School Zone | Orange Observer

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.

Observer School Zone
News

Liz Ramos
January 9, 2026

Casting call: OCPS looking for students to perform in Top Talent LIVE

The Top Talent LIVE application is open through Friday, Feb. 13.

Observer School Zone
News

Leticia Silva
January 7, 2026

FORECAST 2026: Horizon West's newest elementary school

A new Horizon West elementary school to open in August to alleviate nearby Panther Lake and Water Spring elementary schools.

Southwest Orange
News

Liz Ramos
January 7, 2026

FORECAST 2026: Eight Waves brings hope, instills confidence in West Orange student

Participation in the nonprofit's mentoring program helped KK Charles throughout high school and beyond.

West Orange Times & Observer
Neighborhood

Michael Eng
January 7, 2026

FORECAST 2026: The fight for free thought

How Horizon High School teacher William Loggans became the poster child for independent thought in public education.

West Orange Times & Observer
News

Liz Ramos
January 5, 2026

Horizon West schools find common thread

Bridgewater Middle School art students bring Keene’s Crossing Elementary students’ dream Squishmallows to life.

Observer School Zone

Liz Ramos
December 19, 2025

INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Lisa Barrows, Hamlin Middle School

Lisa Barrows is the theater educator and director as well as Junior Thespians Troupe 10639 sponsor at Hamlin Middle School.

Observer School Zone
Influencer

Liz Ramos
December 17, 2025

Whole lot of love: Tree sales benefit Windermere High choir

Longtime Disney entertainer hosts Christmas tree lots outside Windermere High School, with proceeds benefiting the school’s choir program.

Observer School Zone
News

Liz Ramos
December 17, 2025

West Orange High band students continue caroling tradition

Jay Zimmerman started caroling with six friends when he was in seventh grade. Now as a junior, he's joined by 40-plus students performing on the streets of his neighborhood.