Orange Peal - October 2023

“Green” Culture at Arbor Ridge K-8

SETS NATIONAL STANDARD

ByLauren Roth

At Arbor Ridge K-8, there are “green” surprises around nearly every corner: garden beds ready for students to plant, chickens strutting in a courtyard, bins for recycling items like markers and plastic bags –even buckets to use for growing plants hydroponically.

Being earth-friendly is part of the culture at this neighborhood school located west of University High School and the University of Central Florida. And last year, Arbor Ridge was one of three OCPS schools to earn national recognition as a U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School.

“Our Green Initiatives continue to flourish year after year, and I’m so proud of the school culture we’re building around sustainability,” said Principal Vanessa DeMars. New this year, the chickens are being shepherded by School Clerk Linda Kuhl and Art Teacher Sean Nagy. A grant-funded solar panel is ready to be assembled.

The driving force behind the green push is second-grade teacher and Green Team Chair Amanda Ferguson, who first kicked off the efforts six years ago. “The more students love it, the more teachers get involved,” said Ferguson, who was part of the team who went to Washington, D.C., for the award ceremony in August.

Ferguson said Arbor Ridge has succeeded by both having the support of leadership and by following the example of other schools, such as Millennia Gardens Elementary, a previous Green Ribbon School honoree.

“Now we’re becoming mentors to other schools,” Ferguson said. “My advice is to pick one thing and start with that – like recycling, a garden or composting. Make it student-led – that’s why we’re doing it!” Once more students are involved, it’s possible to add on another element, she said. Arbor Ridge has exemplary company within OCPS.

Only about 700 schools nationwide have been named Green Ribbon schools since

Amanda Ferguson

Second-grade teacher and Green Team Chair

2023 OCPS U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools

Arbor Ridge K-8

Oak Ridge High School

Stone Lakes Elementary School

2023 Green Schools

Recognition Program Winners

These awards were presented during a ceremony Sept. 14

Top Three

1. Sally Ride Elementary School

2. Dommerich Elementary School

3. Zellwood Elementary School

Judge’s Choice Awards

AEM (Authentic Exploration Matters)

Leadership Award:

Arbor Ridge K-8

AEM Empowerment Award: Magnolia School

Grounds Enhancement: Dommerich Elementary

School Sustainability: Piedmont Lakes Middle

Health and Wellness: Audubon Park School

Curriculum Integration: Blankner School

Community Involvement:

Edgewater High

Schoolwide Culture:

Sally Ride Elementary

Innovation: Timber Lakes Elementary

Community Cares: Law Enforcement Unites to Replace OCPS Student’s Stolen Bike

After a 14-year-old OCPS student had his bike stolen outside his school, law enforcement stepped in to get him a brand-new one.

OCPS District Police Sergeant Robert Bobay is assigned to Acceleration East High School. On Sept. 1, just before school was to let out for the Labor Day holiday weekend, Sgt. Bobay was dealing with a serious incident at the school when someone walked onto campus and stole ninth-grader Iam Garzon’s bicycle.

The theft was caught on the school’s security cameras.

“He looks at the bikes. He saw the one that was unlocked. He looked in the windows here, takes the bike and just rides off,” Sgt. Bobay said.

By Samantha Weiss

Iam and his dad, who are from Colombia, met with Sgt. Bobay after school.

“I told the father, ‘I’ll see if I can get you a bike. I don’t know if I can.’” The incident left Iam without his primary mode of transportation to and from school, prompting him to borrow his brother’s bike in the meantime.

The sad story took a positive turn when Sgt. Bobay made a few calls and the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office stepped up to generously donate a brand-new bike to Iam!

Just days after Iam’s bike was stolen, he was called down to the office. He was greeted by Sgt. Bobay and OCPS Police Commander David Rinehart and given a Hyper Mountain bike, lock, and helmet.

“All I can say is thank you,” Iam said. “This bike looks really cool.” The kind gesture not only provided him with a new means of transportation. It also demonstrated how an OCPS employee can positively influence the life of a student by going the extra mile.

Superintendent Maria F. Vazquez, Ed.D. By Samantha Weiss

Earns Spot on Orlando Magazine’s 50 Most Powerful People list

Superintendent Vazquez has just claimed her spot among Orlando’s powerhouses! Orlando magazine named her one of their 50 Most Powerful People!

This annual list showcases the influential people who are shaping the future of Orlando in various fields, from education and government to the arts, sports, business, and philanthropy. Dr. Vazquez’s outstanding contributions as the superintendent of OCPS have positioned her as a true trailblazer in the Education category, earning her this well-deserved recognition.

