You didn’t read the title wrong…Central Florida has lots to make them proud at this year’s Oscars!  And here’s one of the reasons…Mandy Moore!

Central Florida native Mandy Moore will be teaming with Zachary Levi to perform her Oscar-nominated song “I See the Light.”

Mandy, who got her start on singing and performing at Central Florida’s Park Maitland School, recently starred in Disney’s newest hit Tangled, a twist on Rapunzel’s classic tale, where “I See the Light” is featured.

Although living in California with husband, singer songwriter Ryan Adams, Mandy’s heart still has ties to Central Florida. A frequent source of inspiration for up-and-coming performers who dream of making it big, Mandy stays in touch with Park Maitland School, sending words of encouragement, signed movie posters, and even visiting the school when in town. (Yeah, we think that’s pretty down-to-earth!)

And although Mandy found success early in Hollywood, she is one starlet of which all of Central Florida can be proud…no scandals follow her around. No drugs, no panty-less photos, no shoplifting… it appears the very values Park Maitland teach made a lasting impression!

As Park Maitland’s Mary Margaret Bowen explains, “Park Maitland School feels so proud of Mandy, not only because of her success as a singer and an actress, but, even more importantly, her grace, sweetness, and genuine goodness.  Mandy is a wonderful example for our students.  They get to see and admire a beautiful ‘Hollywood star’ who has been able to stay true to herself and retain her character in an often challenging environment.  The children see her as a ‘princess,’ and we are very proud to be able to tell them she is a member of our school ‘family.’”

So, break a leg, Mandy!  We’ll be watching tomorrow night! (And so will our kids!)