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Osceola County School First in Florida to Earn National Honors From the Kennedy Center Alliance

The Kennedy Center Alliance for Arts Education Network has selected Cypress Elementary in Osceola County as one of only five schools in the nation to be named as a Creative Ticket National School of Distinction for 2005-2006 in honor of its outstanding school arts programs. This marks the first time in history any Florida school has received this award, which recognizes schools that have done an outstanding job of making the arts an essential part of the education of its students.

Cypress Elementary has been recognized at both the state and national for its arts-infused curriculum model. All kindergarten through fifth grade students at the school are engaged in self-motivating, life-long learning experiences through the performing arts program. School-wide, the students receive a sound academic education, but also an education rich in the visual arts, drama, music, theater, dance and chorus.

Teachers at Cypress Elementary not only integrate the arts into their teaching, but also guide additional after-school performing groups, often in partnership with parents. The school boasts 10 dynamic performing groups, including a dance troupe of children in wheelchairs. The school has been featured at many high-profile events, and has been involved in projects that serve as models throughout the state.

As a Creative Ticket National School of Distinction, Cypress Elementary has been invited to perform on the Millennium Stage at the Kennedy Center on March 27, 2007, in Washington, D.C.