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A colorful graphic announces 'DCS Spirit Week' with daily themes.
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The 5th Annual School Spirit Run is officially set for Saturday, February 7, 2026. We can’t wait to see our community come together in full stride!

Register Today!
The word 'STELLAR' is displayed in a stylized font against a dark background.

OCPS Stellar Awards – Celebrating Excellence

On Friday, January 30, the Orange County Public Schools community will gather at the Rosen Shingle Creek for the annual Stellar Awards, an event dedicated to honoring outstanding staff who exemplify the highest standards in supporting all of our students. This year, more than 500 stellar educators and school & district support staff will be celebrated for their dedication and impact, including 19 exceptional finalists who stood out among their peers.

Click here to learn more about the honorees and finalists.
Colorful graphic with text that reads Magnet Programs

Magnet Application Window Now Open!

OCPS magnet programs reflect the diversity of the district and are designated to attract students from across the district. The Magnet Application window will be open from October 13 and close on December 19.

Click here to learn more!
Image features the text 'Scholastic Academies' with a dark blue header.

Scholastic Academies Application Window Now Open!

Scholastic Academies are specialized educational pathways within Orange County Public Schools that offer students unique learning experiences focused on specific themes such as STEM, the arts, business, tourism, marine science, esports, and more. The Scholastic Academy Application is open from October 13 through December 19.

Click here to learn more!
A family looks at a smartphone, with colorful icons floating above it.

What is ParentSquare?

ParentSquare is a unified communication platform that offers a variety of tools that allow the district, school administrators and teachers to more effectively communicate and engage with families and students.

Click here to learn more!
A parent and child look at a laptop screen together.
A woman with curly hair smiles, with text that says 'New Student?'

Parents, now is the time!

At OCPS, we believe that every student deserves a thriving future, and it all starts with the right educational foundation. Click below to enroll your child and become part of a community that’s united in purpose and passionate about student success.

Enroll Now!
A family of four smiles for a photo, with the words 
Community Connect visible in the foreground.

Need to Locate Resources? You can search for free or reduced cost programs such as food, housing, mental health, education programs, and other social services provided directly by Community Based Organizations.

Click here to learn more!
Students are seen in a cafeteria setting, possibly eating lunch.
Hands typing on a laptop keyboard, close-up view.

OCPS Parent Portal Concerns?

If you are experiencing issues with an OCPS Parent Portal Application (i.e. Skyward Family Access, Canvas Parent) please click below for support.

Parent Portal Concerns Form

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Latest News

Stay up to date on the latest news, events and more with the ParentSquare app!

Upcoming Events

View the full calendar to see all events happening in the next few weeks and months!

School Profile

The entrance to Hiawassee Elementary School, a brick building with a blue sky background.

Vision: Every student graduates prepared and inspired for a thriving future.

Mission: Together with our families and the community, we empower students with a superior academic experience, essential life skills, and boundless opportunities.

Address: 6800 Hennepin Blvd. Orlando, FL  32818

Phone: 407-296-6410

Principal: Mrs. Forrester Watts

Mascot: Blaze the Hawk

Colors: Royal Blue and Yellow

School Hours: 8:15 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Grades: Pre-Kindergarten – 5th

Principal’s Message
A smiling woman with hoop earrings poses for a portrait.

Hello Hiawassee!

 

  I am overjoyed and proud to celebrate an achievement that speaks volumes: our school earned a state Grade of B ~a milestone not reached since 2013, and (🎶drumroll please) we also met our SWD state goal. This is not just a rating—it’s a reflection of the heart, hustle, and hope that define our school community.

 

Last year, our theme was "Out of This World: Teaching, Learning, and Service", and you truly delivered. Ensuring students read with purpose, did their homework and mastered their sight words and/or math facts; with your compassion, and relentless drive, we launched students to new heights. 🚀

 

As we prepare for the new school year, our theme is: "Journey to Success: Fueling the Fire, Blazing the Trail!" 🔥Together, we’ll ignite student potential, spark curiosity, and continue forging pathways for every child to thrive.

 

To our unstoppable staff—your dedication fuels this mission every day. To our amazing families—your support makes this journey possible. You are the heart of this success story, and together—we’re climbing even higher. Let’s keep showing up every day and keep the fire burning and the trail blazing...on our way to an "A".

 

 

With gratitude and excitement

Mrs. Forrester Bennett Watts

Your Proud Principal