Sally Ride Elementary continues operating its Aviation and Aerospace magnet program as one of the few elementary campuses in Orange County with a dedicated aerospace curriculum. The school is named after astronaut Sally Ride — the first American woman in space — and the campus builds its academic identity around that legacy. The school's Let's Read OCPS participation is active through April 2026, and the Aviation and Aerospace magnet application for the following school year is expected to open in fall through OCPS's district-wide magnet fair. Families from outside the Lake Nona area can apply through the standard OCPS magnet process.

Q1. What is the Aviation and Aerospace magnet program at Sally Ride Elementary?

Ans. Sally Ride Elementary’s Aviation and Aerospace magnet focuses on hands-on learning in flight, engineering and space exploration. Students engage in project-based science and technology experiences tied to the school's namesake astronaut Sally Ride. It's one of the few elementary magnet programs in OCPS with a dedicated aerospace focus, and it's a major reason families apply from outside the school's home neighborhood.

Q2. How do families apply to Sally Ride Elementary's magnet program?

Ans. Sally Ride Elementary takes applications through the OCPS magnet school process, which is open to all Orange County families, no matter where they live. The application window usually opens in the fall for the next school year.

Q3. Does Sally Ride Elementary have a GATE program?

Ans. Sally Ride Elementary offers a Gifted and Talented program through OCPS. With 28 full-time teachers for 406 students and a dedicated school counselor, the campus has the capacity to support GT students alongside the general population. Talk to the classroom teacher to start the referral process.

Q4. What are Sally Ride Elementary's school hours?

Ans. The office at Sally Ride Elementary is open 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Class hours run within that window. Confirm the specific start and dismissal time for students by calling (407) 858-3100 or checking the official school website at sallyridees.ocps.net.

Q5. What is the feeder pattern for Sally Ride Elementary?

Ans. Sally Ride Elementary is in the Lake Nona area of southeast Orlando. Students typically continue to South Creek Middle School and then to Cypress Creek High School. Confirm the current feeder assignment for your specific address through the OCPS school locator at ocps.net.