HOLIDAY READING: Hillsborough Public

LIBRARIES: The Gift that Keeps on Giving

by Jasmin Valentino, photos provided by Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library.

This year, foster your family’s holiday spirit with help from the public library. Because the public library is an inclusive space for all members of the community, we invite you to take this time to celebrate and learn about winter holidays around the world. Why celebrate one holiday when you can celebrate many? Learning about different winter season holidays is a simple way to teach children about cultural and religious diversity. By learning about many cultures, children develop respect for others and an expanded worldview.

THE FOLLOWING BOOKS ARE SOME OF OUR FAVORITES THAT SHOWCASE DIVERSE HOLIDAY TRADITIONS:

SHANTÉ KEYS AND THE NEW YEAR'S PEAS | Shanté visits her grandma for New Year’s. When grandma forgets the black-eyed peas for their meal, Shanté sets out to borrow some from the neighbors and learns their unique family celebrations. For ages 4-8. hcplc.bibliocommons.com/item/show/495473142 OSKAR AND THE EIGHT BLESSINGS | Oskar is a Jewish refugee seeking sanctuary in 1938. He arrives in New York City on the seventh day of Hanukkah and Christmas Eve. As Oskar walks around Manhattan, he discovers holiday sites and meets the residents of his new home. For ages 4-8. hcplc.bibliocommons.com/item/show/1137898142 THE SHORTEST DAY | This book explains Winter Solstice and how it has been celebrated by different cultures throughout history. Simple science activities are included to measure the sun’s location in the sky on the shortest day of the year. For ages 6-9. hcplc.bibliocommons.com/item/ show/321968142 THE NIGHT OF LAS POSADAS | Angie is stuck home with the flu and her brothers are caught in a snowstorm. However, with the help of two strangers, the Spanish custom of Las Posadas is a success. For ages 4-8. hcplc.bibliocommons.com/item/show/1353511142 LETTERS FROM FATHER CHRISTMAS | For over twenty years, the children of J.R.R. Tolkien, author of The Lord of the Rings, received letters from Father Christmas himself detailing stories of adventure and mischief in the North Pole. For ages 8-12. hcplc.bibliocommons.com/item/ show/12015316981 A NEW YEAR'S REUNION | Little Maomao’s father works far from home and is only home one day a year, for Chinese New Year. It’s tough being away from relatives you love, but the family celebrates Chinese New Year by making sticky rice balls, watching the dragon dance in the street and listening to firecrackers. For ages 3-5. hcplc.bibliocommons.com/item/ show/662612142_a_new_years_reunion SHUBH DIWALI | Diwali originated as a festival that marked the last harvest before winter. In this book a family makes preparations to celebrate Diwali, the beautiful Hindu festival of lights. For ages 4-8. hcplc.bibliocommons. com/item/show/1628517142

Introducing your family to new holidays can be as simple as a craft, a meal, listening to music or reading a book. Use the Hoopla app to stream holiday music, browse seasonal eBook cookbook recipes with Libby by Overdrive or check out the HCPLC catalog for DIY gift ideas.

The Hillsborough County public libraries understand that however your family celebrates this time of year, it can be a hectic time for everyone. We are here to help your holidays run as smoothly as possible. Try the library’s Borrow by Mail service where we deliver books, DVDs and more right to your front door for free with your library card. HCPLC.org/Borrow-by-Mail

KEYSTONE PREP HIGH SCHOOL 18105 Gunn Highway, Odessa 33556 813-264-4500; keystoneprep.org

Get ready to experience a school unlike anything you have encountered! Keystone Prep High School is a non-profit private school located in Odessa, just outside Tampa, with small classes and individualized support. Our mission is to not only help students achieve their full potential, but also reach pinnacles of success they never thought possible.

LAND O’ LAKES CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 5105 School Road, Land O’ Lakes 34638 813-995-9040; lolcs.org

A Christ-honoring atmosphere for preschool through high school, LOLCS trains students to develop and grow spiritually, intellectually, socially and physically. We offer a fully accredited, balanced program that emphasizes spiritual life, challenging academics for college preparation and opportunities for students to explore their interests and talents in fine arts and athletics.

LCC DAY SCHOOL 4400 Chancellor St. NE, St. Petersburg 33703 727-522-8331; lccdayschool.com

LCC Day School is a partnership of school, church and families, inspiring superior academic performance while instilling leadership, responsibility and values in a nurturing environment. Our mission is to meet the changing needs of our students as they develop their God-given potential from early childhood through adolescence.

