart. Nalani's commitment to learning is evident in her impressive academic journey, with a notable rising trend in her test scores since the beginning of the year, observed by her teacher, Ms. Clifford. In Ms. Clifford's eyes, there is no limit to Nalani's potential, and she passionately believes that the only direction for Nalani is up. Nalani's recent success in the Angels for Kids Foundation's art scholarship contest exemplifies the impact of arts integration in our curriculum. Angels for Kids is a non-profit, privately funded organization that improves the lives of children in need under 16. Through their yearly scholarship, where students entered a Christmas card design, Nalani won first place and received one hundred dollars. Her card was also published through Shutterfly. This achievement not only highlights Nalani's exceptional artistic talent but also reinforces our commitment to nurturing such talents within our student body. Regardless of the subject matter, Nalani consistently presents her best efforts in her work, showcasing her achievements with a 'humble smile of satisfaction.' This unique blend of dedication and modesty not only defines Nalani's academic approach but also serves as an inspiration to her peers and a source of pride for our UCP community.

Diving into the Marvels of STEM Exploration at UCP! At UCP, our STEM Saturday events are more than just gatherings; they are gateways for young minds to explore the thrilling realms of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. With a mission to spark curiosity, foster creativity, and ignite passion for STEM fields among students, our recent events on January 20 at the Pine Hills campus and January 29 at the Downtown campus were nothing short of a resounding success. Assisting Science Fair Projects: A highlight of these events was our ability to support students participating in the Science Fair, offering guidance and assistance with their captivating science projects. Community Collaboration: We brought together a dynamic mix of students, educators, professionals, and UCF volunteers, creating an atmosphere filled with interactive activities and captivating demonstrations. Hands-On Exploration: Students were immersed in hands-on activities curated to become their science fair projects, with a choice of 20 different experiments! Enthusiastic mentors and experts guided participants, fostering critical thinking and encouraging questions. Excitement Throughout the Day: The sense of excitement and encouragement reverberated as students collaborated, shared ideas, and learned from one another throughout the day. 📅 Mark Your Calendars! Next STEM Saturday Open to all students, Kindergarten and up. 💕 Don't miss out—complete the form for more information. Pine Hills Osceola Downtown BCA West Orange Seminole Let's continue to fuel the passion for STEM and inspire the next generation of innovators!

Written By: Lacey Conner of Family Wellness Pro As parents, we are always on the hunt for new ways to keep our children entertained and educated – especially when confined indoors! Whether it's a rainy day or a quiet weekend at home, having a roster of engaging activities can be a real lifesaver. From board games that take us back to childhood to crafts that stir creativity, there are numerous ways to turn indoor time into a fun learning adventure. Today, UCP Charter Schools shares some fun ideas to get you started. Family Time with Board Games Board games are more than just a fun pastime; they are a way to engage young minds in strategic thinking. Traditional games like chess provide an entertaining introduction to strategy. On the other hand, international classics like Scrabble or Monopoly can help kids enhance their vocabulary and mathematical skills. Spending an afternoon huddled around the game board brings the family together and sparks healthy competition and laughter. Make Cards to Show Appreciation Gratitude is one of the best traits you can teach your children, and a great place to begin is by using this free online card maker to help them show appreciation for their grandparents, teachers, or even their friends. There are plenty of templates they can use and customize as desired. This is also a fantastic way to develop their creativity and express themselves! Puzzling Out the Fun Puzzles offer a fantastic way to engage children indoors. They can improve kids' cognitive abilities, hand-eye coordination, and patience while providing them with a sense of accomplishment once completed. Plus, it is a beautiful way for children to recognize and appreciate the beauty of their homeland. Moreover, these puzzles, steeped in iconic imagery, can spur conversations about our environment, geography, and iconic landmarks. A Dose of Creativity Arts and crafts offer a colorful way for children to express their creativity. Activities such as painting a sunset, crafting kangaroos from clay, or creating beautiful aboriginal dot paintings provide a creative outlet and teach them about their culture. It's an engaging way to introduce them to the rich tapestry of our nation's artistry and indigenous heritage. Moreover, these creative pursuits can help children develop a deeper appreciation for the diverse artistic traditions that make the world so vibrant and unique. Encourage Good Posture Many children are self-conscious about their height. To help with this, you could encourage your child to stand (or sit) up straight, since good posture gives the appearance of being taller by straightening the spine. It is also a healthy habit, encouraging better breathing, healthier joints, and even reduced headaches. You can make a fun game out of it by seeing who can balance a book on their head the longest. Work on a Home Repair Project Together Another great way to spend time with your kids while also being productive and teaching them vital lessons is by working on a kid-friendly home repair project together, whether that’s changing the furnace filter, fixing a window screen, or demineralizing a faucet. This lays a great foundation for stewardship and responsibility. A quick review of the local housing market can help drive home the point that well-maintained homes are more pleasant to live in – and more valuable! Starting a Business Another excellent way to help prepare your children for the real world is