Lake Nona › Blog Nona › Lake Nona Schools › Laureate Park Elementary
In a community designed to lead the way in health, technology, and urban innovation, it only makes sense that the local schools would embody the same forward-thinking values. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Laureate Park Elementary School—a modern, inclusive, and high-performing public elementary school located in one of Lake Nona’s most iconic neighborhoods. Since opening in 2017, the school has become a cornerstone of the Laureate Park community, delivering a student experience built around creativity, collaboration, and curiosity.
Laureate Park Elementary was developed in direct response to the rapid population growth in Lake Nona, especially in the smart city-inspired Laureate Park neighborhood. As families moved into homes equipped with fiber-optic connectivity, energy-efficient designs, and walkable green spaces, it became clear that a similarly modern educational environment was essential. Orange County Public Schools met the moment by establishing a school that reflected the neighborhood’s progressive identity—clean-lined architecture, integrated technology, and a curriculum that prepares students not just for the next grade, but for the world they’ll one day lead.
From the moment you arrive, it’s clear that Laureate Park Elementary was built for collaboration and connection. The campus features open-concept hallways, flexible classroom layouts, abundant natural light, and shared common spaces that promote both independent and group learning. It feels more like a creative studio than a traditional school building—and that’s exactly the point. Every element is designed to support 21st-century learning.
Serving students in grades K–5, the school follows Florida’s state education standards while taking an innovative approach to instruction. The academic program focuses on reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies, with instruction personalized to meet students at their individual levels. Teachers use a blend of small-group instruction, digital platforms, and hands-on learning to help each student grow academically while building the confidence and independence they need to thrive.
In reading, the focus begins with strong phonics and fluency instruction in the early grades, then progresses to comprehension, critical thinking, and writing across content areas. Teachers use data to drive instruction and tailor reading groups, ensuring that every child is challenged appropriately. The media center plays an important role in supporting literacy, with a welcoming environment, diverse book collections, and programming designed to build excitement about reading.
In math, students engage in conceptual learning that emphasizes problem-solving and real-world application. From using manipulatives to exploring multi-step word problems and early algebraic thinking, students are guided through a progression that builds both skill and confidence. Technology-based tools like iReady Math and interactive whiteboards allow teachers to provide immediate feedback and adjust instruction in real time.
Science instruction at Laureate Park Elementary is hands-on and inquiry-driven. Students are encouraged to observe, ask questions, make predictions, and test their ideas. The curriculum introduces topics like life sciences, weather, energy, and the scientific method, often through experiments, design challenges, and class-wide investigations. STEM principles are integrated across grade levels and reinforced through cross-curricular connections and special projects.
Students also rotate through a well-rounded schedule of special area classes, including art, music, physical education, and media. These subjects are taught by dedicated instructors who ensure that creativity and self-expression are a regular part of the student experience. In art, students explore various media and techniques while learning about artists and movements. In music, they develop rhythm, pitch, and vocal skills through singing, instruments, and performance. PE classes focus on movement, coordination, and teamwork, while the media center teaches research, digital literacy, and storytelling.
What makes Laureate Park Elementary truly special is its commitment to creating a school culture that reflects its community values. Respect, responsibility, and kindness are at the core of the school’s behavioral expectations, and positive behavior is celebrated across classrooms and grade levels. Students are regularly recognized for modeling leadership, helping others, and contributing to a positive school climate.
Social-emotional learning is woven into the fabric of school life. School counselors provide guidance lessons, facilitate small group support, and help students build the emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills that are essential for success—both now and in the future. Classroom teachers also integrate SEL strategies into daily instruction, using check-ins, mindfulness, and reflection activities to help students navigate their feelings and relationships.
The school’s commitment to inclusive education is evident in every classroom. Gifted students, students with exceptionalities, English language learners, and those needing academic interventions are supported by a team of specialists who work alongside teachers to personalize instruction and provide scaffolding. Small-group intervention, co-teaching, and differentiated instruction are the norm, not the exception.
Laureate Park Elementary is also known for its vibrant extracurricular offerings and enrichment opportunities. From robotics and coding to music ensembles, chorus, art club, safety patrol, and student council, students have numerous ways to get involved, lead, and grow beyond the classroom. Events like Literacy Week, STEM Night, and multicultural celebrations bring families together and provide students with platforms to share their learning in fun, meaningful ways.
Technology is a central part of the school’s instructional model. Each classroom is equipped with digital tools that support engagement and flexibility. Students use tablets and Chromebooks to complete assignments, create digital presentations, and collaborate on shared projects. The school embraces blended learning, combining traditional methods with adaptive digital content to meet each learner’s unique needs.
A defining feature of the school is its strong partnership with families and the broader community. Parents are encouraged to stay involved through the school’s PTA, volunteer opportunities, and a steady stream of communication via newsletters, ClassDojo, email, and Canvas. Teachers are proactive in keeping families informed and engaged, and the administrative team maintains a visible presence throughout the day—from greeting students at arrival to attending performances and family events.
The campus itself is well-maintained and designed to support student wellness and safety. Outdoor learning areas, shaded playgrounds, and secure entry systems ensure that students can learn and play in a healthy environment. The school’s cafeteria serves nutritious meals aligned with district standards, and a culture of wellness is promoted through physical education, hydration stations, and schoolwide health initiatives.
Teachers and staff at Laureate Park Elementary are constantly seeking ways to improve. They participate in ongoing professional development, collaborate in grade-level teams, and receive coaching and support from instructional leaders. The result is a faculty that is not only knowledgeable and skilled, but also reflective and responsive to the changing needs of their students.
As part of the Orange County Public Schools system, the school is aligned with district priorities around equity, academic excellence, and innovation. But it’s the local leadership, the dedicated staff, and the engaged families that make Laureate Park Elementary more than just a high-performing school. It’s a place where children are excited to come each day, where their talents are celebrated, and where their futures are being shaped by every lesson, lunch break, and “aha” moment.
Looking ahead, the school plans to continue expanding its STEM programming, deepen its focus on project-based learning, and explore new ways to involve the community in student learning. As Lake Nona grows, so will the opportunities at Laureate Park Elementary. It’s already a school that exceeds expectations—and it’s only just getting started.
For families looking for a school that combines academic rigor with creativity, values community as much as curriculum, and prepares children to thrive in a dynamic world, Laureate Park Elementary is a bright and beautiful beginning.
Learn More at: https://laureateparkes.ocps.net/
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David Myers 407-801-3286
