Orange County Disaster Rebuild is hosting the 5th Annual Taste of the Holidays on November 16th at the Orange County Convention and Expo Center.

They are looking for food establishments in Orange County interested in participating to contact them at 409-745-9719. They are hoping to have more than 30 vendors at this year’s event.

Tickets go on sale the first week in October.

The Orange County Tax Office released its updated trust property list.

They are accepting minimum bid amounts only at this time. According to the tax district, if properties do not sell, the may be sold at a reduced amount at our next online tax resale auction in 2024.

Please call for more information. 409-882-7971

WOCCISD is proud to announce the launch of our innovative and fully equipped mobile learning lab, a solution funded by the Elementary and Secondary Emergency Relief (ESSER) grant. Pioneered by Dr. Alicia Sigee, Director of Student Services at WOCCISD, the new mobile classroom is committed to providing an adaptable learning environment for various learning needs and community engagement.

The mobile classroom redefines traditional learning methods. This state-of-the-art vehicle boasts two slide-outs, three touch-screen television monitors, comfortable seating, and a versatile table that can be removed to create more space for students. Additionally, the unit includes a restroom, a kitchenette, a back room with pull-down seats, and an ADA wheelchair elevator, ensuring an inclusive learning environment for all. Finally, the classrooms are outfitted with dry-erase boards and touchscreen monitors to allow teaching on every surface. This innovative vehicle transforms learning into an engaging, interactive experience that can stand alone entirely with four AC units and a generator onboard.

The primary focus of this vehicle will be the expansion of the successful “Read and Roll” program, particularly during the crucial summer months of the learning slide; however, we plan that this mobile unit will have many uses throughout the year.

“The “Read and Roll” program is already established as an impactful community initiative and has been a cornerstone of WOCCISD’s commitment to student learning loss,” stated Dr. Alicia Sigee.  “Operating during the summer, the program combines literacy initiatives with meals and community service opportunities for student groups. By going directly into the neighborhoods where students live and play, the program ensures accessibility and community engagement.”

Other initiatives the vehicle will be used for include but are not limited to

Community Resilience: During crises such as hurricanes and disasters, the lab transforms into a disaster command unit and feeding site, providing vital support to the community.

Community Engagement: The lab enhances community engagement through an enrollment hub for parents, local parades, family nights, and parent education initiatives.

Education Empowerment: Parent education sessions on platforms like Skyward and insights into grading periods provide parents with tools to participate in their child’s education.

Comprehensive Events: From “Back to School at LCSO” to FASFA Nights, the lab facilitates diverse community programs such as meet-the-programs nights and mobile job fairs.

“We are thrilled to introduce this groundbreaking diverse mobile classroom,” said WOCCISD Superintendent Dr. Rickie Harris. “Our goal is to provide an educational space that accommodates various learning styles and ensures that every student feels welcome and included. This vehicle embodies our dedication to delivering a high-quality education beyond traditional boundaries.”

This innovative mobile learning lab embodies WOCCISD’s dedication to adapting and evolving to meet the changing needs of students, families, and the community. It symbolizes resilience, innovation, and commitment to empowering lives through excellence every day!