Teacher Professional Development with the FRLA

The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association’s Central Florida Chapter convened with the Hospitality Educators of Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) at the illustrious Valencia’s Downtown Campus. The purpose of this meeting was to unveil and discuss a collaborative initiative to enrich students’ educational journey for the upcoming 2023-2024 school year.

Under this partnership, both organizations are committed to providing OCPS students with invaluable opportunities for growth and development within the hospitality sector. The primary focus areas of this collaboration encompass internships, mentoring, and site visits, all meticulously designed to inspire and cultivate the emerging hospitality leaders of tomorrow.

Internship Opportunities: OCPS students will gain access to hands-on, immersive internships within the vibrant Central Florida hospitality industry. This experiential learning will enable them to apply classroom knowledge in real-world scenarios, fostering a deeper understanding of the field.

Mentorship Programs: Seasoned professionals from the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association’s Central Florida Chapter will serve as mentors, guiding students toward becoming accomplished hospitality leaders. These mentors will share their expertise, insights, and experiences, offering invaluable career guidance.

Inspiring Site Visits: Students will be privileged to visit some of Central Florida’s most esteemed hospitality establishments. These visits will provide a firsthand look into the industry’s inner workings, sparking inspiration and passion for hospitality careers.

With a steadfast commitment to nurturing talent, fostering growth, and preparing the next generation of hospitality professionals, this partnership between the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association’s Central Florida Chapter and Orange County Public Schools signifies a momentous step forward. The 2023-2024 school year promises to be transformative for aspiring hospitality leaders as they gain the skills, knowledge, and networks necessary to excel in this dynamic industry.

“We are thrilled to embark on this journey with Orange County Public Schools,” remarked Dan Davis, President of the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association’s Central Florida Chapter. “Our combined efforts will empower students with the tools they need to thrive in the hospitality sector, ensuring a bright and promising future for the industry.”

Shannon Latimer, Senior Administrator of Career and Technical Education for Orange County Public Schools, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “This collaboration exemplifies our commitment to providing students with real-world learning experiences. It’s an incredible opportunity for our students to learn from the best in the hospitality business.”