LIFE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY 5209 Tampa Palms Blvd., Tampa 33647 813-443-3122; Lifeia.org

An exceptional multilingual program fostering students' global-mindedness celebrating Humanity, Diversity and Earth. The program is based on Montessori philosophy and naturalism education in a green environment. LIFE instills an ethical standard in students and encourages them to build a higher purpose than self. Life is more than a school; it’s a village.

LINCOLN ELEMENTARY MAGNET (IB)

1207 E. Renfro St., Plant City 33563 813-757-9329; lincoln.mysdhc.org

We prepare students to meet the challenges of world citizenship with confidence, imagination and integrity. Students can study global cultures and develop an open and curious mind. Students engage in music and arts programs, Odyssey of the Mind, Robotics Team, inquiry-based learning centers, student action/service learning, world languages and more.

LOCKHART ELEMENTARY MAGNET (CREATIVE SCIENCE CENTRE)

3719 N. 17th St., Tampa 33610 813-276-5727; lockhart.mysdhc.org

Students learn using the latest technology, such as STEM tools, LEGO robotics and flight simulators. The national Project Lead the Way program engages students in hands-on activities, projects and problems that are reflective of real-world challenges. Students engage with robotics experiences, engineering challenges, outdoor learning and wildlife habitats.

LOMAX ELEMENTARY MAGNET (GIFTED TALENT ACADEMY)

4207 26th St., Tampa 33610 813-276-5569; lomax.mysdhc.org

Students are active thinking and learning citizens, engaging their minds with Math Olympiad, TiViTz, chess, Future Problem Solvers and Odyssey of the Mind. We embrace the arts with World Drumming, violin and Little Kids Rock; build with LEGO and VEX Robotics; and grow through Student Ambassadors and National Honor Society. Enrollment: 60 Class-Size: 8-15 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: $18,500 - $25,000

Enrollment: 430 Class-Size: 10-20 Grades: PreK3-12 Tuition: $6,750-$7,250

Enrollment: 500 Class-Size: 8-17 Grades: PreK2-8 Tuition: $3,240-$12,880

Enrollment: Opening Fall 2021 Class-Size: 1:10 Grades: PreK-grade 8 Tuition: $8,000-$11,000

Enrollment: 501 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 387 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 390 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

MACFARLANE PARK ELEMENTARY MAGNET (IB)

1721 N. MacDill Ave., Tampa 33607 813-356-1760; macfarlanepark.mysdhc.org

As the #1 Elementary Magnet School in America in 2020, we offer students a unique and unbelievable experience. We prepare students to meet the challenges of world citizenship with confidence, imagination and integrity. Students study global cultures, engage in music and arts programs, Odyssey of the Mind, Robotics Team, inquiry-based learning centers, student action/service learning, world languages and more.

MARSHALL MIDDLE MAGNET (IB CANDIDATE)

18 S. Maryland Ave., Plant City 33563 813-757-9360; hillsboroughschools.org/marshall

Marshall IB students are guided by the International Baccalaureate program. The school is an IB Candidate School with authorization on the close horizon. Students can engage in STEM, robotics, culinary arts, Math League and AVID college readiness. Optional Scholar Quest high school credit courses offer additional rigor.

MONTESSORI ACADEMIES Multiple Locations in Temple Terrace and Tampa montessoriacademies.com

A place where children love to learn through hands-on lessons and are allowed to progress at their own pace. Foreign Language lessons in both Chinese and Spanish are included. Come see what makes us unique!

MOTHER TERESA OF CALCUTTA CATHOLIC SCHOOL 17524 Lakeshore Road, Lutz 33558 813-933-4750; mtctampa.org

A private elementary in Lutz serving K-8, our mission is to develop young people who strive for academic excellence, respect the dignity of each individual and foster service to others. We are committed to continuing our tradition of academic excellence by providing a rigorous curriculum in a nurturing Christ-centered environment. Guided by the example of Jesus and our patroness, Mother Teresa, we strive to develop a dedication of service to others and a devotion to the Catholic faith.

MULLER ELEMENTARY MAGNET

(VISUAL, PERFORMING, COMMUNICATION ARTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES)

13615 N. 22nd St., Tampa 33613 813-558-1355; muller.mysdhc.org

The only elementary magnet school to host TWO programs--arts and environmental science--Muller Magnet meets the needs of students of all interests! Daily, students experience strings, dance, music and art classes. They engage in the orchestra and rock band, performance groups and our annual musical. Students can explore the outdoor classroom, global gardens and take part in the National Honor Society and student government.

