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Middle School | 7 - 8

In Middle School, students at Orangewood experience a supportive and engaging learning environment that bridges the gap between lower school and high school.

Crew

Building Christ-centered community through small groups of students

I feel seen and appreciated

"I believe that Orangewood is really good about making me feel loved! The Principal will pass me in the hallway and just ask me how my day is going! This just makes me feel known. In science we pray before our test, which helps me and the teachers tell us how much they love us. I really feel seen and appreciated at this school." — Student. Class of 2031

 

Curriculum rooted in discovery

We offer a variety of exploratory courses and enrichment activities that allow students to discover their interests and talents, preparing them for the next stage of their educational journey

 

Curriculum rooted in Christ

Our educators integrate Christian worldview into every subject, helping students to develop a solid biblical foundation and a Christ-First perspective

 

Curriculum rooted in Innovation

Orangewood is proud to offer its students a unique STEM based experience with our innovation lab

Curriculum Overview

Our Middle School curriculum is designed to challenge and inspire, with a focus on developing essential skills such as collaboration, problem-solving, leadership, and effective communication.

Curriculum Overview

Such a loving school

"When our son said grace before our family dinner, I was delighted to hear him thank the Lord for providing him with such a loving school." — Ram Parent.

Safety

An environment where students feel secure and supported, enabling them to thrive and focus on their education

Purpose

Helping students find direction and sense of fulfillment through high academic standards, faith, and values, guiding them to their goals

Character

Development of moral and ethical values, emphasizing integrity, respect, and compassion

Meet the Middle School Admin Team

Dr. Angel Eggert

Upper School Principal

Upper School Principal
angeleggert@ocsrams.org

Apple Teacher Certified

JOINED ORANGEWOOD
2019

EDUCATION
PhD Education Curriculum and Instruction, University of Florida

FUN FACT
She loves reading novels and tending to her plants

FAVORITE OCS TRADITION
Senior Retreat, Spiritual Emphasis Week with Serve Day, Be the Light Parade, and Passing the Light at Graduation

FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
Psalm 46:10

FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Starbucks Unsweet Iced Green Tea

As Principal of Orangewood Christian's Upper School, Dr. Eggert brings over two decades of dedicated service in education, driven by a profound commitment to Christian values and academic excellence. Her journey began in 2001 as a classroom teacher, and has spanned both public and private educational settings across all three divisions: lower, middle, and high school. These experiences have provided her with a comprehensive understanding of educational dynamics and a deep appreciation for the transformative power of Christian education.

In addition to her professional experience, her academic journey has equipped her with a solid foundation. She holds degrees in Bachelor of Science in Biology from Rollins College, a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Florida, and a Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Florida. These academic pursuits have not only enriched her understanding of educational theory and practice but have also reinforced her dedication to fostering holistic growth among students through a Christ-centered educational approach.

In 2019, God called her into leadership at Orangewood, where she has been privileged to be a part of a community that fosters a nurturing environment where faith and learning intersect harmoniously. At Orangewood, education is more than imparting knowledge—it's about cultivating hearts and minds grounded in Biblical truth. Witnessing students grow in their faith and discipleship throughout their time here is a profound joy and privilege that fuels her passion for Christian education.

Her personal and professional life are deeply intertwined with Orangewood; for her family, it truly feels like home. Her husband, Matt, and our children, Ava (class of 2027) and Dax (class of 2037), are also a part of the Orangewood family. As a family, they enjoy the beach, great sushi, and spending time together. Some of her personal interests are reading novels and plants. She feels like you can't have too many of either.

Orangewood Christian School holds a special place in her heart. It is a place where students not only receive an outstanding education but also experience the transformative power of Christ's love in their daily lives. As Principal, she is dedicated to upholding our school’s mission, fostering an environment where students flourish academically, spiritually, and socially. Together with our incredible team, she is excited to continue guiding and empowering our students to become compassionate leaders and lifelong learners who impact the world for Christ.

Diane Tancredi

Upper School Assistant Principal

Upper School Assistant Principal
dtancredi@ocsrams.org
Apple Teacher Certified

JOINED ORANGEWOOD
2023

EDUCATION
MA Educational Leadership, Benedictine University

FUN FACT
Her family and especially her grandkids fill her life with joy and energy. Her dog, Charlie, is her constant companion.

FAVORITE OCS TRADITION
Passing of the Light at Graduation

FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
Psalm 46:10

FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Coke Zero

Mrs. Diane Tancredi and her husband moved to Florida after retiring to be close to their daughter's family and grandchildren. She taught for 34 years in the suburbs of Chicago, serving both middle and high school students. During that time, she earned a master's in curriculum and instruction as well as a master’s in educational leadership. She served as the English Department Chair at Metea Valley High School for the last 12 years of her teaching career. She has been blessed to serve first as the 6th-grade English teacher and now as the Assistant Principal at the Upper Campus. Orangewood has become home for her family, and her husband drives the buses whenever needed.

