Tips From a Middle School Mama: Simple

Tips from a Middle School Mama by Natajassa Prose

I am a new middle school mom. Yes, I teared up as he got out of the car for his first day of this new adventure, but I did try to play it cool. I am still in shock that we arrived at this milestone so quickly, but here we are. Ready or not… middle school years are upon us.

Parenting a middle schooler, a pre-teen or a “tween,” whatever you want to call it, is not for the faint of heart. It can vary from child to child, but attitudes can really take a turn as early as 8 and through the age of 12. During these pre-adolescent years, kids may begin to pull away from you and struggle more than they care to admit. Physical changes, growing pains with friendships and desires for a new independence can play a role in their development during this time. These preteens are a lot like toddlers in this new stage, they’re learning how to articulate their feelings and they’re demanding independence (remember the “threenager” struggles), but they still need you to guide and teach them in this new stage of life.

I am in no way an expert, just a mom sharing some tips that might help you. Along with a little trial and error, life with a preteen can still be amazing.

Here are some simple tips for this uncharted territory:

Write them kind notes. They still need you. They won’t share with their friends that mom left a note, but it will mean a lot to them to see a hidden note in their backpack or on top of their laundry (that will take days to put away).

Remind them they are loved.

Lots of emotions and insecurities are going through their head. A reminder that they’re loved no matter what might calm those nerves.

Offer to talk with them. They might not take you up on it right away, but it'll reinforce that you’re available and willing if and when they have something to get off their chest.

Listen to their stories. Most of the time, we don’t get many details past, “It was good,” but if they start opening up about something that happened at school or they’re telling a story about something funny they heard from a friend, listen. It might be the opportunity you've been waiting for to connect with your kids.

Pick them up with snacks in

the car. They’ll be hangry and surprising them with a simple snack will most definitely give you cool points and eliminate some hangry vibes.

I’m learning as we go, but the preteen struggles are real. If you’re also parenting a middle schooler or preteen, we are in this together! I can’t promise that I won’t tear up when the Facebook memories pop up from those early preschool days, but I am excited to see my amazing kid flourish in this new stage we’re in.

Your Guide to: Tampa BayArea Schools

The Tampa Bay area is lucky to have such a wealth of incredible private, charter and magnet education options that make it easy to find the perfect school for your child.

ACADEMY AT THE LAKES 2331 Collier Parkway, Land O’ Lakes 34639 813-948-7600; academyatthelakes.org/admission

The school’s ethic of opportunity and “You Matter Here” philosophy empower our students to become well-rounded individuals who have the confidence and the knowledge to change the world. With talented, dedicated, and caring teachers leading the way, Academy enjoys a 100% 4-year college placement rate.

ACADEMY OF THE HOLY NAMES 3319 Bayshore Blvd., Tampa 33629 813-839-5371; holynamestpa.org

The Academy of the Holy Names is a Catholic, coeducational elementary school and college preparatory high school for young women, sponsored by the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary. Since 1881, the Academy has empowered students to be authentic individuals who engage in independent thought, are inspired by creativity, and lead culturally aware, spiritually rich lives.

ALEGRIA MONTESSORI SCHOOL 5995 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St. S., St. Petersburg 33705 727-310-8243; alegriamontessori.com

Alegria Montessori School is an authentic Montessori program that creates a rich learning environment and supports individual development. We are also a bilingual program, with students receiving Spanish instruction throughout the week from native Spanish speakers. We offer a true Montessori education through middle school. Come discover the joy of Montessori.

BAYSHORE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 3909 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa 33611 813-839-4297; bayshorechristianschool.org

Bayshore Christian School is a college preparatory, accredited, non-denominational Christian school serving students 2 years old through 12th grade. Founded in 1971, Bayshore Christian School is located on 10 acres in residential South Tampa. BCS provides athletics and fine arts opportunities in addition to a rigorous and challenging academic curriculum.

BELL CREEK ACADEMY 13221 Boyette Road, Riverview 33569 813-793-6075; bellcreekacademy.com

A tuition-free public charter school proudly serving grades 6-12, Bell Creek provides a well-rounded college preparatory education. The challenging and rigorous curriculum includes a special concentration on math and science, a technology-rich atmosphere and a focus on character development. We are an “A” rated Florida School of Excellence offering the Cambridge Program for Advanced Studies and an award-winning athletic program and are Cognia accredited.

