ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – Since 1994 , the Universal Education Center has been serving Orange County Public Schools students, offering a unique blend of academic coursework and real-world work experience on the Universal Orlando property.
Just steps from the roller coasters and attractions, UEC has achieved something pretty unique: A 100% graduation rate over the last four years.
Recommended Videos
This one-of-a-kind program caters to students who may not thrive in traditional high school environments. Whether they struggle with large class sizes, face attendance challenges, or are seeking a fresh start, UEC provides a tailored solution.
“We typically get students that are just looking for a different way to finish school,” said Jay Verdesca, lead teacher at UEC. “They might be falling behind in a big class, but they also have a strong desire to work and gain experience.”
Balancing School and Work
At UEC, students divide their time between academics and jobs across the Universal Orlando Resort. Students earn both high school credits and real-world experience.
“They get three credits for working,” Verdesca explained. Students attend classes in core subjects such as math, science, social studies, and English, while also working in customer-facing roles across the park.
“For many of them, it’s their very first job ever,” Verdesca said.
Students are supported by an on-the-job training teacher, who provides feedback on customer service skills and other work-related tasks. Universal employees also mentor the students. Students and mentors meet weekly.
A Fresh Start for Many Students
UEC is particularly designed for students who need a different approach to education. Some may have attendance issues, while others struggle academically in a traditional setting. One student shared how the program turned things around for her.
“I was struggling a lot to do my work on time. I didn’t know if I was going to be able to do that any longer, but public school was really scary,” said senior Ella Ben. After discovering UEC, she found it to be “a perfect fit.”
The smaller class sizes at UEC are a big part of what makes the program successful. With only five-to-ten students per class, students receive a lot of individual attention.
“You can’t not do your assignment because your teacher is sitting right next to you,” Verdesca said.
More Than a Diploma
Beyond academics, UEC opens students’ eyes to future career opportunities. The partnership with Universal provides students with first-hand experience in the workforce, along with the soft skills needed for any career path they choose.
“The Universal staff that started the school felt like customer service was something that could benefit all students in any career that they chose,” said Verdesca.
He added that about 70% of students continue to work at Universal after graduation.
For parents or students considering an alternative path to finishing high school, UEC is a hidden gem.
“We truly believe every student deserves a fresh start and a new opportunity to take a different path,” said Verdesca.
After 30 years of serving the community, UEC continues to change lives by offering students a bridge between education and the workforce—a bridge that leads directly into a brighter future.
To enter the program, students must meet the following requirements:
- 16 years of age or older
- Minimum 1.7 GPA
- Commit to working 15 hours a week (3 hours daily Monday-Friday)
- No major discipline referrals
For more information, visit UEC online here:
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: