ORLANDO, Fla. – A pivotal decision looms for families at Orange Center Elementary School in Central Florida. Through a recent vote, parents are being asked to determine the future path of the school: should it continue as a traditional public institution, or take on a new identity as a charter school?

The debate around this potential transformation is heating up. Advocates for the change argue that transitioning to a charter school could introduce a broader array of programs and extend classroom time, potentially benefiting students’ educational experiences. However, not all parents have made up their minds, as they carefully consider the implications of such a significant shift.

Among those already decided is Autiionna Hogues, a parent at the school, who has made her stance clear. “My decision is going to be yes because I don’t want to send my kids anywhere else,” she declared, indicating her support for the charter conversion.

This week, Orange County Public Schools distributed ballots to parents, asking for their input on whether Orange Center Elementary should undergo a transformation into a charter school. Importantly, this would not be a complete overhaul; if the change is approved, the school would remain tuition-free and maintain a school zone, closely resembling its current public school framework. Additionally, a partnership between OCPS and Lift Orlando would be established to manage the school.

Unique Brooks, another parent at the school, believes the proposed changes could be advantageous for families in similar situations to hers. As the community deliberates, the outcome of this vote could set a precedent for educational choices in the region.

Another parent, Unique Brooks, says the proposed changes could help families like hers.

“The extra hour of school — as a working parent — that’s very beneficial for me,” Brooks said. “I’m also looking forward to the summer school programs they’re doing.”

The vote comes just weeks after a charter school six minutes down the road — Legends Academy — permanently closed, displacing more than 200 students due to unsustainable financial challenges. Orange Center Elementary Principal Erin Albert says that situation would not happen here.

“There’s no way for that to happen because there are safeguards in place,” Albert said.

Albert explained that accountability measures would remain in effect even if the school becomes a charter.

“Our board, our advisory committee, and having the partnership with OCPS will hold us accountable,” she said. “There will also be a five-year review of the school’s performance.”

During a Friday night vision board meeting, several parents shared ideas and questions about what the future of the school could look like. Hogues questioned whether students would have access to the same extracurriculars as other public schools.

“Public schools now have their drama, theater, and sports,” she said. “They have different things — so are we going to have that as well?”

Brooks said the plan includes a broader academic focus. “They’re adding arts,” she said. “It’s not going to be just STEM — it’s going to be a STEAM program.”

Voting begins Monday, and the results are expected to be announced Jan. 22.