BERKELEY PREPARATORY SCHOOL 4811 Kelly Road, Tampa 33615 813-885-1673; berkeleyprep.org

Ranked as one of the BEST private schools in Florida (NICHE), Berkeley Preparatory School presents a safe, nurturing environment featuring inspiring teaching, engaged parents and alumni, and outstanding resources, including incomparable facilities on a beautiful campus. We develop and expect strong character, promote innovation and growth, and desire excellence in all that we do. Simply put, the educational journey at Berkeley is truly extraordinary. Enrollment: 475 Class-Size: 7:1 Grades: PreK3-grade 12 Tuition: $14,000 - $26,500

Enrollment: 975 Class-Size: Varies Grades: PreK-grade 8 (Coed); grades 9-12 (All Girls) Tuition: $13,650 – $21,790

Enrollment: 140 Class-Size: Small class sizes in elementary and middle school Grades: age 1 - grade 8 Tuition: Varies depending on age

Enrollment: 340 Class-Size: 11:1 Grades: age 2 - grade 12 Tuition: $9,300-$11,340

Grades: 6-12 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 1,401 Fall 2022 Class-Size: 20 Grades: PreK-grade 12 Tuition: $19,400-$29,390

BOWERS/WHITLEY BUILDING CONSTRUCTION ACADEMY 13609 N. 22nd St., Tampa 33613 813-558-1750; hillsboroughschools.org/buildingtampastomorrow

COMING 2023-2024 SCHOOL YEAR! The Bowers/Whitley Career Acceleration Academy will be transformed into our new Building Construction Academy for high school students. Students can participate in A/C Refrigeration, Heating Technology (HVAC), Plumbing, and Welding programs. For more details and the latest updates, please visit hillsboroughschools.org/ buildingtampastomorrow.

CALVARY CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL 110 N. McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater 33759 727-449-2247; cchs.us

Calvary offers an advanced college preparatory education in an environment where students are taught a Christian worldview with the Word of God being integrated into each subject. Calvary also offers many extra-curricular activities for your child including athletics, fine arts, SGA, clubs, leadership opportunities and more! Come for a visit today!

CAMBRIDGE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 6101 N. Habana Ave., Tampa 33614 813-872-6744; ccslancers.com

See why we are the #1 rated Christian school in Tampa! Since 1964 we have equipped students with a college preparatory education taught from a biblical worldview. A partnership with CCS provides students with a strong foundation for life and college from a nationally accredited school committed to educating the whole child.

CARROLLWOOD DAY SCHOOL Main Campus - 1515 W. Bearss Ave., Tampa 33613 Preschool Campus - 12606 Casey Road, Tampa 33618 813-920-2288; cdspatriots.org

Carrollwood Day School is a world class co-ed IB school in Tampa celebrating our 40th anniversary this year. Our mission is to create entrepreneurial thinkers for a global society. We provide strong character-based education emphasizing problem-solving skills and philanthropic understanding. CDS fosters the development of the entire student not only in academics, but also ethically, emotionally and through social experience.

CENTER ACADEMY 6710 86th Ave. N., Pinellas Park 33782 727-541-5716; centeracademy.com

Founded in 1968 and Cognia accredited, Center Academy provides a small, safe setting to help students to focus, organize and learn. We work with students in grades 4-12 with ADHD and learning differences and accept FES, Step Up and Tax Credit Scholarships. Dual enrollment and summer programs are available.

CHANNELSIDE ACADEMY OF MATH & SCIENCE 1029 E. Twiggs St., Tampa 33602 813-579-9649; channelsideacademy.com

Students at this tuition-free, public charter school receive a well-rounded college preparatory education. The challenging and rigorous curriculum includes a special concentration on math and science, a technology-rich atmosphere and a focus on character development preparing students for their secondary education and beyond. Offerings include the Cambridge program for Advanced Studies, Edvantage before and after school program, Tampa Bay’s Grasses in Classes Program and Cognia accreditation.

COMMUNITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL Toddler & Primary Campus, 4930 Webb Road, Tampa 33615; 813-886-2050 Elementary & Middle Campus, 8411 Civic Road, Tampa 33615; 813-886-3969 communitymontessori.org

Community Montessori School provides a prepared environment that responds to the developmental needs of the child and cultivates the unique potential of each individual by adhering to Montessori principles. CMS is a warm, secure community with a high expectation for the quality of thought, work and mastery of content and skill. Enrollment: 150 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 790 Class-Size: 12:1 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: $16,150

Enrollment: 767 Class-Size: 17 Grades: 1 year - grade 12 Tuition: $10,610-$18,062

Enrollment: 1,164 Class-Size: 15-18, ratio 6:1 Grades: ages 2 to grade 12 Tuition: $7,100-$25,500