by showing them the ins and outs of entrepreneurship, perhaps by starting a business! Some states have an LLC age requirement but others – namely California, Delaware, Nevada, and Wyoming – do not. By going over the benefits of an LLC (which include liability protection and tax incentives), as well as the elements of a business plan and a marketing campaign, you can help prepare them for the business world! Learning Made Fun For parents working from home, educational YouTube videos can be a lifeline. Channels like "National Geographic Kids" and "Crash Course Kids" provide engaging content that spans various subjects, from science to geography. This digital learning experience, paired with the familiarity of the YouTube platform, can make education entertaining and accessible for children. Plus, it allows children to learn at their own pace, rewinding and re-watching as needed, ensuring they truly grasp the concepts presented. Singing to the Beats A karaoke night, belting out favorite tunes, or popular hits can turn a regular evening into a family fiesta. It is a fun way to boost children's confidence, improve their memory and listening skills, and introduce them to our rich musical history. It's all about letting loose and enjoying the music together as a family. Not to mention, it's a fantastic opportunity to showcase the world’s diverse music scene, spanning various genres and decades. Building the Future with Aussie Innovations STEM-related activities can instill a love for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in children. Conducting simple experiments, playing coding games, or building a mini Sydney Harbor Bridge from toothpicks and marshmallows can transform learning into an exciting adventure. It's a glimpse into the world of possibilities that STEM offers, inspiring future innovators. Additionally, these activities can help children understand how STEM plays a crucial role in our everyday lives, from the buildings we live in, to the technology we use. Indoor activities blend fun and learning, fostering cognitive development and creativity in children. Parents working from home can keep young people engaged and help them feel more connected to their roots through board games, making cards, starting a business, helping with home repairs, puzzles, arts and crafts, reading, YouTube videos, karaoke nights, and STEM-related activities. Seize these opportunities to turn every indoor day into a fun-filled adventure! For more information about UCP of Central Florida, visit www.ucpcfl.org

Written by: Wendy Thomson Director of Family & Child Support Services With Valentine's Day around the corner, February is known as The Relationship Month. For kids, it’s candy and hearts but for adults, it can get complicated. As parents, your role in fostering positive and healthy connections sets the foundation for your children's future relationships. Creating and maintaining healthy relationships is a crucial aspect of life. Let’s explore some ways to know if you are in a healthy personal relationship: 1. Trust: Trust is the foundation of a healthy relationship. Be dependable, keep your promises, and maintain open and honest communication. Trust grows over time through consistent and honest behavior which will build the emotional safety needed in a healthy relationship. 2. Conflict Resolution: Conflicts are inevitable in any relationship, but how they are handled makes all the difference. Model healthy conflict resolution by calmly discussing disagreements and finding compromises. Approach disagreements with a solution-oriented mindset. Focus on the issue at hand, avoid blaming, and work together to find compromises that benefit both parties. 3. Appreciation: Show gratitude for the little things not just big acts. Regularly express appreciation for your partner and the positive aspects of your relationship. Gratitude fosters a positive atmosphere and reinforces the value you place on each other. 4. Communication: Communication is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship. Encouraging open and honest communication within your relationships creates a safe place where everyone can feel fully understood and heard. When your partner is speaking, give them your full attention. Avoid interrupting and genuinely try to understand their point of view. Reflecting on what they have said before responding shows that you value their input. 5. Empathy: Empathy helps create supportive and compassionate connections. Acknowledge and validate your partner's feelings and demonstrate that you care about their experiences. People need emotional support during both challenging and joyous times. You don't have to solve the problem, just be there to listen and offer support. 6. Respect & Boundaries: Establishing and respecting boundaries is essential for maintaining healthy relationships. Value your partner's time and feelings by really listening to what they need and not forcing your opinion. Active respect goes beyond a passive acknowledgment of someone's worth; it involves actively demonstrating consideration and esteem for the other person. 7. Flexibility: Relationships evolve, and individuals grow. Embrace change and adapt to the evolving dynamics of your relationship. Recognize that you both bring different perspectives, experiences, and strengths to the relationship. Celebrate and learn from these differences rather than seeing them as obstacles. 8. Foster Independence: While a strong connection is important, it's equally crucial to maintain individual identities and interests. Maintain a sense of independence by taking care of yourself physically, emotionally, and mentally. Everyone needs space to pursue personal interests and maintain a sense of individuality. Remember that healthy relationships require ongoing effort and commitment from both parties. By incorporating these tips into your approach to relationships, you can contribute to the development of strong, fulfilling connections with others. If you are in a relationship that is unsafe and you want a safe, free, confidential space to talk it through, please reach out to your campus Clinical Counselors. We are here to help your child and family find health and happiness. Your physical and emotional safety always comes first, and we are here to support you through any challenges you may have.

