When you picture your neighbors in East Orlando, you may think of the young couple down the street or your friends and family across town. Those not often considered are the diverse population of homeless individuals that live among us. For these neighbors, help and resources are scarce. Recently a daytime drop-in center was proposed to help the homeless, although the center’s location has been one of heated controversy. The proposed East Orlando center is a necessity to help the homeless however, according to Cathy Jackson, executive director of the Homeless Services Network of Central Florida. “We can see that the number of homeless... [Read more]

The UCP/Bailes Campus will open its doors this August for students of all abilities. UCP of Central Florida is set to open their brand new, state-of-the-art, 35,000-square-foot facility this August for kids of all needs dubbed the UCP East Orange/Bailes Campus in Research Park. Known primarily for their work with young children who have special needs, the new campus will incorporate an all-inclusive environment in an effort to help children of all levels and backgrounds grow and learn together. “At UCP we provide a comprehensive SET of services for all of our students – support, education and therapy,” says Ryan Dumas, director of marketing... [Read more]

This month marks the beginning of the 2009-10 Orange County Public Schools school year. After an immensely busy, and successful, year in 2008-09 complete with school bell flip times, budget cuts and a whopping 21 out of 30 District 2 schools receiving an ‘A’ grade from the state, Daryl Flynn, your school board member for District 2, is ready to do it all over again this year. “I’m excited, sure,” she says. “I’m excited for the District 2 schools. I’m excited to see them staffed with great principals and teachers for another successful year.” This year brings several new challenges, one of... [Read more]

More than 2 million children are homeschooled in the United States every year. Generally parents choose to homeschool their children in an attempt to provide an education that is less expensive yet has more attention focused on the their child than private school. For those parents, it’s the only way to provide true one-on-one attention, guidance and assistance to the developing child. It’s their focus and dedication to education that drive the growing trend of homeschooling for families around the world. “Homeschooling provides your children with the education they need at a price that most can afford in an environment that... [Read more]

Your children mean the world to you. There isn’t anything you wouldn’t do to ensure their success or put a smile on their face. You’re a proud parent and you’re determined to give your child the best possible start to their educational career. And, in East Orlando, there may not be a better place to start than Ladybird Academy. The Ladybird Academy staff continually go the extra step to ensure children are learning in a safe, happy environment. Combining preschool early learning and education with high quality childcare, Ladybird Academies are designed to give youngsters the learning excellence they deserve in a bright,... [Read more]