Enrollment: 90 Class-Size: 18 Grades: 4-12 Tuition: $12,680-$15,180

Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 125 Class-Size: Average 20 Grades: 18 months-15 years Tuition: $7,500-$10,950

Victory Charter School Tampa K-12 is proud to announce its Candidacy for the IB PYP and MYP Programmes! As a school, we are committed to providing students with the highest quality educational program possible in a state of the art facility. Our guiding principles include:

•Educate the child holistically to promote academic, social, emotional and ethical growth and development •Encourage student inventiveness and creativity •Nurture student experiential learning •Increase faculty freedom and creativity in instructional methodologies and classroom organization •Promote a foundation for inquisitive, life-long learning

Our mission is to awaken and develop the socially responsible, technologically literate, and self-motivated leader within ALL students via an innovative, internationally focused, and student-centered curriculum that challenges students intellectually, creatively, and personally in a nurturing and safe environment that promotes the development of the total child so that they can be successful in an interconnected global community.

13901 Sheldon Road, Tampa 33625 | 813-551-2144 victorychartertampa.org victorychartertampa612.org

CORBETT PREPARATORY SCHOOL OF IDS 12015 Orange Grove Drive, Tampa 33618 813-961-3087; corbettprep.com

Founded 54 years ago, Corbett Prep offers the International Baccalaureate curriculum for all students. Teachers use research-based strategies to create hands-on learning experiences. Visual and performing arts, team sports, and social-emotional learning curriculum align to develop confident, creative, innovative thinkers with character ready to contribute to the world in a meaningful, positive way. Enrollment: 550 Class-Size: Varies by grade level Grades: PreK-grade 8 Tuition: $13,803-$18,470

CORNERSTONE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 317 Milwaukee Ave., Dunedin 34698 727-733-1438; cornerstonechristianfl.org

At Cornerstone Christian School, our mission is to provide quality education in a Christ-Centered environment for the children of our community. We believe that every child has value and purpose. Our job is to help students discover their potential through academic, physical, social and spiritual development. Enrollment: 80 Class-Size: Small teacher-student ratio Grades: PreK to grade 8 Tuition: K-8 $8,100

COUNTRYSIDE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 1850 N. McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater 33759 727-437-0090; myccacademy.org

Countryside Christian Academy's mission is to provide excellence in Christian education while instilling Biblical principles in students' lives that they might impact their society for Christ. Our program is fully accredited and well-balanced, encouraging the development of the whole child: spirit, soul, (mind) and body. Enrollment: 225 Class-Size: 15 Grades: K5-grade 8 Tuition: $9,500+

D.W. WATERS MEDICAL ACADEMY 2704 N. Highland Ave., Tampa 33602 813-233-2655; hillsboroughschools.org/buildingtampastomorrow

COMING 2023-2024 SCHOOL YEAR! The D.W. Waters Career Acceleration Academy will undergo an exciting transformation over the next year. It is scheduled to become our high school Medical Academy. Some programs slated to be offered include Medical Laboratory Assisting, Electrocardiograph Technician, and Emergency Medical Responder. For more details and the latest updates, please visit hillsboroughschools.org/buildingtampastomorrow.

DOROTHY C. YORK INNOVATION ACADEMY (K-8 MAGNET SCHOOL)

5995 Covington Garden Drive, Apollo Beach 33572 813-533-2400; hillsboroughschools.org/york

York will open as a Project Lead the Way Robotics and Engineering School, where students will participate in hands-on, project-based learning, STEM, arts, and international studies. The Admirals will collaborate in innovative labs with one-to-one technology accessible to explore their interests and prepare them for high school and beyond. Enrollment: 150 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 1,253 Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE

DOWDELL MIDDLE MAGNET (ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES)

1208 Wishing Well Way, Tampa 33619 813-744-8322; hillsboroughschools.org/dowdell

We bridge passion for the environment with real world learning. Students can take unique environmental and animal science electives. Students learn outdoors with our salt marsh grass nursery and land lab and experience our hydroponics and aquaponics labs. Our partnerships with the Florida Aquarium and surrounding recycling companies helps strengthen our mission to educate students to understand the environment around them and how to help it.

