In what is being labeled a historic moment for the Orange County Public Schools (OCPS), Anne Douglas being elected to the School Board marks a significant milestone in the district’s history as it is the first time two Black individuals are serving on the OCPS School Board simultaneously. With her election, Anne Douglas joined Vicki Felder on the Orange County School Board.
According to supporters, Anne Douglas brings 25 years of teaching experience within the OCPS district and she is fluent in 3 languages. She is a dedicated educator and advocate for high quality education. Her decades of service in the classroom have equipped her with firsthand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities within the school system, making her a powerful voice for students, teachers, and families alike.
“With multiple decades of teaching in this district, I have seen the incredible potential of our students and educators, as well as the areas where we can do more to support them. I am committed to bringing those insights to the board to create meaningful change,” said Douglas.
“As a former OCPS student, I am deeply honored to bring a teacher with over 25 years of experience to help improve quality education for OCPS students,” stated Jeremy Rodriguez, Founder and Campaign Manager for Anne Douglas. “Standing alongside Anne Douglas to make history is a powerful reminder of what is possible when we put qualified teachers on the school board.”
Supporters also said that Douglas’ historic election reflects the community’s confidence in her ability to lead and her dedication to improving public education for all and that this moment represents a turning point for OCPS, emphasizing its commitment to the importance of experienced educators shaping the future of the district.
There are eight members that make up the Orange County School Board. Seven are elected from the single district which they represent, where each must reside in that district; and one is elected county-wide and serves as the Chair of the School Board.
School Board members have authority only when the School Board meets in an official session and a quorum is physically present. The School Board is responsible for setting policy and meeting requirements set by the Florida Legislature and State Board of Education Rules. All School Board meetings are conducted in accordance with Roberts Rules of Order, Revised. The Superintendent is appointed by the School Board and has administrative authority for the direction and operation of the school system under policies adopted by the School Board.
