Orange Center Elementary School in Orlando is set to become the state's first public-private charter school following a parent vote of 185 to 32 approving the switch, with backing from Lift Orlando and Orange County Public Schools.
"I'm thrilled about this. I attended school here myself, and now my son is a third-grader here," said Michelle Wright, whose child attends the school.
More resources for students
Dr. Maria Vazquez, who leads Orange County Public Schools as superintendent, noted, "You'll see more money going toward things like tutoring and scholarships — resources we currently don't have."
Lift Orlando, a nonprofit dedicated to renewing West Orlando, is a key partner in the effort.
"We want to give priority to kids zoned for this school, those already enrolled here, and their siblings. It's a neighborhood school, so those students move to the front of the line." — Mark Shamley, Vice President of Community Impact, Lift Orlando
How the vote unfolded
Balloting stretched across six days, with 225 votes submitted by qualified parents. Retired Ninth Circuit Chief Judge Belvin Perry Jr. oversaw the process as arbitrator.
Natalie Updyke, a mother of three children ages 8, 7, and 4, shared her excitement: "I'm absolutely overjoyed. I couldn't be happier. Lift Orlando has accomplished incredible things for Orange Center and for our neighborhood as a whole."
Opportunity for the children
The school, home to 444 students at present, falls within the district of school board member Vicki-Elaine Felder. Felder highlighted the fresh possibilities ahead, saying the shift means opportunity for the children — chances to learn through educational excursions as well as visits from outside guests.
Beginning July 2026, Orange Center will convert into a K-8 charter academy centered on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM), and officials anticipate enrollment will grow.