DUNBAR ELEMENTARY MAGNET (MEDICAL SCIENCE)

1730 Union St., Tampa 33607 813-276-5677; hillsboroughschools.org/dunbar

At Dunbar’s Medical Magnet Program, young scholars experience STEM fields through hands-on curriculum and an interactive House Program. Students explore the human body systems and healthy habits with partners like St. Joseph's Children's Hospital, USF Health and more. NEW! Third Grade Accelerated Math Academy prepares students for high school Math courses. enrollment: 508 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 278 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

ESSRIG MONTESSORI ACADEMY 13131 Lynn Road, Tampa 33624 813-975-7307; hillsboroughschools.org/essrig

A first of its kind Essrig Montessori Academy will open for Hillsborough County Public Schools students 3 years of age through kindergarten. This self-directed and paced learning approach will foster rigorous, self-motivated growth for children in all areas of their development—nurturing their desire for knowledge, understanding and respect.

FERRELL GIRLS PREPARATORY ACADEMY

(A CAMBRIDGE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL)

4302 24th St., Tampa 33610 813-276-5608; hillsboroughschools.org/ferrell

As a Cambridge International Magnet School and the only girls-only school in the district, we are dedicated to developing confident, dynamic, educated young women. Our technology-rich, interactive learning campus—including our 1:1 technology program—infuses 21st century tech skills into every student’s learning. Mentoring opportunities and community engagement create well-rounded learners.

FRANKLIN BOYS PREPARATORY ACADEMY

(A CAMBRIDGE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL)

3915 21st Ave., Tampa 33605 813-744-8108; hillsboroughschools.org/franklin

As a Cambridge International Magnet School and the only boys-only school in the district, we are molding young men of distinction who will achieve greatness. We promote academic achievement, professionalism and self-confidence. Our young men prepare for college in a technology-rich environment with a robotics makerspace and Smart Boards and iPads available for every student.

FRENCH AMERICAN SCHOOL OF TAMPA BAY 2100 62nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg 33702 727-800-2159; fastb.org

The French American School of Tampa Bay offers a unique culturally diverse experience through Dual Language education from PK to grade 6. We are also an IB World candidate school nurturing curiosity, creativity, and the ability to reflect. Our students are caring and active learners thanks to our exceptional faculty.

GRECO MIDDLE MAGNET (IB CANDIDATE)

6925 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa 33617 813-987-6926; hillsboroughschools.org/greco

Our school-wide IB candidate program, guided by International Baccalaureate World School principles, works with community partners and the city of Temple Terrace to create a unique IB experience every day. Our school has exceptional programs on campus that allow students to explore their passion, all under the IB program umbrella.

HILLSBOROUGH ACADEMY OF MATH & SCIENCE 9659 W. Waters Ave., Tampa 33635 813-793-6085; hillsboroughacademy.com/admissions

A tuition-free public charter school serving Kindergarten to 8th Grade. Challenging and hands-on curriculum includes a special concentration on math and science, a technology-rich atmosphere and a focus on character development. We are “A” rated offering the Cambridge program for Advanced Studies, extracurricular activities, clubs and Edventure, before & after school program.

HILLSBOROUGH VIRTUAL K-12 2704 N. Highland Ave., Tampa 33602 813-983-7278; hillsboroughschools.org/virtual

Hillsborough Virtual K-12 offers personalized learning in a structured, yet flexible environment. It is a school choice option in which students learn in a digital space using a web-based curriculum with highly-qualified teachers from Hillsborough County. Students can take part in athletics and extracurricular activities at their zoned school. Enrollment: 63 Grades: ages 3 years - kindergarten Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 470 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 323 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 75 Class-Size: 12-15 Grades: PreK-6 Tuition: $13,000-$16,000

Enrollment: 810 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 1,101 Grades: K-12 Tuition: FREE

HILLSDALE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 6201 Ehrlich Road, Tampa 33625 813-884-8250; hcatampa.org

Hillsdale Christian Academy is a school that seeks to minister to families across the Tampa Bay area by reaching students intellectually, physically, spiritually and socially. We combine rigorous curriculum with an educated and loving staff to give your student the best educational experience possible to the end of producing successful students for the glory of God.

HOLY TRINITY LUTHERAN SCHOOL 3712 W. El Prado Blvd., Tampa 33629 813-839-0665; htlstampa.org

Holy Trinity Lutheran School is a co-educational school located in the heart of South Tampa. Founded in 1958, HTLS offers an enriching and rewarding academic education in a loving and safe Christian environment. Our mission is to provide Christ-centered academic excellence and care for the whole child that equips them for lifelong learning and service.

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.

LIFT ACADEMY 13400 Park Blvd., Seminole 33776 727-258-7659; liftfl.org

LiFT's mission is to inspire and empower people with neurodiversity to learn, thrive and succeed. LiFT offers low teacher to student ratios, individualized education plans and specific accommodations aligning with each individual student's needs, workforce training and more so students successfully complete high school and increase their capacity for independence.

