Ocassa president McHale highlights partnership initiatives at Orange County school board meeting

During the recent Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) board meeting, Amy McHale, president of the Orange County Association of School Administrators (Ocassa) and principal of Sunridge Middle School, highlighted significant achievements and future initiatives aimed at enhancing educational outcomes in the district.

McHale emphasized the importance of collaboration, noting that Ocassa's efforts this year included one-on-one meetings with each board member to align their work with the district's strategic goals. "Your insights, priorities, and commitment to students were invaluable in shaping our focus for Ocassa," she stated, underscoring the collective commitment to improving student success.

A standout initiative introduced by Ocassa is a new scholarship program for high school seniors pursuing degrees in education. McHale announced that the first two recipients, one from Oak Ridge High School and another from Timber Creek High School, would be revealed soon. This program aims to strengthen the pipeline of future educators, ensuring a well-prepared teaching workforce.

In addition to scholarships, Ocassa has ramped up its advocacy efforts, working to ensure that local educators' voices are heard in discussions about policy, funding, and resources. McHale also noted the success of their member development series, which provided training in essential areas like budget management and personal financial wellness, contributing to a membership growth to over 400 members.

Looking ahead, McHale expressed optimism about the momentum built this year and the ongoing partnership with the school board and district leadership. "Together, we're making a difference not just for today's students, but for the future of education in our community," she concluded, reinforcing the commitment to collaboration and student service.