FAQ
Questions Concerning UCP
How do I go about getting services for my child at UCP of Central Florida?
Contact the center closest to you to set up an appointment with the Family Services Specialist; they will help facilitate a smooth transition into UCP of Central Florida's programs. Please bring with you any medical or educational documents regarding your child. Reviewing these materials can assist us in making sure your needs will be met by our agency.
What is a Charter School?
Charter Schools are public schools operated by an entity other than the public school system but under the supervision of the public school system. Charter Schools usually specialize in a particular area of expertise; ours is an inclusion model educating children with special needs. Tuition is free for eligible children.
How does my child qualify for "free tuition" as mentioned in UCP of Central Florida promotional materials?
Any child with an active IEP (Individual Education Plan) or IFSP (Individual Family Support Plan) that includes classroom services would qualify for "free tuition." Services that are authorized through one of these two documents would be funded through the county school system.
What is the ratio of students with special needs to "typical" students?
Overall, each center typically maintains 25% "inclusion" enrollment, which means children without special needs. Of course, this can vary from center to center or even between classrooms depending on the need for enrollment that semester.
What is the benefit to my child without special needs to enroll at your center?
Will they receive less attention in the classroom than the children with special needs?
Your child will be taught by a Bachelor's Level, ESE certified teacher - something that cannot be found in other daycare or preschool settings. Because our program is designed to meet the individual needs of each student, your child will have educational, social, and self help goals written for them just like the children in their class with special needs. Their progress will be documented quarterly for each "marking period" and parent conferences will be scheduled to keep in touch with the teacher. The inclusion program inherently instills an appreciation for diversity in children without special needs. As the youngest members of our community, your children will learn to see all of their classmates as peers.
What type of funding does UCP of Central Florida accept?
As a Charter School, we are qualified to receive funding for classroom services and therapies through the County school system or Part C (Early Steps). UCP of Central Florida also works with all forms of Medicaid, Healthy Kids, and most insurance companies. It is always a good idea to contact your insurance company in advance to see if we are on your provider list.
What curriculum does UCP of Central Florida use in the classroom?
Our agency uses the Creative Curriculum as the basis for our academic lesson plans and activities.
Is the staff at UCP of Central Florida trained to work with children that have medical needs?
All members of our staff are required to have current first aid and CPR certification. The Education staff is trained by our nurse on how to deal with things like seizures, tube feeding, and using a neubulizer. Each student with a need for medical treatments and/or monitoring during the school day will have an individual Health Care Plan and emergency plan with specific and comprehensive directions.