LINCOLN ELEMENTARY MAGNET (IB)

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

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.

LLT ACADEMY 1090 30th St. NE, Ruskin 33570 813-234-0940; lltacademy.com

LLT Academy & LLT Academy South Bay are independent, not-for-profit, K-8 public charter schools. LLT Academies are established Leader in Me schools and have a whole-child approach to learning with well-rounded foundational academics as well as fine arts, music and PE classes for all grade levels. Enrollment: 178 Class-Size: 11-20 Grades: age 2 - grade 12 Tuition: $180/week - $8,400/year

Enrollment: 200 Class-Size: 16 Grades: PreK-grade 5 Tuition: $6,785

Enrollment: 67 Class-Size: 8-15 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: $19,900 - $25,000

Enrollment: 470 Class-Size: 10-20 Grades: PreK3-12 Tuition: $6,750-$7,250

Enrollment: 120 Class-Size: 10-20 Grades: K-12 Tuition: $11,500-$13,500

Enrollment: 521 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 1,350 total for both schools Class-Size: Small class sizes Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE

LOCKHART ELEMENTARY MAGNET (CREATIVE SCIENCE CENTRE)

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

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. Enrollment: 340 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

LOMAX ELEMENTARY MAGNET (GIFTED TALENT ACADEMY)

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

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: 279 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

MACFARLANE PARK ELEMENTARY MAGNET (IB)

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

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. Enrollment: 372 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

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. Enrollment: 1,084 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

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

Mother Teresa of Calcutta Catholic School is a private elementary school serving K-8th. We provide a rigorous curriculum in a nurturing Christ-centered environment. We foster service to others, instill self-discipline, promote the growth of the whole child, and prepare students for life-long learning. Enrollment: 430 Class-Size: 25 Grades: K-8 Tuition: $7,225-$8,595

MULLER ELEMENTARY MAGNET

(VISUAL, PERFORMING, COMMUNICATION ARTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES)

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

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. Enrollment: 441 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 500 Class-Size: varies Grades: K-12 Tuition: $13,745 - $18,230

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 with an emphasis on mastery and application. Using inquiry, collaboration, exploration and discussion as well as field trips and travel, students gain unparalleled responsibility, experience, 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.

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.

PROGRESS VILLAGE MIDDLE MAGNET

(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; hillsboroughschools.org/rampello

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; hillsboroughschools.org/riverhills

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. Enrollment: 70 max Class-Size: 20-25 max Grades: K-12 Tuition: $10,500 - $12,000

Enrollment: 521 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

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

Enrollment: 824 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 766 Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 507 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

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! Grades: K-9 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 1,155 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

ROLAND PARK K-8 MAGNET (IB)

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

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. Enrollment: 806 Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE

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: 170 Class-Size: 12-24 Grades: Ages 2-grade 8 Tuition: $10,100-$16,950

SEFFNER CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 11605 E. U.S. HWY 92, Seffner 33584 813-626-0001; scacrusaders.com

Seffner Christian Academy is a distinctly Christian learning community for students in preschool - 12th grade. We are committed to developing well-rounded, Gospel-driven students who are prepared for life. Please contact our Admissions department to schedule a time for you to experience the SCA difference! Enrollment: 771 Class-Size: average 22 Grades: PreK2-12 Tuition: $9,500-$12,000

SHORE ELEMENTARY MAGNET

(VISUAL, PERFORMING AND COMMUNICATION ARTS)

1908 2nd Ave., Tampa 33605 813-276-5712; hillsboroughschools.org/shore

We are an award-winning Magnet School of the Arts located in historic Ybor City. Students learn through arts and science integration and can take part in the Annual Arts Festival and school musical. Students expand their horizons through visual art, dance, strings, music, drama, STEAM Engineering and robotics programs. Our partnership with the Straz Performing Arts Center brings Broadway to our students--something you will find at no other school!

SHORECREST PREPARATORY SCHOOL 5101 1st St. NE., St. Petersburg 33703 727-522-2111; shorecrest.org

Founded in 1923, Shorecrest is a coed, nonsectarian, PK3-12 independent school in St. Petersburg, FL. In a safe, student-centered environment, Shorecrest educates a diverse community of students to become lifelong learners in the pursuit of personal and academic excellence, physical well-being, creative achievement and the development of a commitment to social responsibility. Enrollment: 373 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 1,056 Class-Size: 16 Grades: PreK3-12 Tuition: $13,430-$29,600