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UCP STORIES


Raising Grateful Kids: Simple Ways to Teach Thankfulness at Home
Written By: Tania Villalon Rivera , Parent Engagement Coordinator, UCP of Central Florida Gratitude is one of those values that can truly shape who we are. When kids learn to be thankful for what they have, they grow into happier, more empathetic, and grounded people. It helps them see what’s good in their lives, focus on the positive, and feel more connected to others. Gratitude teaches all of us to move from “I need more” to “I have enough.” But in today’s world, entitlem


Parent Perspective: When Your Child is New to UCP
Written By: Natassia Ferguson , UCP School Business Manager & UCP Parent Natassia—known to many as Nat—is one of UCP Charter School’s Business Managers and a proud UCP parent. Drawing on both her professional experience and her journey as a mom, she shares her personal story for families navigating a new diagnosis or experiencing UCP for the first time, along with reflections she wishes she’d known at the start. From the beginning I remember the day we received my son’s autis


How to Help Your Child Stay Curious and Become a Self-Motivated Learner
Written By: Cassidy Gibson-Cooper , Parenting Central Curiosity isn’t just a trait—it’s a momentum. It’s the spark that keeps kids asking “why,” even when the answers are messy or slow to come. But curiosity doesn’t survive on its own. It needs air. It needs space. And it needs parents who know when to back off, when to step in, and how to get out of the way without disappearing. If your goal is to raise a child who doesn't need constant pushing, who wants to understand the


How to Grow a Young Leader Without Turning Your Home Into a Boardroom
Written By: Meredith Jones , Fine Times Raising a leader doesn’t require a special curriculum or early enrollment in mock government. It starts in your living room, long before your child steps into a classroom or team huddle. Leadership in kids shows up as curiosity that refuses to quit, the courage to admit a mistake, the confidence to speak up — and the grace to listen. You’re not training a CEO. You’re shaping someone who’ll one day stand up for others, take ownership, a


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


Working Together for Student Success
Written by: Anna O'Connor-Morin, Sr. Director of Education The Best Ways to Collaborate with Your Child's Teachers - A Parent-Friendly...


Supporting Your Child Through First Day Jitters
Written By: Gabriella Oliveira, MSW, Clinical Counselor Tips for Parents to Ease Anxiety and Build Confidence The night before the first...


Summer Play – Kindergarten through 2nd grade
Written By: Anna O'Connor Morin , Senior Director of Education Play-based games are a fantastic way to support your child's education...


Back to School - Planning and Practicing for Success
Written By: Anna O'Connor Morin , Senior Director of Education Preparing for the school year is essential to help your child feel...


Learning through Play!
Written by: Tania Villalon, ELA Teacher Summer is here, and it’s the perfect time for kids to have fun while continuing to learn! By...


Summer ELA Activities Checklist
Written by: Tania Villalón, ELA Teacher Get ready for a fun-filled summer of reading and writing with this handy checklist! Use it to...


Reconnect, Recharge, and Relax
Written By: Yanira Melendez , M.S., Clinical Counselor Summer is finally here, and before we know it, we will be returning to a new...


From Classroom to Summer: Supporting Children Through School Year Endings and New Beginnings
As the school year comes to a close, many families celebrate milestones like graduations or the transition into summer break. While these...


Helping Kids Handle Test Season with Confidence: Stress Awareness Month Tips for Parents
Written by: Gabriella Oliveira, MSW, Family Engagement Coordinator April is Stress Awareness Month , making it a great time to focus on...


UCP and Literacy Week Sparks A Lifelong Love of Reading
Written By: Meredith Daniels, M.Eds. Curriculum and Instruction Specialist-Humanities From January 27-31, UCP celebrated Literacy Week ...


A Guide for Families of Students with Disabilities to Support Learning at Home.
Written by: Doraida Mendoza, Curriculum and Instruction Specialist - Autism We understand the vital role you play in supporting your...


Transitions After the Holiday Break
Written by: Gabriella Oliveira, MSW, Family Engagement Coordinator The holiday season is a magical time for families, but it can also...


New Year, New Goals: Empowering Your Child's Journey
Written by: Gabriella Oliveira, MSW, Family Engagement Coordinator As the new year begins, it’s the perfect time to help your child set...


12 Days of Learning: Daily Activities to Keep Kids Engaged During Winter Break
Written by Gabriella Oliveira, MSW, Family Engagement Coordinator The holiday season is a special time to come together, create memories,...


Holiday Season Support
Resources for Our UCP Charter School Families Written by: Gabriella Oliveira, MSW Family Engagement Coordinator As the holiday season...
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