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School Start Time Survey

The School Board of Orange County is exploring potential changes to school start times, and your voice matters. We invite parents, students, and community members to share their thoughts and perspectives on this important issue. Your feedback will help guide the School Board in making informed decisions that reflect the needs and priorities of our community. Please take a moment to share your opinion—your input makes a difference!

Click here to get started!
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OCPS Stellar Awards – Celebrating Excellence

On Friday, January 30, the Orange County Public Schools community will gather at the Rosen Shingle Creek for the annual Stellar Awards, an event dedicated to honoring outstanding staff who exemplify the highest standards in supporting all of our students. This year, more than 500 stellar educators and school & district support staff will be celebrated for their dedication and impact, including 19 exceptional finalists who stood out among their peers.

Click here to learn more about the honorees and finalists.
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Magnet Application Window Now Open!

OCPS magnet programs reflect the diversity of the district and are designated to attract students from across the district. The Magnet Application window will be open from October 13 and close on December 19.

Click here to learn more!
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Scholastic Academies Application Window Now Open!

Scholastic Academies are specialized educational pathways within Orange County Public Schools that offer students unique learning experiences focused on specific themes such as STEM, the arts, business, tourism, marine science, esports, and more. The Scholastic Academy Application is open from October 13 through December 19.

Click here to learn more!
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What is ParentSquare?

ParentSquare is a unified communication platform that offers a variety of tools that allow the district, school administrators and teachers to more effectively communicate and engage with families and students.

Click here to learn more!
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School Spirit Run

The 5th Annual School Spirit Run is officially set for Saturday, February 7, 2026. We can’t wait to see our community come together in full stride!

Register Today!
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Parents, now is the time!

At OCPS, we believe that every student deserves a thriving future, and it all starts with the right educational foundation. Click below to enroll your child and become part of a community that’s united in purpose and passionate about student success.

Enroll Now!
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Community Connect visible in the foreground.

Need to Locate Resources? You can search for free or reduced cost programs such as food, housing, mental health, education programs, and other social services provided directly by Community Based Organizations.

Click here to learn more!
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Hurricane Season: June 1 - November 30

Hurricanes are dangerous and can cause major damage from storm surge, wind damage, rip currents and flooding.

Click here for helpful resources!
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OCPS Parent Portal Concerns?

If you are experiencing issues with an OCPS Parent Portal Application (i.e. Skyward Family Access, Canvas Parent) please click below for support.

Parent Portal Concerns Form

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Latest News

Stay up to date on the latest news, events and more with the ParentSquare app!

Upcoming Events

View the full calendar to see all events happening in the next few weeks and months!

School Profile

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Vision: Every student graduates prepared and inspired for a thriving future.

Mission: Together with our families and the community, we empower students with a superior academic experience, essential life skills, and boundless opportunities.

Address: 10151 Summerlake Groves Winter Garden, Florida 34787 

Phone: 407-554-1940

Principal: Dr.Christine Szymanski 

Mascot: Panther

Colors: Royal Blue, Black and Silver 

School Hours: 8:00 AM-4:00 PM 

Grades: Kindergarten –5th 

Principal’s Message

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Dear Panther Lake Families,

I hope this message finds you rested, refreshed, and full of wonderful memories from your Thanksgiving break. It was lovely to have a few days to pause and appreciate all the good things in our lives, and now we are excited to welcome our students back to school this week!

Attendance: Every Day Counts!

As we transition into the final few weeks before the Winter Holiday break, I want to emphasize how incredibly important daily attendance is right now. We only have three short weeks of instruction before the holidays, and every single learning moment is critical. Consistent attendance ensures that your child doesn't miss key concepts that build the foundation for future learning. Please help us by ensuring your student is on time and present every day from now until December 22nd.

Upcoming FAST Progress Monitoring Assessment

During the first week of December, our students will be taking the 2nd FAST (Florida Assessment of Student Thinking) progress monitoring assessment. This assessment is a valuable tool that provides us with a snapshot of your child’s progress in reading and math so far this year.

Please know that this is not a test your child needs to "study" for. Instead, the data we collect from this 2nd administration of FAST is essential. It will be used by our teachers to personalize instruction, pinpoint areas where students need extra support, and shape our curriculum for the entire second half of the school year. Ensuring your child is well-rested and prepared to put forth their best effort is the most helpful way you can support them during this time.

We are so grateful for your continued partnership and look forward to a fantastic, focused few weeks of learning leading up to the holidays.

Warmly,

Dr. Christine Szymanski

Principal, Panther Lake Elementary