In September, Dr. Vazquez participated in a fun photoshoot for the magazine ahead of the issue’s release. She was given the full supermodel treatment, getting her hair and make-up perfected by the on-set staff. At one point, OCPS district photographer Frank Weber joked with the make-up artist to make Dr. Vazquez look like Tammy Faye Bakker, a televangelist known for big ‘80s hair, thick black eyeliner and red lips.

“No, please do not make me look like Tammy Faye Bakker!” Vazquez said while laughing.

She was then joined by fellow honorees Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings (Politics and Government) and President and CEO of the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts Kathy Ramsberger (the Arts).

Check out this behind-the-scenes look at her photoshoot:

To see the entire list, head over to Orlando Magazine’s website.

OCREA SCHOLARSHIP WINNER

Focuses on How Students Learn Differently

By Sandra Carr

Keri Chriswell is driven to advocate for both her own children and the ones she educates at Azalea Park Elementary. A scholarship from the Orange County Retired Educators Association will help her continue to lead and inspire them.

A Tier 1 intervention teacher, Chriswell is in her final semester of coursework for her Master of Arts in elementary education degree from the University of Central Florida.

Chriswell’s oldest child prepared her for the teaching path after he was diagnosed with a seizure disorder that affected his ability to learn. She realized he learned differently than other students and became his educational advocate who helped him succeed in school.

“The scholarship is a huge blessing because I’m a single mother of five children,” she said. “My kids have watched me make enormous sacrifices of both my time and money to go back to school and invest in furthering my education to have a bigger impact on my students.”

Last year, Chriswell was a Tier 1 intervention teacher at Sunrise Elementary when she found out she was the recipient of the OCREA $2,000 Educators Graduate Scholarship.

“Our organization’s main objectives are to fund scholarships for educators and students and promote lifelong learning,” said OCREA Scholarship Chairwoman Janice Quint.

Chriswell said she feels exuberant joy when her students have aha moments and loves that she can help her students embrace their potential and reach their academic goals.

“Obtaining this master’s degree makes me feel more equipped to improve educational outcomes for my students,” said Chriswell, who has a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from UCF and Master of Science in Organizational Leadership from Palm Beach Atlantic University.

She will receive her new degree when she walks across the stage during the Fall 2023 commencement ceremony at the Addition Financial Arena in December.

“In today’s world, the educational needs of students involve various learning styles, so educators need to ensure they’re advancing their knowledge of how to reach them,” she said.

Teachers and media specialists at OCPS schools serving K-12 who are enrolled in a graduate program at an accredited college or university and have completed a minimum of one course are eligible for the Educators Graduate scholarship. Educators at OCPS charter schools are also eligible. The scholarship application deadline is Friday, Jan. 19, 2024.

Dynamic Duo:

Meet K9 Coco’s new paw-tner

By Sandra Carr

When you’re partnered with OCPS’s favorite employee, K9 Coco, you’d better be on your A-game. Fortunately, K9 Officer Brian Howarth is up to the challenge!

Howarth brings his extensive experience as a K9 handler to the OCPS District Police. Howarth previously served as a Lieutenant with the Union County Sheriff's Office in New Jersey, commanding the esteemed K9/Search and Rescue Unit. After 26 years of dedicated service, he retired in December 2022.

Howarth came out of retirement to join OCPS District Police in April 2023.

"I wanted to be a K9 handler because it was something different," he explains. "It involves many physical and mental challenges. I like being able to help and interact with people."

Although he has worked at Positive Pathways and Washington Shores PLC, his primary focus is working with his trusted K9 partner, Coco, a German Shorthaired Pointer. Howarth travels from school to school, conducting vital weapons screenings to ensure a safe learning environment for all.

From searching for contraband and weapons to tracking missing children and apprehending suspects, K9 handlers play a significant role in maintaining safety within the community.

“I have been a K9 handler for 24 years and cannot imagine doing anything else... I have assisted in training over 165 K9 teams from across the New York/New Jersey area. Some of those teams work for federal agencies, such as the U.S. Park Police protecting Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.”

Howarth has handled seven K9 partners before Coco, including German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Dutch Shepherds and a Belgian Malinois. These partnerships have seen him involved in significant missions, such as protective sweeps prior to presidential visits and assisting with explosives sweeps at major sporting events.

Additionally, Howarth responded to the recovery efforts at Ground Zero on 9-11.

When asked about his experience working with Coco, Howarth’s enthusiasm shines through.

“Coco is awesome,” he says with a smile. “She is energetic, loves working, and will do anything to play ball.”

