WHERE MINDSET MATTERS

WHERE MINDSETS MATTER

by Laura Cross, photos provided by Hillsborough County Public Schools

Walking through the courtyard at Heritage Elementary School in New Tampa, a wall immediately catches your eye. It’s not just any wall. It’s a work of art.

On this wall is a mural, conceived by the school’s art teacher, painted by the school’s art students, but conceptualized off 7 Mindsets.

Adopted by Hillsborough County Public Schools this year as part of social and emotional learning, the 7 Mindsets is designed to promote self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible decision-making.

Heritage Elementary is one of ten 7 Mindset pilot schools around the district. Andrea Simpson, school counselor at Heritage, says that embracing the 7 Mindsets is already having profound impacts on the school.

“Because of the pandemic, we have kids that haven’t left the house in a while, and being back on campus is a whole new thing for them,” Simpson says. “So we are embracing their feelings and letting them know it’s about beliefs and your mindset. Yeah, we hit rough patches, but we can get through that together.”

So, where does the wall come into play?

Introducing Stephanie Scheno: art teacher extraordinaire!

New to Heritage Elementary, Scheno was excited about the 7 Mindsets program. When the school’s principal challenged her to create murals based on the Mindsets, it was a challenge Scheno was more than happy to accept.

The only question was where to start.

“My morning duty is across the courtyard, and I face the garden every morning. The garden club is in the mornings and the kids, even some of the most macho boys, were really getting into it! They were working together so nicely, and so passionately, and there was a very nice sense of community. So, I thought, what a great place for the first mural… right next to the garden!”

Scheno put out feelers and students were enthusiastic about taking on this project. Once a week, the Mural Club stays after school for an hour to paint and create.

The theme of the first 7 Mindsets mural is “Live to Give,” a nod to the school’s young gardeners who Scheno sees giving back to the school by making the garden grow.

“I feel like in this day and age especially, with the virus and how isolated they’ve been, there hasn’t been a lot of opportunity for them to do something to bring others joy,” explained Scheno. “Now these kids get to paint this mural and they hear the little kids come in and scream, “There’s more to the mural!” And they gain firsthand experience of what it’s like to bring joy to others through hard work.”

The 7 Mindsets are: Live to Give, Passion First, We are Connected, 100% Accountable, Attitude of Gratitude, The Time is Now, and Everything is Possible.

Simpson is proud of how the students and staff are implementing the Mindsets into every corner of the school and finding their passions.

“Passion first. Some of the kids don’t necessarily excel academically and you’re giving them a confidence somewhere else. That’s what it’s all about. Not everyone is going to get straight As. They got to find what their passion is. It’s about building confidence and dreaming big!”

The 7 Mindsets pilot schools in the district are: Apollo Beach Elementary, Collins Elementary, Heritage Elementary, Morgan Woods Elementary, Sheehy Elementary, Eisenhower Middle, Jennings Middle, Mann Middle, Leto High and Wharton High.

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.

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! 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

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

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.

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. 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

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

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.

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; 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.

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

Enrollment: 953 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 777 Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 529 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!

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.

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!

SHORE ELEMENTARY MAGNET

(VISUAL, PERFORMING AND COMMUNICATION ARTS)

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

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. 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

Enrollment: 754 Class-Size: 20 Grades: K2-12 Tuition: $9,500 - $11,200

Enrollment: 441 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 995 Class-Size: 16-18 Grades: PK3-12 Tuition: $12,670 - $28,460

SIMMONS CAREER ACCELERATION ACADEMY HIGH SCHOOL 1202 W. Grant St., Plant City 33563 813-707-7430; hillsboroughschools.org/simmons

Simmons Career Acceleration Academy High School in Plant City serves students 9-12, providing a school culture focused on academic achievement, personal growth, and preparing students for a successful future after high school. Students experience a hybrid learning approach, career preparation through industry certifications, and a streamlined path to graduation. Students can take part in athletics and extracurricular activities at their zoned school.

SKYCREST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 129 N. Belcher Road, Clearwater 33765 727-797-1186; skycrestchristianschool.org

The value of a Skycrest education is immeasurable. School graduates enter their high school years with outstanding academic preparation, leadership skills and confidence in their ability to succeed. With newly integrated technology, an extensive list of extracurricular activities and a small student/teacher ratio, a Skycrest education is available at amazingly competitive rates.

SLIGH MIDDLE MAGNET

(HUMAN HEALTH AND PERFORMANCE, MEDICAL ADMINISTRATION AND SCIENCES)

2011 E. Sligh Ave., Tampa 33610 813-276-5596; hillsboroughschools.org/sligh

Join a culture of future health professionals whose uniforms are doctors' scrubs four days a week. We are preparing students for one of the fastest growing career fields in the country. Electives engage all students with Career and Technical Education, Family and Consumer Science and our AVID college readiness program.

SOUTH COUNTY CAREER ACCELERATION ACADEMY HIGH SCHOOL 2810 John Sherman Way, Ruskin 33570 813-233-3335; hillsboroughschools.org/sccc

South County Career Center offers an accelerated program to any high school student to either earn previously lost credits or to accelerate in current courses using Edgenuity. We currently offer Automotive program as well as Agriculture as electives.

SOUTH TAMPA ACADEMY AT MONROE MIDDLE MAGNET

(IB CANDIDATE)

4716 Montgomery Ave., Tampa 33616 813-272-3020; hillsboroughschools.org/monroe

We develop active learners and internationally-minded students. Students will be guided by the International Baccalaureate World School Philosophy. Students can pursue unique electives like computer modeling and simulation. Our sixth grade structure creates a supportive middle school transition. We are the only middle magnet school in South Tampa and prepare our students to potentially step into the halls of Robinson IB!

ST. CECELIA INTERPAROCHIAL CATHOLIC SCHOOL 1350 Court St., Clearwater 33756 727-461-1207; st-cecelia.org

St. Cecelia (SCS) is a two-time recipient of the prestigious Blue Ribbon Award, both in 2020 and 2010. SCS is also Pinellas county’s only private school to offer the International Baccalaureate to students in grades PreK-3 to grade 8. Through the IB Programme we provide tools, develop character and teach skills that prepare our students to thrive in high school, college and beyond. We remain steadfast in our commitment to our students’ educational and personal success and to the betterment of our local and global communities.

ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL 1002 S. Rome Ave., 906 S. Orleans Ave., 240 S. Plant Ave., Tampa 33606 813-849-4200; stjohnseagles.org

Located in the heart of Tampa, St. John's Episcopal School delivers an unparalleled, values-driven, progressive education for children in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. Hard work, faith, respect, honesty and a commitment to excellence allow our graduates to thrive in high school, college and beyond. Enrollment: 250 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 500 Class-Size: 22 Grades: K4-grade 8 Tuition: $11,000+ fees

Enrollment: 579 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 200 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 432 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 425 Class-size: 12-24 students depending on grade level Grades: PreK3-grade 8 Tuition: $7,120-$7,918

Enrollment: 525 Class-Size: 17 Grades: K4-8 Tuition: $14,660 - $15,190

ST. LAWRENCE CATHOLIC SCHOOL 5223 N. Himes Ave., Tampa 33614 813-879-5090; stlawrencecatholicschool.org

Celebrating 60 years of Catholic Education since 1961, St. Lawrence Catholic School provides a Christ-centered environment inspiring students from Early Childhood through grade 8 toward academic excellence to become life-long learners. 21st Century classrooms promote creativity, critical thinking and collaboration. Fully accredited by the FCC, with a strong curriculum exceeding Diocesan, state and national standards in academics, art, music, physical education, Spanish, technology, STREAM and media.

ST. MARY’S EPISCOPAL DAY SCHOOL 2101 S. Hubert Ave., Tampa 33629 813-258-5508; smeds.org

St. Mary’s Episcopal Day School provides challenging academics, performing and visual arts, competitive athletics, technology, public speaking, world languages, global studies, community service, religious education and more. St. Mary’s highly-qualified pre-K through 8th grade faculty inspires students to achieve their best, developing into well-rounded individuals ready for the challenges ahead.

