Highlands Elementary School

Highlands Elementary School has a unique un-official mascot. It’s Big Al the American Bald Eagle. The nest used to be in the big oak tree that was in the front loop but age and Florida weather was no match for the tree and it ultimately was taken down. That didn’t stop Big Al and his family! They relocated to another tree not too far away and can be seen swooping in and out of the nest all year long. Big Al is rumored to have blown into school the year Hurricane Charlie wreaked havoc on Central Florida, where he decided it was such a nice spot that he would return each year afterwards to raise a family.

In July 2025, we will be planting new roots in the same spot as Big Al’s original tree with a new tree we hope will grow and thrive as our students grow and thrive. Our hope is that one day, Big Al brings his family right back to the center of our school! Stay tuned for more on the Eagle Initiative.

Audubon Florida Nest View