Behind The Scenes by Tim Weisheyer Chair, Public Policy Committee The wheels on the bus go round and round – around Osceola County that is, transporting several members of Osceola County Association of Realtors® on November 10, 2010 to schools in the District for a “Behind the Scenes” tour. This was the inaugural event hosted by OSCAR to provide a peek into the classrooms and education system of Osceola County. The first stop was the Osceola County School for the Arts (O.C.S.A.), where Principal Charles M. Lisby joined the group and shared some of the accomplishments of his faculty and students and highlighted some extraordinarily talented students. Aside from being treated to numerous musical performances, Realtors® were able to sit in on several classes, including Acting, Creative Writing, Algebra 1, and AP Art classes to name a few. OSCA is a unique campus whereby students are exposed to various styles of music between classes which adds to the artistic atmosphere of the school. Additionally, OCSA students perform a recital every Wednesday in order to showcase their talents and to hone their skills for future events. The School for the Arts has enjoyed an “A” grade for 6 consecutive years, received awards for best high school in 2008-2009, has a graduation rate of 95% and sends 70% of its students to Post-Secondary education – all achievements to be recognized and praised. The second stop on the tour was the Technical Education
Realtors® riding the school bus Becky Chirillo, Mary Cooper, Angel Ortiz and Janet Summerton.
Realtors® at Education Foundation with Directors Kathy Carr and Marcie Hill.
Center of Osceola County (TECO), located on Simpson Boulevard. This institute, and its sister, the Professional And Technical High School (PATHS), are designed to “provide education which prepares and inspires all to their highest career and academic potential by integrating technical and academic training.” TECO/PATHS are comprised of both high school and dual enrollment students who are learning trade skills as well as general academics. The programs are also available to adults who wish to continue or complete their education. Jeannette Eddy, Director at TECO, accompanied the group as we visited several classes and enjoyed hands-on participation. Realtors® were provided the opportunity to observe the HVAC training center, receive instruction from Graphic Design students, visit with Phlebotomy students and discuss architecture with the Architecture (CAD) class. Some were even treated to first-hand experience on electrical wiring and were able to showcase their electrical skills. Our tour of these campuses concluded with a wonderful lunch with Superintendent, Dr. Michael Grego, prepared by the Culinary Art students in Mr. Newell’s class. The last stop of the day was at the new facilities of the Osceola Education Foundation. The Education Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to
Realtors® showcasing electric wiring skills Tim Weisheyer, Renee Clark, Kim Goodwin, Mary Cooper and Anneris Rivera.
January 2011