STEMIE Center-based TA Cohort
This STEMIE Center-based targeted professional development is to ensure early childhood educators will be equipped with the skills to foster a classroom environment where children with and without disabilities can engage in meaningful and playful STEM (science, technology [computational thinking], engineering, and math) experiences.
STEMIE will provide a series of professional development, ongoing coaching, resources, and a face-to-face leadership institute over a 2-year period to UCP of Central Florida and Frankie Lemmon School. An additional two early childhood programs will be selected in 2026.
In the long term, early childhood educators in this center-based TA cohort will have the confidence and competence to support each and every child to develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Children in the program will also build a strong foundation for future academic success and a lifelong love of STEM.
UCP of Central Florida
UCP Bailes Early Childhood Academy is a nurturing and inclusive learning environment dedicated to empowering children with and without disabilities to reach their full potential. Serving children from six weeks old through Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K), our programs provide individualized support, education, and therapy tailored to each child’s unique needs.
As part of UCP of Central Florida, we believe that every child deserves equal access to an education that fosters academic, social, and emotional growth. Our inclusive approach encourages children of all abilities to learn, play, and grow together, creating a strong foundation for lifelong success.
Accredited by Cognia, a leading non-profit school accreditation board, our early childhood programs are designed to uphold the highest standards of excellence. We also recognize that families face significant challenges, and we are committed to providing support services that strengthen the home-school connection.
Located near the University of Central Florida, UCP Bailes Early Childhood Academy proudly serves students in East Orlando, Waterford Lakes, Winter Garden, Avalon Park, Bithlo, Union Park, and, when space allows, Oviedo and Winter Springs. Our mission is to ensure that every child has access to education, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive.
Frank Lemmon School
Frankie Lemmon School (FLS) is a NAEYC-accredited, 5-star child development center licensed by the state of North Carolina as a Developmental Day School. Our mission is to educate and celebrate children of all abilities.
At FLS, we provide high-quality education and enrichment for preschool-aged children with and without disabilities. Within our classrooms, children learn and grow together, forming meaningful friendships and a strong sense of belonging. Our diverse and enriched setting ensures that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Our dedicated and compassionate staff is committed to providing the very best for each child. We use a play-based curriculum, thoughtfully designed by our teachers and therapists, to foster children’s individual growth and development. Through engaging activities in art, science, math, dramatic play, literacy, language, music, and motor skills, we create rich learning experiences that inspire curiosity and confidence.
Our vision is a world where all children have the foundation to thrive, and families feel empowered with the knowledge and support they need. We value strong partnerships with families, recognizing them as the experts on their children. With mutual trust and respect, we work together to navigate available resources and ensure each child’s success.
