Welcome Back from our Principal, Ms. Miedona
Dear Families,
As we close another remarkable school year, I want to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude to our students, families, teachers, and staff for making this year such a success. Together, we have accomplished so much, and I couldn't be more proud of our school community.
This year, our students demonstrated tremendous growth, perseverance, and dedication to learning. Thanks to their hard work and the unwavering commitment of our talented teachers and staff, we made impressive academic gains across our school. While it appears we may have missed earning an "A" school grade by just one percentage point, I view this as a testament to how far we have come and how close we are to reaching that important milestone. Our students and teachers have much to celebrate, and I am incredibly proud of their achievements.
As we look ahead, we are excited to welcome several new members to our staff who will bring fresh ideas, enthusiasm, and expertise to our school family. I am confident that together we will continue to build upon our successes and make the coming school year our best yet.
For now, I hope each of you enjoys a well-deserved summer filled with laughter, relaxation, and special moments with family and friends. Summer is a wonderful time to recharge, explore new adventures, and create lasting memories.
And, of course, don't forget to read! Reading throughout the summer helps students maintain their skills, sparks imagination, and prepares them for a strong start in the fall. Required summer reading information is available below.
Thank you for your continued support, partnership, and trust. It is truly an honor to serve as your principal. I look forward to welcoming everyone back for another exciting and successful school year.
Wishing you a safe, happy, and memorable summer!
Warm regards,
Shelly Miedona
Principal, Odyssey Preparatory Academy
Summer Registration: Required for All Odyssey Prep Families
July 21 (10 a.m. - 6 p.m.) - OPA Summer Registration in the Café
Please be prepared to complete the following for your student(s):
- Income Verification Form
- Questions Regarding Bus Assignment
- Final Class Placement
- Before and After-Care Registration
- Health Card
- All “Dress for Success,” school conduct, cell phone, technology, and bus behavior agreements
Odyssey Preparatory Academy Fees 2026-2027 School Year
Student Fees for Kindergarten through 5th grade will be $15.
Please bring a check to registration made out to Odyssey Preparatory Academy and include Student Fees in the memo line OR you can pay through our online payment portal at the school.
Student Fees Include:
- • $4 Copy Paper, Writing Journal / Folder
- • $2 Interactive Notebook OR Fine Black Expo Markers (K-2)
- • $6 Technology
- • $3 Student ID, pouch, & lanyard (includes 1 replacement)
FOR ALL Kindergarten and NEW students to Brevard County
The following documents must be provided in order to successfully complete the registration process for the 2026-2027 school year, which begins August 10, 2026:
- Birth Certificate
- Physical - School Physicals MUST be dated within one year of the first day of the next school year – August 10, 2026.
- Current Immunization records
- Legal Guardianship/Custody documents (if applicable)
- Current copy of IEP, EP or 504 (if applicable)
Dress Out of Uniform Days
Students have an opportunity to dress out of uniform on the last Friday of each month. Reminder, please ensure that your student follows the Brevard Public Schools dress code for out of uniform days. This year, our Dress Out of Uniform Days will be on the below dates:
Preliminary School Grade
Preliminary School Grade based on the students who count towards the calculation.
| Projected School Grade - OPA (K-5) | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | ELA | Math | 3rd ELA | 5th Science |
| Proficiency | 64% | 61% | 62% | 64% |
| LG | 61% | 67% | — | — |
| L25% Learning Gains | 59% | 50% | — | — |
| School Grade | 61% = B | 24/25 = 57% B | ||
FY26 Odyssey Preparatory Academy - Percentage of Students Achieving Passing Scores Posted on the State Portal
| Grade Level | English Language Arts Achievement | Mathematics Achievement | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OPA | Brevard | State | OPA | Brevard | State | |
| K | 71% | 58% | 59% | 79% | 66% | 67% |
| 1 | 56% | 61% | 61% | 58% | 65% | 65% |
| 2 | 68% | 59% | 54% | 77% | 65% | 63% |
| 3 | 73% | 63% | 60% | 71% | 66% | 66% |
| 4 | 68% | 61% | 60% | 59% | 62% | 65% |
| 5 | 59% | 62% | 61% | 59% | 58% | 62% |
| Grade Level | OPA Science | Brevard | State |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 64% | 64% | 60% |
Required Summer Reading
About Our Required Summer Reading Program
Our program is designed to build reading stamina, expand vocabulary, strengthen comprehension, and spark curiosity about history, literature, and character. As our nation celebrates America’s 250th anniversary, students will have the opportunity to explore books independently and continue growing into confident, lifelong readers.
