16 Sept 2026
20. The New Model Transforming Education in West Lakes
How can Orlando transform education while creating greater economic opportunity for entire neighborhoods?
On The City Playbook, Orlando Economic Partnership President & CEO Tim Giuliani speaks with Lift Orlando President Eddie Moriton and Orange County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Maria Vazquez about the creation of Orange Center STEAM Academy and the broader transformation underway in Orlando’s West Lakes community.
They explore the new school model, Orange Center’s expansion to K–8, early childhood education, college scholarships for Jones High School students, teacher support, community investment, and the role education can play in long-term economic mobility.
The conversation also examines how Lift Orlando and OCPS are working together to create a “laboratory of innovation” where successful ideas can support schools beyond Orange Center.
From kindergarten readiness to college access, this episode looks at what can happen when education, community development, philanthropy, and economic opportunity are treated as part of the same strategy.
Subscribe to The City Playbook for more conversations with the leaders shaping the future of Orlando and Central Florida.
The conversation also examines the measurable impact already happening across West Lakes, including:
-Childhood poverty falling from approximately 57% to 20%
-Household incomes increasing
-Kindergarten readiness reaching approximately 95% at the West Lakes
-Early Learning Center
-Orange Center enrollment growing from roughly 293 students to around 500
-New college scholarship pathways for Jones High School students
-An 86% increase in college-bound graduates connected to scholarship opportunities
-Major public and private investment in education and neighborhood infrastructure
Tim, Eddy and Dr. Vazquez also discuss why education is an economic development strategy, how concentrated poverty affects an entire regional economy and why investing in children today can strengthen Orlando’s workforce, neighborhoods and long-term competitiveness.
If you care about the future of Orlando, Central Florida, public education, economic development, school choice, neighborhood revitalization, workforce development, educational innovation or community investment, this conversation offers a fascinating look at what can happen when a city chooses to build differently.
If you enjoy conversations with the decision makers and difference makers shaping Central Florida’s future, like, comment, and subscribe to The City Playbook.
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Drop a comment with one placemaking idea you think would make the biggest difference.
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Connect with our host Tim at:
Social: https://www.instagram.com/timgiuliani/
Website: https://timgiuliani.com/
Brought to you by the Orlando Economic Partnership Learn more: https://orlando.org
