EDUCATION CORNER

UCP STORIES

Celebrating Marissa’s Growth and Independence

Written By: Elizabeth Davila , School Business Manager, UCP of Central Florida Marissa is making wonderful, joyful progress as her school and home experiences continue to come together. Every day, she is becoming more independent—confidently throwing away her trash, getting her shoes, and staying in her designated area on her own. These small but meaningful milestones reflect her growing confidence, sense of responsibility, and comfort navigating daily routines. Her self-awa

UCP Seminole 2nd Grade Weather Gallery Walk: A Project-Based Science Showcase

Written By: Ann M. Our students recently wrapped up an exciting 10-day weather study with a hands-on showcase of their learning! Over the course of the project, they completed engaging, interactive tasks designed to deepen their understanding of weather concepts and build practical skills. As part of the experience, students partnered with their families to create weather reporting projects, giving them the chance to practice real-world communication and share their learning

Finding Her Voice: Gigi’s Journey at UCP

UCP has played a vital role in Gigi’s success. Through consistent therapies, wonderful teachers, and a supportive, inclusive classroom environment, Gigi has been given the tools she needs to thrive. Her teachers work tirelessly to support her academically, while her therapists focus on building skills that translate into everyday independence.

When Support Steps Back, Students Step Up

Written By: Anna O'Connor Morin , Associate Superintendent Families often ask for a one to one (1:1) adult support person for their student because they want their child to be safe, successful, and supported—and that makes complete sense. While 1:1 support can be helpful in very specific situations, it is not always the best long-term approach for students in special education. Most Restrictive Support A full-time 1:1 adult is considered one of the most restrictive forms of

Every Day Counts: How Showing Up Shapes Your Child’s Success

Written by: Tania Villalon, Parent Engagement Coordinator We know mornings can be busy, schedules can be tight, and life happens. Still, one of the most powerful ways families can support their child’s success is something simple but important: helping them be at school every day. Research consistently shows that regular school attendance plays a major role in how children learn, grow, and thrive over time. What Good Attendance Really Means Missing school occasionally is exp

Reading Fluency – What Parents Want To Know!

Written By: Anna O'Connor Morin , Senior Director of Education What Is Reading Fluency? Reading fluency is a child’s ability to read smoothly, accurately, and with expression. A fluent reader doesn’t have to stop and sound out every word—they can read in a way that sounds natural, like talking. When children read fluently, they can focus on understanding the story or information, not just figuring out the words. Fluency is an important bridge between learning to read and rea

UCP in Action at the Florida Education Technology Conference

Written By: Alyssa Rial , Program Coordinator, UCP of Central Florida This week, UCP was proud to be represented at the Florida Education Technology Conference, where our team engaged with cutting-edge educational tools, exchanged best practices with fellow educators, and gathered fresh ideas to strengthen teaching and learning across our schools. Thanks to the support of the Project ELEVATE Grant , UCP educators are able to attend impactful conferences like this one—experi

Planning with Purpose: Strengthening Instruction at UCP Seminole

Written By: Ann Lorraine Mistica , Educator, UCP of Central Florida UCP Seminole teachers recently participated in a meaningful professional development session focused on strengthening writing instruction through intentional lesson planning and standards alignment. The session was led by Principal Ms. Stacey Garzione and Instructional Coach Ms. Jordan Kelly , who guided educators through best practices for effective writing instruction. During the learning experience, teac

From Paras to Teachers: Blossoming Through UCP’s Pathway to Teacher at UCP Seminole.

Written By: Ann Lorraine Mistica , Educator , UCP of Central Florida At UCP Seminole, growth and passion shine through the inspiring journeys of Ms. Nelida Gonzales and Ms. Victoria Alfes . Through UCP’s Pathway to Teacher, both educators stepped confidently into leadership roles, transforming their dedication into meaningful impact for the children they serve. Ms. Nelida Gonzales now leads the toddler classroom , creating a warm, nurturing environment where our youngest l

Applying the TEACCH Method at UCP

Written By: Elise Hartigan, MSW , Curriculum & Instruction Autism Specialist The TEACCH Method is a structured teaching approach designed to support individuals with autism and other exceptionalities. It focuses on creating clear, predictable environments that promote independence and reduce anxiety. This year, UCP introduced the TEACCH framework across its ESE More Supportive Classrooms (MSCs) to strengthen consistency, student engagement, and self-directed learning. Visual

Why Attendance & Being on Time Matter

Written by: Dr. Karyn Scott, Director of Curriculum & Instruction, K-12 The school year has started , and the daily routine is shifting from summer activities. We all know that when children come to school every day and on time, they set themselves up for success. Each day builds on the last, and missing even a little time can make it harder for them to keep up. Arriving on time also means they can enjoy a healthy school breakfast, which helps them focus and have the energy t