- For Young Readers: Rising Kindergarten and 1st Grade students may enjoy books read aloud by a parent or caregiver.
- Expanding Your Library: We encourage students to read beyond the required book, additional titles can be borrowed from your local public library. Families may also choose to purchase books through bookstores like Barnes & Noble, or online via Amazon or Thriftbooks.
- Our Long-Term Goal: By the end of sixth grade, our goal is for every Odyssey student to read confidently across a wide variety of genres. Each book completed helps prepare students not only for the rigor of middle school, but for a lifetime of learning, imagination, and discovery.
Summer Reading Recognition
Required: Read 1 book. Scholar: Read 2 books. Scholar of Distinction: Read 3 books, including 1 book that is above your student’s rising grade-level Lexile band. Students must finish 1 Choice Board activity for each book read in K-2 and two Choice Board activities for each book read in grades 3-6. Students who complete two books for Summer Reading will be recognized as Scholars and those who complete the additional assignment will be recognized as Scholars of Distinction at the beginning of the school year.
While we highly encourage students to read multiple books this summer, reading at least one book from the list is required. The summer reading lists, parent letter and choice board activities can be found at https://odysseyschools.com/opa-summer-reading.html.
Thank you for partnering with us in this important work. Together, we can make this a summer filled with imagination, growth, and a love of reading!
Student Placement
As a reminder, a great deal of time, effort and thought has gone into the process of student class assignments for the 2026-2027 school year, beginning with input from our teaching staff. Careful consideration was given to student placement and learning styles. Classrooms have been balanced academically and socially. Our class lists are structured to provide equitable class sizes at each grade level. Moving students is difficult without causing imbalances and inequities.
Meet the Leadership Team
Ms. Shelly Miedona, Principal
We are proud to recognize Ms. Shelly Miedona, principal of Odyssey Preparatory Academy. With 29 years of experience in education, she holds certifications in K–5 Elementary Education, Educational Leadership, Reading, ESOL, School Principal, and Gifted endorsement. As she begins her sixth year at OPA, Ms. Miedona has led significant growth in the Gifted and Talented program, doubling student participation. Her commitment to a supportive, collaborative school culture is reflected in the words of one student: “Thank you for making OPA a home away from home.”
Mr. John Haddan, Assistant Principal
Odyssey Preparatory Academy proudly welcomes Mr. John Haddan as Assistant Principal. With 31 years in education and more than a decade of leadership experience, he brings a student-centered approach and commitment to excellence. Mr. Haddan holds advanced degrees in Curriculum and Instruction and Technology Integration and is dedicated to fostering a positive school culture where all students feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed.
Mr. Jose Padilla, Discipline Dean
Jose Padilla has been a valued member of the Odyssey Charter Schools community for 17 years, serving as a teacher, Dean of Students, and Safety Officer. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education, Master’s degrees in Elementary Education and Educational Leadership, and K–12 teaching certification. Jose is committed to fostering a safe, supportive learning environment and building strong relationships with students, staff, and families.
Mrs. Tia Whiteman, Academic Coach
Ms. Tia Whiteman brings over 10 years of educational experience as a classroom teacher, Assistant Principal, and Senior Education Consultant in New York City. Since joining Odyssey Preparatory Academy as an Instructional Coach in November 2025, she has partnered with staff to support academic initiatives, facilitate professional learning, and use student achievement data to guide instructional decisions. Passionate about data-driven instruction and continuous improvement, Ms. Whiteman is committed to helping educators maximize student achievement and ensuring every student is challenged, supported, and empowered to succeed.
