School Zone | Orange Observer

Liz Ramos
January 23, 2026

Four West Orange County schools receive recognition for magnet programs

Dr. Phillips High, Lakeview Middle and Bay Meadows and Tildenville elementary schools are among 15 Orange County Public Schools to receive recognition.

Observer School Zone
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Leticia Silva
January 21, 2026

Controversial book remains in OCPS libraries

‘Do Animals Fall in Love?’ by Katharina von der Gathen will remain available at OCPS middle school libraries.

Observer School Zone
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Michael Eng
January 21, 2026

Lakeview Middle to celebrate library re-opening

The school also will welcome award-winning local author Amar Shah, who will be visiting, speaking with students and signing books.

Arts + Entertainment
Things to Do

Leticia Silva
January 20, 2026

Want to name the new Horizon West elementary school?

Fill out an OCPS survey that will be available until 4 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6.

Southwest Orange
News

Liz Ramos
January 17, 2026

PHOTOS: OCPS All-County Dance Gala

Students from seven West Orange County schools showcased their dance skills.

Observer School Zone
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Leticia Silva
January 16, 2026

8-year-old Winter Garden boy writes, publishes book

Foundation Academy student Jacob Nethers has published his first book, ‘The Dragons of Gargon,’ at just 8 years old.

Observer School Zone

Liz Ramos
January 15, 2026

INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Terrance Washington, Windermere Preparatory School

Terrance Washington is a psychology teacher at Windermere Preparatory School.

Observer School Zone
Influencer

Michael Eng
January 15, 2026

Dr. Phillips Dance Magnet presents ‘Celebration of Dance’

Celebration of Dance is a fundraising event for the Dr. Phillips High School Dance Magnet.

Arts + Entertainment
Things to Do

Liz Ramos
January 14, 2026

OCPS achieves highest graduation rate in history

Ocoee and Windermere high schools are among the highest graduation rates in the district.

Observer School Zone
News

Liz Ramos
January 13, 2026

Winter Garden educator leads with purpose in new microschool

Lea Thompson created Purpose Prep Academy to provide individualized education to students after experiencing a childhood of not being academically challenged.