Despite being the smallest dog he has worked with, Coco impresses with her boundless energy. As part of Howarth’s family, she joins his retired K9 partner Devante, a 9-year-old Dutch Shepherd, and Ozzy, their 5-year-old Labrador. Together, they enjoy running around the yard and relaxing by the pool.“The bond between a handler and K9 is unbelievable. They really become part of your family,” Howarth said.

Howarth’s goals for this year may include an educational visit to your school.

“I hope to make Coco even more popular around the district,” he said. As they travel from school to school, Howarth plans to showcase Coco’s exceptional abilities and demonstrate how she contributes to keeping OCPS safe and secure. And make sure to ask Howarth for a Coco trading card.

With Officer Howarth and K-9 Coco on duty, OCPS can rest assured that the safety and well-being of students and staff are in capable hands… and paws.

Follow Coco on instagram at coco_ocps

Emerges Over the Horizon

By Andy Orrell

Water Spring Middle School has one of Orange County Public Schools’ more unique origin stories. Horizon West was master planned in 1995, kicking off decades of growth. As housing began to fill out the Southwest Orange County community’s Hickory Nut Village in the late 2010s, the need for a future middle school was apparent. But there weren’t enough students to support a separate school yet.

The innovative solution backed by the community was one rarely used by OCPS. A new middle school would open - but on the campus of another new school.

“While a new building was being constructed for our students, our school would operate on the Horizon High School campus,” said Water Spring Middle School Principal Brian K. Sanchez Corona, Ed.D.

The strategy included housing Water Spring Middle School in their own building with a separate staff and a different bell schedule than the high school. “We worked together as true partners with Horizon to successfully create our own learning environment while still being a respectful guest to the high school,” Sanchez Corona said.

After two years, the Wildcats moved into their new den, opening their doors this August. The campus sits on 25 acres next to Winter Spring Elementary School and has a capacity of more than 1,200 students. Built by Core Construction, the middle school cost a total of $50.5 million.

The campus boasts amenities including computer, multipurpose, and art and music labs; advanced classroom technology with computers and interactive touch-screen panels; a multipurpose cafeteria space; a beautiful gym and several athletic fields.

“In the middle of adversity there is great opportunity.”

- Albert Einstein

In August, District 4 School Board Member Pam Gould joined staff and the community to celebrate with a Sneak Peek. “We had hundreds of community members attend to explore the campus, being greeted by a drumline and cheer team, as well as our new mascot,” Sanchez Corona said. “We had so many appreciative families thank us for everything the school district did to provide this new school to the community and their children. This was such an inspiring way to start the next chapter in our story.”

The celebration will continue when Gould and Superintendent Vazquez join the school community for a Dedication Ceremony on Oct. 17 from 9:30-10:30 a.m.

“This has been a whirlwind few years, but it was worth it to be at our new campus and see the effect our school is having on our students,” said Sanchez Corona. “We are so excited for our Dedication Ceremony… we couldn’t ask for a happier ending!”

A Funny Thing Happened

Open House was coming up in the afternoon on a recent day at Dommerich Elementary.

That morning, Assistant Principal Janet Martin was standing in her usual spot at the back gate, welcoming students arriving on foot.

A kindergartner and his grandmother approached the gate, but the student was hesitant to continue alone. Martin offered to take the student to class herself.

But the boy really wanted his grandmother to walk in with him. Martin said that wouldn’t be possible. Finally, the kindergartner appealed to logic.

“Why not, it’s Open House!” he pointed out.

Very clever, young man. But still no dice. Grandma would have to wait for the afternoon. Martin was left to marvel at the creativity of this young student.

Janet Martin Assistant Principal Dommerich Elementary School

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RETIREMENT CORNER

“I loved teaching classroom guidance lessons,” which focused on academic, career-development and social/personal skills at the elementary level, Kilby said. She said she appreciated being voted Teacher of the Year by her peers at Cherokee School.

“I also enjoyed opening Southwest Middle and helping students with various physical challenges who were determined to learn and set goals for themselves.”

Retiree: Claire Stephens

Title: District Media Specialist

Years with OCPS: 36

OCPS Retirement Date: June 30, 2021

Retiree: Julie Kilby

Title: School Counselor

Years with OCPS: 37

OCPS Retirement Date: June 30, 2023

Teaching is a Family Affair

Sisters Claire Stephens and Julie Kilby got a taste for teaching while substituting in OCPS schools during the 1980s. Then they both took a leap of faith and became educators, working for the school district for a combined 73 years.