Written By: Dr. Irma J. Rosa Cains We live in a remarkably busy world with busy agendas. We all feel stress, even our children; however, they do not always know how to express it. Sometimes stress is manifested in poor sleep patterns, meltdowns, behavior changes, and physical symptoms. It is especially important we do not overlook signs of stress in our children and develop outlets for them to relieve their stress. Physical activity is one of the strategies used to address tension and anxiety positively. So, Let's MOVE! First Step: Don’t set unattainable expectations. You don’t need to devote extended periods of time to exercise with your children. It is recommended for children to have a minimum of 60 minutes of physical activity per day. You can break that into 2 30-minute sessions, 4 15-minute sessions, 6 -10-minute sessions, or whatever “distribution” of time works for you and your child. Second Step: Find an activity that your child enjoys. Go outside! Some fun activities are: Jumping Hula Hooping Walking Biking Swimming Yoga Third Step:  Use physical activity as a bonding time with your child. Be present! Put your phone or tablet away and interact with your child. Make eye contact. Take turns. Have Fun. Be Creative. You or your child can make a fun game out of any physical activity. Challenge your child to a hula hoop contest and see who can hula hoop the longest while standing like a flamingo Fourth Step: Have FUN! Allow yourself to enjoy those precious moments together. Be silly! Get Creative. Laughter is considered an effective relaxation technique.

Article Written By: Emily Grahams of Mighty Moms When it comes to parenting, we have the opportunity to shape future leaders through our actions and guidance. This article delves into approaches needed to help nurture leadership capabilities in children. As architects of the next generation, parents are equipped to lay the foundation for strong leadership skills early in their children's lives. Teach Them About the Initiative Encouraging children to take initiative and make decisions is crucial to nurturing their leadership potential. Allowing them to experience both successes and setbacks contributes significantly to their growth and self-confidence. When children have the autonomy to make choices, they develop a sense of responsibility for their actions and develop critical thinking skills that are vital for leadership. Lead by Example Actions speak louder than words. Parents who exemplify leadership qualities themselves have a profound impact on their children's development. Parents, regardless of their educational background, can instill the values of ambition and the continuous pursuit of knowledge in their children by demonstrating it in their own lives. Some ways to show these values are by encouraging problem-solving, setting realistic goals, celebrating effort, embracing failure, and sharing personal stories of overcoming challenges. Children learn from observing their parents, so the best way to shape your children is for parents to embody the qualities they wish to instill. The Importance of Goal Setting Teaching children to establish clear, achievable goals is a fundamental aspect of fostering leadership skills. This process not only cultivates focus and determination but also instills a sense of accomplishment and the ability to strategize for success. Things such as involving the whole family in setting achievable goals or discussing the why of those goals can help children set and work toward their goals and allow parents to empower their children with drive and persistence. Cooperation and Teamwork Leadership often involves working within a team and teaching children the value of effective teamwork is fundamental. Cooperative experiences enhance their ability to communicate, empathize, and work alongside others toward common goals. By involving children in group activities, parents provide them with valuable lessons in collaboration, conflict resolution, and understanding diverse perspectives – all essential leadership skills. Integrity Through Responsibility and Accountability Integrity, a quality that can constructed from an early age, is an essential quality of a leader. It is a steadfast pillar that remains unwavering. By imparting a sense of responsibility and accountability, parents set the foundation upon which integrity is built. By doing things such as encouraging open dialogue, engaging in conversations about moral and ethical dilemmas, and clearly defining and communicating the family's core values parents can play a vital role in shaping their children's character and instilling a strong sense of integrity that will guide them throughout their lives. As children grasp the significance of taking ownership of their actions and begin comprehending the repercussions of their decisions, they begin developing the ethical values that are essential for leaders to earn trust and respect. Decisive Minds: Encouraging Independent Thinking Leaders often need to make important decisions and encouraging independent thinking in children is essential for preparing them for leadership roles. Parents can support their children when making decisions by encouraging them to weigh their options to make informed decisions. This not only reinforces their critical thinking skills but also boosts their confidence in their ability to make choices. Encouraging children to think independently from an early age empowers them to become effective decision-makers as they grow. The journey of parenting is filled with opportunities to guide children towards becoming influential leaders. By focusing on these areas, fostering autonomy, setting a positive example, encouraging goal setting, etc., parents can provide their children with the tools and experiences necessary to develop the skills and character of a leader. This commitment to cultivating leadership qualities from an early age promises a generation of empowered individuals ready to take on the challenges and opportunities of the future. UCP of Central Florida is dedicated to empowering children with disabilities. Learn more about our events, programs, and services.

