Union Park Elementary School
General Information
About Union Park Elementary School
Union Park Elementary School, located in Orlando, Florida, is a dynamic public school dedicated to fostering academic excellence, creativity, and social development among students in grades Pre-K through 5. As part of Orange County Public Schools, Union Park Elementary offers a nurturing and inclusive learning environment that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and respect for diversity. The school emphasizes a balanced approach to education, integrating strong academic foundations in reading, math, and science with hands-on learning experiences in the arts, technology, and physical education.
Union Park Elementary is known for its commitment to individualized instruction, where every child’s strengths and learning styles are valued. The school actively engages parents and the community through events, volunteer opportunities, and partnerships that enhance the educational experience. Teachers and administrators collaborate closely to ensure students receive the best educational support possible, preparing them not only for middle school but also for lifelong success. Union Park’s vision is to inspire excellence and empower young learners to become confident, responsible, and compassionate global citizens.
Contact Informations
Address: 1600 N Dean Road, Orlando, FL 32817, United States
Phone Number: +1 407-249-6340
Email Address: unionparkes@ocps.net
School Facts
| Fact | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1962 |
| School Type | Public Elementary School |
| Motto | “Learning Today, Leading Tomorrow” |
| Grades | Pre-K – 5 |
| Principal | Mrs. Sabrina Castro |
| District | Orange County Public Schools |
Union Park Elementary School Rankings
| Ranking Type | Position |
|---|---|
| Florida Elementary Schools | Top 25% |
| National Elementary Schools | Top 40% |
Union Park Elementary School Academics
Union Park Elementary School Faculties / Departments
- English Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- Fine Arts and Music
- Physical Education
- Technology and Computer Science
- Exceptional Student Education (ESE)
- English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
- Gifted Education
Union Park Elementary School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Core Academic Curriculum (Math, Reading, Writing, Science, and Social Studies)
- Accelerated Reader Program
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) Activities
- Visual and Performing Arts
- Leadership and Character Education
- After-School Enrichment Programs
- Speech and Language Support Services
- Digital Learning and Coding Fundamentals
Online Learning
Union Park Elementary integrates technology into every classroom to support blended learning and digital literacy. Using platforms such as Google Classroom and i-Ready, students access educational content both in school and at home. While not a fully virtual institution, Union Park provides online tutoring, digital reading programs, and virtual STEM challenges to enhance learning beyond the classroom. During periods of remote instruction, teachers ensure personalized support through virtual lessons and parent communication.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| Florida Standards Assessment (Reading) | 76% Proficient |
| Florida Standards Assessment (Math) | 73% Proficient |
| Science Benchmark | 79% Proficient |
Retention and Graduation Rates
As an elementary institution, Union Park does not award diplomas, but it maintains an exceptional student promotion rate of 96%. Students consistently perform above the district average in literacy and math proficiency, and the school’s retention rate reflects its success in providing effective early education interventions and family engagement strategies.
Union Park Elementary School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Union Park Elementary School serves students within its designated attendance zone, and as an elementary school, GPA or standardized college test scores such as SAT or ACT are not required. Placement is based primarily on age, residency, and district zoning policies.
Union Park Elementary School Acceptance Rate
| Category | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| Zoned Students | 100% |
| Transfer/Choice Students | 65% |
Union Park Elementary School Application Requirements
Enrollment at Union Park Elementary is open to all students residing within the school’s attendance boundary. Parents must submit proof of residency, a birth certificate, immunization and health records, and emergency contact information. Students enrolling in specialized programs such as gifted or ESOL may require additional assessments or documentation. The school promotes transparency and assists families through every step of the enrollment process.
Application Process
- Complete the Orange County Public Schools online registration form.
- Submit required documentation (proof of residency, health forms, ID).
- Schedule a meeting with the registrar or school counselor.
- Receive placement confirmation and class schedule.
- Attend orientation and meet-the-teacher events.
Union Park Elementary School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Registration Opens | March |
| Kindergarten Enrollment Deadline | May |
| Pre-K Lottery Deadline | April |
| First Day of School | Early August |
Essay Prompt
Union Park Elementary does not require essays for admission; however, gifted and enrichment programs may include a creative writing or problem-solving exercise to evaluate higher-level thinking and creativity.
Union Park Elementary School Scholarships
Although tuition is free for public school students, Union Park Elementary partners with local organizations and charitable programs to provide financial assistance for extracurricular activities, field trips, and after-school programs. Community grants and the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) also sponsor awards for student leadership and academic excellence.
Union Park Elementary School Tuition and Fees
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition (Public Students) | Free |
| Activity Fee | $20 annually |
| After-School Program | $55 per week |
| Field Trips | Variable ($10–$40) |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
Union Park Elementary serves a culturally diverse student population of children aged 4–11. The student body consists of approximately 49% male and 51% female students. The ethnic composition reflects Orlando’s diversity, including 45% Hispanic, 25% White, 20% African American, 5% Asian, and 5% multiracial students.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Around 70% of Union Park Elementary students qualify for free or reduced lunch programs, emphasizing the school’s dedication to equitable education. The school’s Exceptional Student Education (ESE) program supports students with disabilities through individualized education plans (IEPs), speech therapy, occupational therapy, and inclusion classrooms designed for personalized attention and growth.
Student Body
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Students | 650+ |
| Students with Disabilities | 13% |
| Low-Income Students | 70% |
| English Language Learners | 18% |
University Diversity
Union Park Elementary celebrates diversity as a core value. The school hosts multicultural events such as International Week, cultural fairs, and bilingual literacy nights that highlight the languages and traditions of its students and families. Teachers integrate culturally responsive teaching practices to ensure that lessons reflect the backgrounds of all students. Through these efforts, Union Park fosters an environment of inclusion, respect, and belonging where every student feels seen and valued.
Average Earnings
While Union Park Elementary does not track post-graduation earnings, its influence on long-term academic and career success is significant. Alumni from Union Park often perform well in advanced middle and high school programs, setting a strong foundation for future academic and professional achievement. The school’s focus on 21st-century skills—such as critical thinking, teamwork, and digital literacy—helps shape capable, confident future leaders.
Union Park Elementary School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Union Park Elementary is staffed with approximately 45 dedicated educators, paraprofessionals, and administrative personnel. Teachers at Union Park are highly qualified and passionate about nurturing young minds. They receive continuous professional development to enhance instructional strategies and effectively meet the needs of diverse learners. The administrative team maintains an open-door policy, fostering collaboration between teachers, families, and students to build a cohesive school community.
Faculty Profiles (Expertise, Achievements)
The teaching staff at Union Park Elementary includes certified educators with specializations in early childhood education, special education, literacy intervention, and STEM instruction. Many have earned recognition through district awards for excellence in teaching and leadership. The principal and assistant principal actively promote a culture of innovation, encouraging teachers to use creative, research-based practices that inspire student achievement.
Union Park Elementary School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Union Park Elementary features a vibrant, well-maintained campus equipped with modern classrooms, a media center, art and music rooms, a computer lab, and outdoor play areas. The school also includes a community garden and sensory spaces designed for student wellness. While the school does not provide housing, it offers comprehensive after-school care and enrichment clubs such as robotics, art, drama, and science exploration. The supportive environment promotes both academic success and personal growth.
Transportation
Union Park Elementary provides safe and efficient transportation through Orange County Public Schools’ bus system for all zoned students. The school is conveniently accessible from nearby neighborhoods, and parents often use drop-off lanes for morning arrivals. Additionally, the campus encourages walking and biking with secure bike racks and crosswalk supervision to ensure student safety before and after school hours.