Elizabeth Lynn

Upper School Dean of Students / Head Cross Country Coach / Track & Field Coach

Upper School Dean of Students / Head Cross Country Coach / Track & Field Coach
elynn@ocsrams.org

EDUCATION
BA Religious Studies, Florida State University

FUN FACT
She enjoys competing in running events, including marathons.

Mrs. Elizabeth (Coach) Lynn was born and raised in Orlando, and after high school she attended Syracuse University, Southern Methodist University and graduated from Florida State University with a degree in Religious Studies, and holds many certifications, including her USATF Level 1, USATF Cross Country, NFHS Coach Level 1 and Altis in Javelin, Hammer and Shot Put. Coach Lynn and her husband Sean have two children, Patrick and Mackenzie, and two labs, Beauty and Charley.

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Ian McVay

Upper School Dean of Students / Varsity Boys Basketball Head Coach

Upper School Dean of Students / Varsity Boys Basketball Head Coach
imcvay@ocsrams.org
Apple Teacher Certified

JOINED ORANGEWOOD
2022

EDUCATION
BS Communications, Montreat College

FUN FACT
He has enjoyed coaching basketball and has played basketball for most of his life. He has a lot of passion and enthusiasm for the game. He also enjoys weightlifting, running, cooking, and family time with his wife, Hannah, and their two children, Isley and Ledger.

FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
James 1:2-4

FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Blonde Roast Coffee from Starbucks, or Sweet Tea

Mr. Ian McVay was born in Pittsburgh, PA, and grew up in Black Mountain, NC where he played basketball at C.D. Owen High School. He continued his basketball journey at Milligan University and the University of Alabama before finishing his college career and graduating from Montreat College in 2013. Following coaching stints in Texas and North Carolina, McVay served in the U.S. Navy from 2018 to 2022. In 2022, he joined the team at Orangewood Christian School as a Physical Education teacher and basketball coach, eventually becoming Dean of Students. His passion lies in integrating his faith with basketball, cherishing the opportunity to mentor and lead. 

Jessica Underwood

Upper School Counselor

Upper School Counselor
junderwood@ocsrams.org
Apple Teacher Certified

JOINED ORANGEWOOD
2020

EDUCATION
MS Counseling Education, with specialization in School Counseling, Palm Beach Atlantic University

FUN FACT
She finds joy in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. She prioritizes both physical and mental health through being disciplined and consistent in her routines, which enables her to show up fully for her family and students each day.

FAVORITE OCS TRADITION
Senior ski trip

FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
Galatians 5:22-23

FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Matcha Latte, hot or iced

Mrs. Jessica Underwood is originally from Brazil but was raised in Orlando, Florida. She pursued a degree in Psychology at the University of Central Florida and earned a master's degree in Counseling Education with a focus on School Counseling from Palm Beach Atlantic University. She is blessed with a loving spouse and two energetic boys. They enjoy bonding over sports, beach outings, and family travel. Christ is central in her life, shaping how she approaches relationships and challenges. She is passionate about empowering students to navigate the complexities of adolescence with resilience, integrity, and grace. Her aim is to empower students to become compassionate and resilient individuals who embody the values of faith in their interactions with themselves and others.

Barb More

Academic and College Advisor

Academic and College Advisor
bmore@ocsrams.org
Apple Teacher Certified

JOINED ORANGEWOOD
2008

EDUCATION
BS Mathematics Education, University of Central Florida

FUN FACT
She loves serving families as they navigate the college application process.

FAVORITE OCS TRADITION
Be The Light Parade

FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
Colossians 3:23

FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Sugar Free Vanilla Latte (hot or iced) 

Mrs. Barb More has served in both public and private Christian education for over 28 years. Throughout her career, she has taught students in grades 6-12, covering subjects from Pre-Algebra through Calculus. She has served as a Dean of Students and most recently as the OCS Upper School Academic and College Advisor. She has been married to her husband since 1987. They have two daughters and three grandchildren. They are active members of their church.

Sheila Hughes

Upper School Administrative Assistant

Upper School Administrative Assistant
shughes@ocsrams.org
Apple Teacher Certified

JOINED ORANGEWOOD
2015

EDUCATION
AA, Valencia College

FUN FACT
I'm a passionate NFL enthusiast, and Chick-Fil-A is my favorite fast food!

FAVORITE OCS TRADITION
Passing the Light at Graduation

FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
Matthew 23:11-12

FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Starbucks Caramel Frappucino

Mrs. Sheila Hughes' greatest joy is her family! She has a loving husband, two amazing children, a wonderful daughter-in-law, and a precious granddaughter born in 2021. She feels abundantly blessed by God as a wife, mother, and Meemaw.

 

 

 

Explore more about what being a RAM has to offer

 

 

Student Experience

Talk a closer look at the day to day life of a Ram.

Athletics

Our athletic program is rooted in Christian values, commitment, discipline, and leadership.

Fine Arts

Every student has been created by God with unique and wonderful gifts and talents.  At Orangewood, our fine arts programs strive to help each student discover and develop these talents and teach students how there gifts are an act of worship to God.

Upper School Faculty

When students arrive on campus each day, they're welcomed by some of the leading minds in independent education.