NORTH TAMPA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 5585 E. County Line Road, Wesley Chapel 33544 813-991-0801; northtampaca.com

North Tampa Christian Academy (NTCA) is an accredited college preparatory private school, serving students in grades K - 12. Located in Wesley Chapel on 44 acres, NTCA provides immersive on-campus education that encourages innovation through project-based learning and an engaging thematic structure. When life demands flexibility for an off-campus option, we also provide the Titan Teacher Network, a "teacher-centric" live online learning experience.

NORTH TAMPA CHRISTIAN EXPLORERS PRESCHOOL 5585 E. County Line Road, Wesley Chapel 33544 813-991-0820; northtampaca.com/preschool

We support young children as they develop skills of exploring, choosing, creating and solving for God’s glory. Children are challenged to stretch themselves and persevere as they make sense of the world around them. Our safe and secure facility is nature-inspired, diverse and family oriented. Enrollment: 370 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 911 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 115-190 Class-Size: average 25 Grades: 12mo to grade 5 Tuition: $8,200-$9,500

Enrollment: 420 Class-Size: 25 Grades: K-8 Tuition: $6,865-$8,235

Enrollment: 439 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 400 Class-Size: varies Grades: K-12 Tuition: $13,745 - $18,230

Enrollment: 135 Class-Size: varies by age Grades: six weeks to PreK Tuition: $115-390 per month

ODESSA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 19521 Michigan Ave., Odessa 33556 813-792-1825; odessachristianschool.org

OCS is a Christ-focused school for motivated learners who want to dive into learning through self-directedness, deep projects and mastery. Using inquiry, collaboration, exploration and discussion with traditional and blended tools as well as field trips and travel, students gain responsibility, perseverance and confidence in learning and public speaking.

ORANGE GROVE MIDDLE MAGNET

(VISUAL, PERFORMING AND COMMUNICATION ARTS)

3415 16th St., Tampa 33605 813-276-5717; hillsboroughschools.org/orangegrove

Be a shining star at Orange Grove, where high academic achievement meets creativity. Our historic campus includes two professional dance studios, video production, visual arts with a MAC lab and exceptional music and technical theater suites. We help our students prepare for their next step if they choose to apply to Blake High School or to hone their skills so they can "wow" their families. Our kids get a well-rounded education.

PAIDEIA CLASSICAL CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 7834 N. 56th St., Tampa 33617 813-988-7700; paideiatampa.com

Paideia Classical Christian School is a community of parents and teachers who share a commitment for educating children to love learning and grow in godliness. We are intentional about developing passionate disciples, exceptional scholars and virtuous citizens. As a nationally accredited, classical school, we employ time-proven curriculum and methods of education which teach students not primarily what to think, but how to think: thoroughly, maturely and biblically.

PALM HARBOR MONTESSORI ACADEMY 2355 Nebraska Ave., Palm Harbor 34683 727-786-1854; palmharbormontessori.com

Palm Harbor Montessori Academy offers the highest quality individualized Montessori experience in the Tampa area. With innovative programs for children from 12 months to 8th grade, our talented and passionate teachers provide an education that nurtures the whole mind, including critical thinking, emotional intelligence and physical wellbeing.

PATEL CONSERVATORY 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa 33602 813-222-1040; patelconservatory.org

At the Patel Conservatory, every student deserves the opportunity to discover their creative potential. Our programs provide training in dance, theater and music. Camps and classes vary by length, age and skill level. Patel Conservatory classes require active learning participation by students and result in a performance.

PEPIN ACADEMIES | pepinacademies.com 3916 E. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa 33610; 813-236-1755 9304 Camden Field Parkway, Riverview 33578; 813-533-2999 7710 Osteen Road, New Port Richey 34653; 727-233-2961

Pepin Academies are non-profit, tuition-free, independent public charter schools serving students with learning and learning-related disabilities. Qualified as Exceptional Student Education (ESE) Center schools, we provide a diversified curriculum driven by the student’s needs in a positive educational environment, as well as a transitional job training program for post-high school students who choose to defer receipt of their diploma.

