Vibrant Climate-Themed Mural Unveiled at OCPS Academic Center in Parramore

Inspiring Climate Art Mural Unveiling at OCPS Academic Center for Excellence

On March 11th, 2025, a remarkable event will take place at the OCPS Academic Center for Excellence in Parramore, Orlando. The unveiling of a breathtaking three-wall mural themed around climate awareness will not only enhance the school's environment but also serve as a vital symbol of environmental responsibility and local pride. The mural is the creation of renowned artist Allison Dayka, known for her impactful work with the TIME™ brand.

The Mural's Significance

The artistic installation, painted by hand, will transform a key hallway into a vibrant representation of creativity, pride, and a call to action for environmental conservation. "I believe everyone can positively impact the world by utilizing their innate skills. I use my gifts to speak to young minds because their inherent curiosity and optimism can be powerful vehicles for change," said Dayka. Her vision is to empower students with a deeper understanding of climate change and inspire them to consider their role in fostering solutions. "The children of Parramore will not only understand the problem but will also believe they can be a part of the solution."

This project is significant considering the socio-economic challenges the Parramore community faces. From poverty and crime rates to food insecurity and environmental vulnerabilities due to a lack of green spaces, residents, including students from kindergarten through eighth grade, encounter numerous hurdles daily.

Community Engagement

Mayor Buddy Dyer pointed out the importance of maintaining Orlando's beauty and ensuring future generations can thrive. He emphasized that creating a culture of environmental responsibility and civic pride is essential. He stated, "Educating students about sustainability and climate change is not optional; it is crucial. By empowering them with knowledge, we ensure that Orlando remains a resilient, forward-looking city for decades to come."

The mural project, commissioned by the VoLo Foundation in partnership with the city's Keep Orlando Beautiful initiative, aligns with a broader effort to raise awareness about climate change and environmental stewardship in Florida. This coincides with the 2025 Climate Correction™ conference taking place in Orlando.

The Power of Art

Thais López Vogel, co-founder of the VoLo Foundation, explained, "Art can touch individuals in ways that data and policies alone cannot. Climate art is not just about creating awareness but fostering emotional connections that inspire action. By engaging children through creativity, we invite them to see themselves as part of the solution. There is no future without environmental education."

About Keep Orlando Beautiful

Founded in 1997, Keep Orlando Beautiful is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Its mission is to educate and engage individuals to take greater responsibility for improving their community’s environment through litter prevention, waste reduction, recycling, and beautification efforts. The VoLo Foundation is a private, nonprofit organization based in Florida, dedicated to accelerating global change through support for science-based climate solutions, education improvement, and health enhancement.

The Historic Neighborhood of Parramore

Opened in 2017, the OCPS ACE serves as the first new school in the Parramore neighborhood in over 40 years, catering to students from preschool to eighth grade. The school was established to meet the educational needs after years without a local institution. Operating under the Community Partnership Schools model developed by the University of Central Florida (UCF) and the Florida Children's Home Society, it addresses the long-standing educational void in this historic Orlando neighborhood.

Parramore has faced numerous challenges, including economic hardship and limited access to nutritious food, as it has been classified as a food desert. Various initiatives have been implemented, including urban farms and farmer's markets, but challenges remain, especially following the closure of one urban farm serving the community.

Environmental vulnerabilities have also become a pressing issue in Parramore, where infrastructure and limited green spaces contribute to heightened challenges. The urban heat island effect severely impacts low-income communities like Parramore, leading to health issues related to extreme heat exacerbated by inadequate access to air conditioning and cooling green spaces. Poor air quality linked to nearby highways and industrial areas also poses serious health risks for residents.

In light of these pressing environmental and socio-economic issues, the upcoming mural unveiling stands as a beacon of hope—a call to action for both the students and the wider Parramore community to engage in efforts towards sustainability and resilience against climate change.