Dr. Carmean Matthews
Dr. Matthews joins Odyssey Preparatory Academy with more than 10 years of educational experience in literacy, special education, curriculum development, and instructional coaching. She has a strong background in professional learning, curriculum implementation, and instructional support, and is passionate about empowering teachers, fostering collaboration, and improving student achievement. As an Academic Coach, Dr. Matthews is dedicated to supporting instructional excellence, promoting meaningful learning experiences, and helping all students reach their full potential.
Parent/Student Handbook
Please take a moment to review our Parent/Student Handbook. It is full of important information for you and your student and is available on our website at https://odysseyschools.com/climate.html.
Moment of Silence
Florida House Bill 529 requires a moment of silence to be set aside for public school students during each school day. We will set aside 1-2 minutes daily for a moment of silence during morning announcement following The Pledge of Allegiance. The bill does not allow teachers to make suggestions about the nature of a student’s reflection during these moments. Parent should discuss the moment of silence with their children and make suggestions to their children about how they should use this time. Students may not interfere with each other’s participation in the moment of silence. View the bill HERE.
Electronic Devices
To keep the focus on academics and to reduce unnecessary distractions, the school enforces the following regarding personal cell phone use on school campus:
- Cell phones and all mobile devices shall be TURNED OFF when entering school campus.
- Cell phones and all mobile devices shall be kept in a student’s backpack – not in clothing pockets.
- Cell phones and all mobile devices are not allowed to be used in a classroom, library, common areas, or restrooms.
- Cell phones and all mobile devices are not allowed to be used during transition times or between classes.
Uniform Policy (Grades K-5)
All Odyssey Prep students are required to wear a school uniform. Our uniforms can be purchased from our uniform provider: All Uniform Wear (Address: 4335 W New Haven Ave, West Melbourne, FL 32904). Please be certain you select Odyssey Preparatory Academy uniforms and not Odyssey Charter School uniforms. You can find our uniform policy on our website HERE.
- As part of our uniform requirement, students must wear their issued ID badge/lanyard at all times while on campus.
- All students are required to wear full-length solid-colored pants, shorts, skirts or skorts. Inappropriately rolling or altering the pants in any way is in direct violation of the dress code. Shorts, skirts and skorts length must be at least mid-thigh.
- Pants, shorts, skirts and skorts that are too big or too tight, as determined by Administration, are not acceptable and will be deemed in violation of the uniform code. Joggers are allowed. Jeans, stretch pants, and athletic wear are not allowed. Students may wear solid-color leggings under uniform shorts or skorts, but leggings worn alone as pants are not permitted.
- Students must wear an approved t-shirt, collared polo shirt, or dress shirt. Student shirts must be a solid color and in accordance with the individual schools’ uniform guide below. All shirts must bear the School logo.
- Any attire, including backpacks, displaying gang related paraphernalia or symbols, profanity or any inappropriate logos or displays are strictly prohibited.
- All headgear (hats, scarves, bandanas etc.) are prohibited on school property.
- Shoes must be closed or be strapped in the back. Flip-flops, slippers, or high heel shoes are prohibited.
- If a student chooses or needs to wear a jacket or sweatshirt due to cold weather, it must be a solid color of blue, black, or grey and in accordance with the individual schools’ uniform guide below.
Fresh Meals, Happy Students!
At our school, we know that nutritious meals help students learn, grow, and thrive. That's why we're proud to offer delicious breakfast and lunch options prepared daily in our scratch kitchen. Our culinary team uses quality ingredients to create fresh, flavorful meals that students enjoy and families can feel good about.
Even better, all students can receive free breakfast and lunch throughout the school year, ensuring every child has access to healthy, balanced meals each day. This year, every student will have the opportunity to walk through the breakfast and lunch line and is encouraged to try our delicious menu offerings. We invite all students to enjoy our freshly prepared meals—it's like enjoying a home-cooked meal at school!
Our commitment to student well-being extends beyond the cafeteria. Through our School Wellness Policy, we promote healthy eating habits, nutrition education, physical activity, and a positive school environment that supports the overall health and success of every student.
