The massive strain on our local school systems has impacted everyone from seasoned administrators to our youngest kindergarteners, giving our entire community a lot to grapple with. The impacts of the pandemic worsened these issues as schools struggled to maintain attendance, grades, and staff members.

Students across the nation and within The Communities of West Lakes fell behind after months of distance learning, and today teachers are still working to close the learning gap.

Just as the pandemic shut down the world, Dr. Frederick Brooks became Orange Center Elementary School's new principal. The school’s grade at the time was a D.  

Dr. Brooks assessed what was occurring and uncovered that a critical connection was missing: the link between school and home. 

“The classroom is only part of a child’s foundation, so bringing parents along the journey is critical,” said Dr. Brooks. 

Navigating this opportunity didn’t come without challenges. One major hurdle was that many Orange Center parents worked during parent-teacher conferences making it challenging to be present. 

Determined to connect with parents, Dr. Brooks met families where they were and called their homes. He asked families detailed questions to understand each student and parent’s unique needs. At school, students were also encouraged to choose a mentor among teachers and faculty. 

With this holistic approach to communication and support, students excelled, and their grades reflected their progress! Orange Center Elementary School's grade rose from a D to a B, and they aren’t stopping until Orange Center is back at A status. 

Dr. Brooks and the faculty are not solely concerned with grades. Their mission is to ensure students are supported before, during, and after school. With students, parents, teachers, staff, administrators, and the West Lakes community united, Orange Center Elementary students now have more resources and opportunities to excel.

“I feel proud because we all worked together to raise our grade,” said Camille, a 5th-grade student at Orange Center Elementary.

Share with a friend or neighbor and help us celebrate the great achievements of Orange Center Elementary School.