Odyssey Charter School - Elementary Campus

The Tale of Two Kaylas: One Gift, Two Lives Forever Changed for Kayla Young and Kayla Senick - Space Coast Daily In every community, there are moments that define who we are—not just through words, but through action.

Dear Odyssey Families,

Every so often, a moment arises that reminds us of the extraordinary strength and compassion within our Odyssey family. Today, I am reaching out to share one of those moments—and to invite our community to come together in support of two of our own.

Some of you may know Kayla Young, a dedicated instructional assistant at Odyssey Preparatory Academy, a loving mother of two, and a cherished member of our school family. After the loss of her husband, Steve, in 2022, Kayla has continued to show remarkable resilience. She is now facing a new life challenge: the need for a kidney transplant.

In an incredible act of selflessness, another member of our Odyssey family—Kayla Senick, a social worker at Odyssey Charter Elementary School, mother of four, and foster mom to two—stepped forward without hesitation. After testing, she learned she is a match and has chosen to donate her kidney to Kayla Young. Their surgery is scheduled for June 24.

This story is more than a medical event. It is a testament to compassion, courage, and the power of community. As both Kaylas prepare for the journey ahead, we are rallying around them to ensure they feel supported every step of the way.

Ways to Support our two Kaylas:
Meal Train for the Senick Family: https://www.mealtrain.com/trains/ne44ze
GoFundMe for Kayla Young: https://www.gofundme.com/f/two-kaylas-one-miracle

Even if you are unable to donate, simply sharing their story or keeping both families in your thoughts makes a meaningful difference.

Thank you for being a community that leads with heart. Your kindness and unity continue to define what makes Odyssey so special.

With much gratitude,
Ms. Constance
School Founder

May 2026 — During National Charter Schools Week, Florida celebrated the continued success of charter schools across the state!

According to the Florida Department of Education, charter school students outperformed traditional public schools in the majority of academic comparisons, with strong gains in English Language Arts and math. More than 400,000 students are now enrolled in Florida charter schools — a record high that reflects growing family confidence in school choice and innovative learning opportunities.

We are proud to be part of Florida’s charter school community and remain committed to helping every child thrive through academic excellence, strong character, and meaningful learning experiences.

Last evening at the Annual Founder’s Awards Ceremony, Odyssey Founder Ms. Constance Ortiz, the Odyssey Board of Directors, school administrators, and members of the Odyssey community proudly recognized Jordan Parker as the 2026 Café Employee of the Year.

Jordan has been a dedicated member of the Odyssey café team since 2017, beginning as a driver delivering scratch-made meals during the first year of service to a Titusville school before transitioning to the Wyoming campus as a server. Throughout the years, she has consistently demonstrated positivity, flexibility, and a willingness to help wherever needed.

Recently stepping into the demanding role of Café Chef, Jordan now helps prepare two meals daily for approximately 1,700 students and staff. Arriving each morning at 6:00 a.m., she manages breakfast and lunch preparation while handling the many challenges that arise throughout the day with determination and professionalism.

Her dedication, strong work ethic, and commitment to serving students and staff make her an invaluable member of the Odyssey family. Congratulations, Jordan, on this well-deserved recognition!

Mrs. Traci Schoor’s 4th grade science time A had the unique opportunity this spring to investigate growing hydroponic lettuce!

Thanks to generous donations from the Yellow Dog cafe, who contributed all the necessary nutrients and pH adjustment materials, l these 4th graders were able to set up their own hydroponic tower and grow Tropicana lettuce, one of the long time staples for Odyssey’s farm and garden program.

Last evening at the Annual Founder’s Awards Ceremony, Odyssey Founder Ms. Constance Ortiz, the Odyssey Board of Directors, school administrators, and members of the Odyssey community proudly honored Deb Berg with two extraordinary recognitions — the 2026–2027 Founder’s Mission Award and the Florida Consortium of Public Charter Schools Charter School Champion Award.

As Assistant Principal, Deb has been a driving force behind Odyssey’s whole-child mission, supporting students academically, emotionally, and personally through her leadership in MTSS, ESE, and Title I. Her compassion, wisdom, humility, and unwavering commitment to children have made a lasting impact on students, families, teachers, and staff across the Odyssey community.

After more than 30 years in education, Deb is retiring this year, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, service, and love for children that will continue to shape Odyssey for years to come.

Congratulations, Mrs. Berg, on these incredibly well-deserved honors. Thank you for the extraordinary difference you have made in the lives of so many.

Last evening at the Annual Founder’s Awards Ceremony, Odyssey Founder Ms. Constance Ortiz, the Odyssey Board of Directors, school administrators, and members of the Odyssey community proudly recognized Alia Hartwick as the 2026 OCS, Inc. Founder’s Award Administrator of the Year.

As Montessori Village Green and Enrichment Director, Alia has demonstrated exceptional leadership, creativity, and commitment to academic excellence over the past five years. Her innovative ideas and collaborative leadership style have strengthened early childhood programs and enriched the educational experience for students and families.

Alia embodies the values of collaboration, respect, responsibility, and empathy, making her truly deserving of this honor.

Congratulations, Alia, on this well-deserved recognition and thank you for the positive impact you continue to make throughout the Odyssey community.

Last evening at the Annual Founder’s Awards Ceremony, Odyssey Founder Ms. Constance Ortiz, the Odyssey Board of Directors, school administrators, and members of the Odyssey community proudly recognized Renee Frater-Vernon as the 2026 OCS Elementary Founder’s Award Teacher of the Year.

Renee’s impact on student achievement has been extraordinary. Through innovative instruction and strong leadership, she has helped students achieve tremendous growth in reading while also supporting schoolwide reciprocal teaching initiatives.

Beyond academics, Renee is deeply respected by students, families, and colleagues for her kindness, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to excellence. She truly embodies the spirit and mission of Odyssey Charter School.

Congratulations, Renee, on this well-deserved recognition and thank you for the incredible difference you make for our students each and every day.