Lancaster Elementary opened the current school year with Principal Carmen Dottavio reaffirming her commitment to leading the Tigers to proficiency and beyond. The school participated in OCPS's Black History Month celebration and the district-wide Let's Read challenge. Lancaster is running its full OCPS programming including Gifted and Talented services and after-school extended learning. Principal Dottavio's emphasis on empowering young scholars is reflected in the school's regular family outreach and parent participation events. Families can connect with the Tiger community through ParentSquare and the official school website at lancasteres.ocps.net.

Q1. Who is the principal of Lancaster Elementary and what is her background?

Ans. Lancaster Elementary is led by Principal Carmen Dottavio, who brings 19 years of OCPS experience as a fourth-grade teacher, fifth-grade teacher, math and science coach, and assistant principal. She describes her role as building strong relationships with parents, scholars, and the community, with a clear mission of leading the Tigers to proficiency and beyond.

Q2. Does Lancaster Elementary have a GATE program?

Ans. Lancaster Elementary does offer a Gifted and Talented program through Orange County Public Schools. Families who feel their child may qualify should speak with the classroom teacher. Principal Dottavio specifically emphasizes empowering young scholars and preparing them to succeed, and the GATE program reflects that commitment.

Q3. What bilingual support does Lancaster Elementary offer?

Ans. Lancaster Elementary serves a student body that is 96% minority, with a large share of Hispanic students. Bilingual and ELD instruction runs throughout the school day consistent with OCPS policy, and the school participates in OCPS parent engagement events that include bilingual family resources.

Q4. How does Lancaster Elementary communicate with families?

Ans. Lancaster Elementary uses ParentSquare for school-wide communications. The official school website at lancasteres.ocps.net is also maintained with school news, events, and resources. Families can reach the school office directly during school hours for information about programs and enrollment.

Q5. What middle school do Lancaster Elementary students attend?

Ans. Lancaster Elementary students typically continue to an OCPS middle school serving the Sheryl Ann Drive area, then on to an OCPS high school. Families should confirm the current feeder assignment with OCPS enrollment.