Orange County Public Schools is committed to ensuring every student graduates prepared and inspired for a thriving future. We empower students with a superior academic experience, essential life skills, and boundless opportunities.

On this page, you’ll find information about what our school offers to help lead all of our students to success. 

OCPS Curriculum

The STEM program at Orange Center Elementary provides a foundation for students who are interested in enhancing their knowledge and skills in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. The critical thinking skills cultivated in this program help to prepare students for higher education and leading roles in 21st Century careers.  The program provides opportunities for hands on experiments and activities focused on real world application.

Our Science instruction incorporates both the Scientific Method and the Engineering Design Process to expose students to the diverse pathways of solving real world problems and expanding upon current research results. 

The Technology classes are focused on the integration of cross curricular content using digital tools to problem solve, as well as engineer new innovative products.

Furthermore, Math focuses on mathematical processes through real world situations, and musical math notation. These courses each provide rigorous instruction focused on the specific areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math simultaneously implemented by a team with a cohesive focus. 

STEM Motto

“There are no mistakes in STEM, only new discoveries”

Goals

The primary goal of Orange Center Elementary STEM program is to educate the whole child by providing them with the tools necessary to grow academically.

Vision

To provide a rigorous and stimulating learning environment in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, producing students who are equipped to succeed in a 21st century career as leaders and innovators.

Mission

To cultivate students into becoming highly knowledgeable and diverse in the sciences, therefore, laying the foundation that will prepare them to be effective competitors in a global society. 

STEM Programs include the following features (Florida Department of Education, 2016):

• A curriculum driven by problem-solving, discovery and exploratory learning that requires students to actively engage a situation in order to find its solution.
• Nature of technology; engineering design; and systems thinking, maintenance and troubleshooting incorporated into the science and mathematics curricula.
• Innovative instruction allows students to explore greater depths of all of the subjects by utilizing the skills learned.
• Technology provides creative and innovative ways to solve problems and apply what has been learned.
• Independent and collaborative research projects embedded in the curricula.
• Collaboration, communication, and critical thinking skills threaded throughout the curricula.
• Opportunities for mentoring by business, industry, and research organization leaders.

STEM Special Areas:

Gardening 

Coding & Robotics 

Beginning Orchestra 

Chess 

National Honor Society 

FAQ'S

What is a magnet school?

Elementary magnet programs provide students with the opportunity to participate in a specialized curriculum that is challenging and engaging. Magnet schools encourage parent and community involvement and requires academic rigor. The course curriculum aligns with standards put in place by the Department of Education. Orange Center Elementary (OCE) magnet program is S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and OCE is the only elementary school in Orange County with this specialization.

Who can apply to OCE's STEM Magnet Program?

Students who live in orange county and are entering grades kindergarten through fifth may apply.

What are requirements for admissions?

Interested students must apply by completing a magnet application form. The window for admissions begins in November and ends in February of each year. This form can be found at OCPS School Choice
Parents of accepted students are required to sign a contract stating they will ensure students are abiding by the student code of conduct, as well as the attendance policy. In addition, parents will be required to actively participate.

Is transportation provided?

Unfortunately, transportation IS NOT provided. If accepted, parents will be responsible for providing transportation to and from school each day.