From hearty breakfasts to satisfying lunches, we're dedicated to fueling student success with food that nourishes both body and mind. We look forward to serving our students another year of great meals, healthy choices, and academic achievement.
Families can find our Wellness Policy and monthly menus on our website: https://odysseyschools.com/cafe.html.
We also encourage families to send healthy snacks, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, to support our wellness initiatives. Please note that reminders may be sent home if students bring snacks that do not align with the school's Wellness Policy.
Bus Transportation
Odyssey Charter Schools provides bus transportation to students who live between two and four miles from the school – more miles might be allotted as per established bus routes. Bus registration is online and computers will be available during summer registration.
Each student is allowed one designated bus stop. Changes to assigned routes or bus transportation needs will not be permitted until a parent/guardian with proper ID completes a new registration form.
Here is a snapshot of the enhanced Transportation Services for the 2026-2027 school year:
1) Student Grade-Level Identification Cards (ID badges). Each Odyssey student will receive one ID card at the start of the school year. Students are required to always wear their IDs at all times.
2) Online Student Transportation Registration (eZRouting). eZRouting is an online registration tool to help families sign up for bus transportation annually. This means that you will not have to fill out forms at school to apply for transportation.
3) Student Tracker System (Here Comes the Bus). This system will give you a “real-time” notification when your student’s bus is within 100 yards of the stop. The system will send “real-time” notification to your phone or computer when your student scans his/her ID upon entry to or exit from the bus.
If you have additional questions or concerns, please call Ms. Rosie Greer, Fleet Coordinator, below.
Rosie Greer, Fleet Coordinator
greerr@odysseycharterschool.com
321-345-4117 option 3
321-338-5187 cell
We Need You for our Clubs/Extra-Curricular
Do you have a special talent you can share with our students for nine (9) weeks out of the school year after school? Our Before and After School Enrichment Program offers a variety of afterschool club opportunities to our students. Look for information to come out in September and December on our available clubs for the 2026-2027 school year. Parents with a special talent or skill may volunteer to lead one of the clubs listed below or may suggest a club. Please help us enrich our deserving students’ education. At our summer registration, parents will have an opportunity to sign up to sponsor a club.
Possible Club Offerings
Odyssey Prep Academy Supply Lists
Supply lists can be found on our website at the link below.
Grade Level Supply ListsParents as Partners (PasP) – Get Involved!
Parents as Partners (PasP) is a collaborative effort between parents, teachers, and administrators, working together to support student success and enhance the overall school experience. This dedicated committee develops ideas, plans programs, and strengthens our school community through meaningful family engagement and volunteer opportunities.
We are currently seeking a volunteer to serve as this year’s PasP Chairperson—a vital leadership role that helps guide and grow the program. Whether you can give a little time or a lot, your involvement truly makes a difference!
Interested in joining or learning more?
Stop by the PasP table during registration on July 23rd, or contact Mr. John Haddan at haddanj@odysseyprepacademy.com.
When families and schools work together, students thrive. We invite you to be part of this important partnership and help make this school year the best one yet!
Odyssey Parent Volunteer Hours: Let the Friendly Competition Begin!
For the 26–27 school year, we’re excited to continue a friendly competition between Odyssey Preparatory Academy, Odyssey Jr/Sr High, and Odyssey Elementary to see which campus will have the highest percentage of parents completing their expected volunteer hours by the end of the year!
Earn Hours by Reading Newsletters!
Staying informed just got more rewarding! You can now earn 30 minutes of volunteer credit simply by reading our newsletters, including updates from the Classroom, School, Wellness, and Green Apple.
How it Works:
- Look for the Parent Volunteer QR code at the end of each newsletter.
- Scan the code or click the link to complete a quick survey.
- Once submitted, your name will be logged, and 30 minutes will be added to your family’s volunteer hours by the front office staff.
Volunteer Hour Requirements:
- 18 hours for families with one student
- 25 hours for families with multiple students
More Ways to Get Involved:
- Classroom Parent – Assist teachers with classroom needs
- Field Trip Volunteer – Help supervise off-campus learning adventures
- Annual 5K
- Read Aloud Club – Share your love of reading with your child
- Sponsor a Club – Share your talent with our students
- Attend Parent Educational Nights and/or Meetings – It takes a village – let’s support our schools and make them the best they can be!