The choices for students, particularly for students with unique learning needs, have grown exponentially over the past decade. Florida is the nation's leader in providing students and their families with educational freedom, earning the number one in the nation ranking for the Center for Education Reform's Parent Power Index. Charter Schools and various Scholarship Voucher programs allow parents to select an option that best meets the unique needs of their child. Each option is different and there are pros/cons to consider for each one. Here is some basic information on each option as well as considerations: Charter Schools Charter Schools are non-profit agencies operating an innovative public school. There are over 726 charter schools located throughout Florida educating over 382,000 students. Charter Schools have accountability similar to other public schools (i.e. students take state testing, the school has performance goals, teachers are required to be certified, all staff are required to pass background screenings, etc.). There are different kinds of charter schools, including schools specifically focused on a type of disability (i.e. autism) as well as unique approaches (i.e. focus on arts/STEM). Tuition is 100% free for any child from Kindergarten – 12th grade (and some charter schools also accept students with an IEP/IFSP ages 12 months – PreK). You have to apply for admission to a charter school, and there is usually only a certain number of slots available. If more students than slots are available, then the charter school conducts a random lottery. Recent legislation allowed a child to attend any charter school regardless of where you live (as space allows). All services on a student's Individual Education Plan (i.e. therapy) are required to be provided. Each School District website will list the charter schools in that district. For more information: Private Schools There are many private schools throughout Central Florida, including some that focus on different kinds of disabilities using various approaches/service models, which allow parents a plethora of choices. Private schools are independent schools and are not monitored by the state and also not mandated by law to follow/provide the services from a child’s Individual Education Plan (IEP) such as therapy services. They are not required to follow any specific regulations regarding teacher certification (i.e. teachers are not required to have a degree/certification, undergo background checks, etc.) Florida supports parent's choice to attend a private school by providing opportunities to apply for and use various scholarships/vouchers. Please note - to use any of these scholarships – the child must withdraw from public school, which means the school district/school is no longer required to provide the student with free appropriate public education or provide any services (i.e., therapy). You cannot be enrolled in a public school (including a charter school) and use any of these scholarship programs. There is a cap on the number of scholarships available to be funded, and usually, you need to apply/get accepted before the beginning of the school year. The amount of the scholarship reflects the amount the student would have received in the public school to which the student is assigned. The scholarship may not cover the full costs of private school. Parents are responsible for any tuition or fees above the scholarship amount. Family Empowerment Scholarship (FES) The Family Empowerment Scholarship Program was established in 2019 by the Florida legislature. There are two FES programs – Education Options and Students with Unique Abilities. Educational Options Scholarship (FES-EO) The parent of a student may apply for and receive from the state a scholarship if the student is a Florida resident and is eligible to enroll in kindergarten through grade 12 in a public school in this state. Priority is given first to students whose household income level does not exceed 185% of the federal poverty level or who is in foster care or out-of-home care, then to students whose household income level exceeds 185% of the federal poverty level but does not exceed 400%. Scholarship to be used for tuition/fees for private school. The average amount of scholarship is $7,400. Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities (FES-UA) For the 2023-2024 school year, an eligible student must be 3 or 4 years old or eligible to enroll in kindergarten through 12th grade in a public school in Florida and have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or has a diagnosis of a disability from a licensed physician or psychologist. Scholarship can be used for a Personal Education Savings Account (ESA) for their student, which can be used for private school tuition and fees, on-learning learning, tutoring, therapy, and other approved customized learning services and materials. In order to apply for either of the above scholarships – parents must apply to an eligible non-profit scholarship funding organization that is administering the program. Click the button below for more information Home Education/Home School Parents may choose to withdraw their child from public school and educate them at home. Please note similar to enrolling in a private school – the school district/school is no longer required to provide the student a free and appropriate education or any services such as services on their IEP (i.e. therapy) Parents must maintain a portfolio of records and materials showing student work and make it available to the school district if requested in writing. Students in home education programs must annually undergo one of five academic evaluation options and submit the results to the district school superintendent. Parents register their home education program with the school district, providing the name, address, and birth date of each student participating.