Stephens wanted to be a teacher since high school. She received her big break when she began teaching drama at West Orange High and continued to teach theater after transferring to Dr. Phillips High. She also taught TV production, which opened the door for her to become a media specialist at Walker Middle and Freedom High, and later became a district media specialist. In that role, Stephens trained school media specialists and organized the annual Battle of the Books competition.

“I loved working with students and watching them grow,” said Stephens, who has a Bachelor of Arts degree in speech and theater education from Washington State University, a Master of Fine Arts degree in theater design from Southern Methodist University and an Education Specialist degree in educational leadership from Nova Southeastern University.

“I also enjoyed hosting book clubs as a media specialist,” she said. “I have been approached by former students who said they appreciated me cultivating their love of reading, which has continued since their school days.”

Both siblings are proud to have attended OCPS schools. Stephens attended Aloma and Brookshire elementary schools and graduated from high school out of state. Kilby, the younger sister, attended Aloma Elementary, Glenridge Junior High and graduated from Winter Park High.

After earning a Bachelor of Arts in humanities from the University of Central Florida, Kilby went on to complete a Master of Education in counselor education at UCF.

Her roles during the past four decades include language-arts teacher at Howard Middle; exceptional-student education teacher at Liberty Middle; and school counselor at six campuses: Conway and Dover Shores elementary schools, Memorial, Southwest and Walker middle schools and Cherokee School.

Stephens has been retired for the past two years and enjoys helping with book maintenance as an ADDitions School Volunteer. She also has a retirement to-do list, which includes travel and involvement with the Orange County Retired Educators Association.

Kilby said she plans to travel overseas, assist the Orange County League of Women Voters with voter registration and continue to support animals by adopting senior pets, caring for neighborhood strays and volunteering at local rescue organizations.

By Sandra Carr

Upcoming In-Person and Virtual Retirement Services Department Workshops via Canvas and Zoom:

Oct. 4, 5:30-7 p.m.:

Social Security Planning

Note: This workshop will be held in the boardroom at the RBELC. Register for the workshop at canvas.ocps.net

Oct. 11, 5-6:30 p.m.:

Medicare Planning - Choose Wisely!

Oct. 18, 5-6:30 p.m.:

Understanding the FRS Investment Plan

Oct. 25, 5-6:30 p.m.: OCPS DROP Interest Meeting

Around OCPS

Gotha Middle Student and Teacher Swap Spirit Day

Gotha Middle students and teachers participated in Swap Spirit Day in September. The theme provided staff with an opportunity to learn about middle-school students’ interests.

Horizon West Middle and 19th Annual College Colors Day

The leadership team at Horizon West Middle collaboratively showed their collegiate fandom in support of the 19th Annual College Colors Day, which is the official kickoff of college football season. The leadership team also hopes to inspire the Hornet learners to continuously aspire towards achieving their best.

FUNdamentals FINANCIAL LITERACY VPK PROGRAM LAUNCH

Best Photos FrankWeber

By

Hot Wheels. After Iam Garson’s bicycle was stolen from Acceleration East High School, OCPS PD’s R. Bobay jumped into action and found a replacement from Brevard County Sheriff Office. Fast thinking brought back the smiles.

Hugs for all as Dr. Vazquez, Board Member

Karen Castor

Dentel and Dommerich Elementary School Kindergarten Teacher

Katherine Howat, welcome the little ones.

When Burlington opens a new store, we all win. Millennia Elementary School Principal Dyanira Pena received a $5000.00 check for their school.

SURPRISE! Addition Financial renovated Ms Snyder’s Riverside ES classrooms part of the Renovate to Educate-Classroom Makeover Contest.

Dr Phillips’ Air Force JROTC FL-881, under the direction of Richard D. Proctor, LT COL,USAF (RET), remember September 11, 2001 with Flag Ceremony and speech by Orange County Sheriff John Mina.

BEST OF SOCIAL MEDIA

Kicking off Hispanic Heritage Month with some awesome projects in Ms. PG’s Latinos in Action class! Great job by some great kids!

In each issue, the Orange Peal will recognize one top social media post on Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). Want us to consider your school or department’s post? Send a link to orangepeal@ocps.net for consideration.

What a great start to Hispanic Heritage Month!

Innovation Middle School went all out to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month! The students created beautiful artwork and a bulletin board to celebrate influential Hispanic and Latino leaders who have made an impact through the years.

It was quite a fiesta at Avalon Middle School, where students and teachers kicked off Hispanic Heritage Month with a huge courtyard parade! Students carried handmade banners and flags to show their spirit and pride!

Little hearts, big celebration! The kids at Lovell Elementary showed their Hispanic pride with endless smiles and colorful outfits representing many countries and cultures.