Power to the parents
The Parent Empowerment Workshop Series, held at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday in September at Latino Leadership, 1010 Executive Center Drive, Ste 100, Orlando, helps parents understand the education process. Topics include FCAT, studying tips, family literacy and higher education.
UCF recognized by U.S. News & World Report
The University of Central Florida is the No. 4 “up-and-coming” school in the country, according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2012 best colleges rankings. The “up-and-coming” list recognizes national universities that “recently made the most promising and innovative changes in academics, faculty, students, campus or facilities.” UCF tied for fourth with Clemson University in South Carolina on the list of national schools to watch.
Best in clubs
Kiwanis of Avalon Park, which supports kids and education in the community, was selected as the No. 1 Club in the state of Florida, which has more than 320 clubs, for the 2009-10 year. It was the first time a club snagged the No. 1 spot in its inaugural year.
Selective scouting
Eagle Scout and University High grad Torey McCleskey recently received a very rare award from the Boy Scouts of America — the William T. Hornaday Award — for his project building reef balls to help conserve ocean marine life. Torey was also selected as the second-most outstanding Eagle Scout in the Nation in 2010.
Waterford kids care
Waterford Elementary students raised $2,400 for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital through Chili’s “Create a Pepper” St. Jude’s Fundraiser. Students donated their savings, collected the money on their own and solicited family members for donations.
Most innovative college
Valencia College has been named a finalist for The Aspen Prize, a prestigious $1 million prize to recognize the nation’s most innovative and effective community colleges. The winner will be announced in December.