- Guest Speakers & Mentors – Present career talks, lead workshops, or mentor students
Why Your Involvement Matters:
Research shows that when parents are engaged in school life, students thrive—with improved grades, attendance, behavior, and social skills. Your time and effort directly support your child’s success! You can find more information on our website on volunteering by clicking the link: https://odysseyschools.com/volunteer.html.
Ready to Start Earning Hours?
Click the link or scan the QR code below to start logging your volunteer hours today:
Log Volunteer HoursLet’s see which campus will come out on top—Prep, Jr/Sr High, or Elementary. The race is on, and every minute counts!
Fingerprinting Required for Classroom & Field Trip Volunteers
Volunteering at OPA in the classroom or on a field trip requires fingerprinting. Please go to the Brevard County Schools website: www.brevardschools.org.
- Click the Parents & Students heading.
- Scroll down to Volunteer Information and click on the link.
- On the left of the screen, click on the Fingerprint link. The volunteer application is at the bottom of the page.
- Complete the Application ($35 for the first year, $8 for renewals).
- After completing the application and payment, please visit District and School Security, 2700 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera, FL 32940. Hours are Monday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. No appointment is necessary.
If you are planning to chaperone any field trip, please complete this process as soon as possible so it is completed before any field trips might occur.
Before and After-School Enrichment Programs
We are delighted to offer our Before and After School Enrichment program to our families who need it. Registration forms are available in the front office of Odyssey Preparatory Academy.
New Registration Fee Requirements for the 2026–2027 School Year:
Due to rising operational costs, we have updated our registration fee structure for this school year. The registration fee helps cover enrollment processing, student records management, Procare services, and administrative costs associated with maintaining student accounts.
The annual registration fee will be divided into two payments:
- Enrollment Registration Fee – $100 due prior to your child's attendance in August.
- Mid-Year Registration Fee – Remainder of $30 for one child (or $55 for two or more children) due upon returning from Winter Break in January.
The registration fee is $130.00 for one child or $155.00 per family with two or more children.
Before and After-Care payments remain due every Monday and may be paid through the Procare app, by check, or by money order. Please submit online payments through Procare or deliver checks and money orders to the front office.
Weekly Rate: $45.00
Before-Care begins at 6:00 am. Students participate in art, a variety of team-based games, and social fun. Every student enjoys a healthy breakfast in the café before the school day commences at 7:30 am.
Weekly Rate: $80.00
After-Care is available to students until 6:30 pm each day, and every student is provided a healthy snack. Students are grouped by grade levels and activities include art projects, fun with movement, nature trail, digital learning, and homework support.
Weekly Rate: $90.00
Full time Before/After-Care is available from 6:00 am-7:30 am and after school through 6:30 pm daily.
For more information about Before and After-Care Enrichment at Odyssey Preparatory Academy, please contact Enrichment Site Supervisor, Anneisa Nieves at NievesA@odysseycharterschool.com.
Substitutes
We are always looking for parents or community members to join our OPA family. We need positive, driven individuals looking to make an impact in our Olympians’ daily scholastic goals. Training is provided. Substitute teaching rates are as follows: HS Diploma ($100/day; $50/half day); Bachelor’s Degree ($120/day; $60/half day); Certified Teacher Substitute ($160/day; $80/half day). If you are interested in joining our team as a substitute, please contact Ms. Shelly Miedona at MiedonaS@odysseyprepacademy.com.
Grievance Procedure
- Step 1: Request Teacher conference to clarify issue
- Step 2: Contact the Principal if unresolved with the teacher
- Step 3: Contact Board Designated Parent Representative – TBD
- Step 4: Contact the President of the Governing Board
- Step 5: Present issue at the next monthly Board Meeting if unresolved
- Step 6: Seek mediation with the Sponsor
The Representative to Facilitate Parental Involvement, provide access to information, assist parents and others with questions and concerns, and resolve disputes according to charter requirements, will be determined by the OCS Board of Directors at the beginning of the 2026-2027 school year.