PINELLAS PREPARATORY ACADEMY 2300 S. Belcher Road, Largo 33771 727-536-3600; pinellasprep.org

Pinellas Preparatory Academy is a high performing, "A" rated, tuition free K-8 public charter school. Besides our strong academics, you will find a culture of strong character and community. The school focuses on developing the talents of each student, while emphasizing high academic standards. Enrollment: 50 Class-Size: 25 max Grades: 1-12 Tuition: $10,000-$11,000

Enrollment: 556 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 86 Class-Size: Varies Grades: K-12 Tuition: $7,930-$8,699

Enrollment: 220

Class-Size: Toddler 10:2; Preprimary 20:2; Primary to middle school, max of 22:2 Grades: 12 mo. - 14 years Tuition: $500-$1,540 per month depending on age and program

Enrollment: 1,000 Class-Size: Varies by program Grades: All ages and skill levels Tuition: Varies by program

Enrollment: 1,200+ students between three campuses Class-Size: 13:2 Grades: 3-12 and a Transition Program for ages 18-22 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 800 Class-Size: K-3 18, 4-8 22 Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE

(VISUAL, PERFORMING AND COMMUNICATION ARTS)

8113 Zinnia Drive, Tampa 33619 813-671-5110; hillsboroughschools.org/progressvillage

We are proud to offer the largest dance and culinary arts programs in Hillsborough County. We're routinely recognized as a Magnet School of America national award winner and show our craft to organizations and events around the district. Students can try exciting electives such as Costume and Fashion Design, orchestra, journalism and more. The spotlight shines on students at Progress Village.

RAMPELLO K-8 MAGNET (CULTURAL ARTS AND HUMANITIES )

802 E. Washington St., Tampa 33602 813-233-2333; rampello.mysdhc.org

Join us for experiential learning with walking field trips through downtown Tampa, and a differentiated instruction focus to meet the needs of all learners. We have strong community partnerships and school-wide AVID instructional strategies. Middle school electives include: Band/Jazz/Orchestra/Steel Drums, Art 2-D and 3-D, Spanish and Creative Writing.

RIVERHILLS ELEMENTARY MAGNET (IB)

405 Riverhills Drive, Temple Terrace 33617 813-987-6911; riverhills.mysdhc.org

Located on the Hillsborough River, with all the science potential and experiment potential that implies, we prepare students to meet the challenges of world citizenship with confidence, imagination and integrity. Students can study global cultures and develop an open and curious mind. Students engage in music and arts programs, Odyssey of the Mind, Robotics Team, Inquiry-based learning centers, student action/service learning, world languages and more.

RIVERVIEW ACADEMY OF MATH & SCIENCE 9906 Symmes Road, Riverview 33578 813-412-6111; riverviewacademy.com

The tuition-free, public charter school proudly serves students from kindergarten through middle school with a well-rounded college preparatory education. The rigorous curriculum includes a special concentration on math and science, a technology-rich atmosphere, and a focus on character development. Offerings include the Cambridge program for Advanced Studies, Edvantage before and after school program, Tampa Bay’s Grasses in Classes Program and Cognia accreditation.

RODGERS MIDDLE MAGNET (CAMBRIDGE CANDIDATE)

11910 Tucker Road, Riverview 33569 813-671-5288; hillsboroughschools.org/rodgers

Rodgers, an authorized Cambridge International Magnet School, offers learning guided by the rigorous, world renowned Cambridge Pathways philosophy. Located in Riverview's Bell Creek Nature Preserve, we embrace and empower the whole student. Several National Board-Certified Teachers highlight our exceptional team of educators. Ask us about our Cambridge Honors Institute if you choose to apply!

ROLAND PARK K-8 MAGNET (IB)

1510 N. Manhattan Ave., Tampa 33607 813-872-5212; rolandpark.mysdhc.org

We inspire young inquiring minds to become compassionate, lifelong learners and internationally-minded people with respect for various cultures and a desire to serve others. Students can experience inquiry-based learning centers, transdisciplinary units of study, an outdoor classroom with an international garden, a strings program and world languages.

SAFETY HARBOR MONTESSORI ACADEMY 2669 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater 34653 727-724-1767; safetyharbormontessori.com

Safety Harbor Montessori Academy is a learning community whose primary goal is to help students reach their full potential in all aspects of their development, in a loving, respectful atmosphere. We have programs for children ages 2 through 14, providing continuity from early childhood to adolescence. Enrollment: 953 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 777 Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 529 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 823 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 766 Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 150 Class-Size: 12-18 Grades: Ages 2-grade 8 Tuition: $9,800-$16,650