ST. PETERSBURG COLLEGIATE HIGH SCHOOLS St. Petersburg: 6605 5th Ave. N., St. Petersburg 33710 | 727-341-4610 Tarpon Springs: 600 Klosterman Road, Tarpon Springs 34689 | 727-712-5891 spchs.spcollege.edu

St. Petersburg Collegiate High Schools offer a supportive educational experience with all the benefits of high school and college. Students thrive at SPCHS as successful learners and leaders. SPCHS students graduate with their high school diploma, an Associate’s degree, and the skills for continued success. Best of all, it’s free!

ST. RAPHAEL CATHOLIC SCHOOL 1376 Snell Isle Blvd. NE, St. Petersburg 33704 727-821-9663; straphaelschool.net

St. Raphael Catholic School welcomes families who believe that Christ is the cornerstone of our lives, strive for academic excellence, seek to provide faith-filled service to others, reflect Catholic values and are responsible leaders of the Church and community.

STEWART MIDDLE MAGNET (NASA EXPLORER SCHOOL)

1125 Spruce St., Tampa 33607 813-276-5691; hillsboroughschools.org/stewart

Be part of one of the only nationally recognized NASA Explorer Schools in the country! Through our Project Lead the Way curriculum, students choose from electives like aerospace and engineering. Stewart partners with NASA, NOAA and the U.S. Air Force for real-world learning. Our location on the Hillsborough River and next to Blake and near Dunbar Magnet add to the opportunities our students enjoy every day!

TAMPA CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL 4630 N. Rome Ave., Tampa 33603 813-870-0860; tampacatholic.org

Tampa Catholic High School is a co-educational school of the Diocese of St. Petersburg dedicated to providing students with “Veritas et Caritas” (truth and charity) through educational excellence in a Christ centered environment. Its curriculum reinforces critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, problem solving and depth of understanding necessary for 21st-century learners.

TAMPA DAY SCHOOL 12606 Henderson Road, Tampa 33625 813-269-2100; tampadayschool.com

Celebrating 50 years of meeting the needs of bright students with Dyslexia, ADHD or anxiety, TDS offers a uniquely designed college-prep curriculum. With small class sizes, instruction incorporates interactive and handson experiences, along with an emphasis on study and organizational skills, promoting success and improved confidence. Contact us to learn more! Enrollment: 495 Class-Size: < 25 Grades: PreK3-grade 8 Tuition: $8,250 - $11,445

Enrollment: 450 Class-Size: 20 Grades: PreK-grade 8 Tuition: $16,600

Enrollment: 240 per location Class-Size: grade 10 average of 18, grades 1112 varies by course Grades: 10-12 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 170 Class-Size: 17 average Grades: PK-8 Tuition: $6,100-$8,100

Enrollment: 1,024 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 725 Class-size: 24 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: $12,000 - $15,000

Enrollment: 150 class-Size: 10-12 Grades: 3-8 Tuition: $21,600 + $1,750 fees

(GLOBAL LEADERSHIP ACADEMY)

3719 N. 17th St., Tampa 33610 (temporary) 813-276-5405; tampaheights.mysdhc.org

Our students become innovative thinkers who achieve academically and socially through our seven Wonders—leadership, environment, economics, wellness, innovation, communication and culture. Students can participate in Model United Nations and Odyssey of the Mind, learn world languages and leadership, and experience cultural clusters such as yoga, cooking, African art and LEGO makerspace.

TAMPA PREP 727 W. Cass St., Tampa 33606 813-251-8481; tampaprep.org

There’s a culture of creativity here, a willingness to try new ideas – anything that better serves students. We are Florida’s Most Innovative School, where students graduate uniquely prepared to succeed in a world of accelerating change. Located in the heart of downtown Tampa, we’re here to inspire the next great creators. Enrollment: 308 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 700 Class-size: 15 Grades: 6-12 Tuition: $24,788 - $25,683

VALRICO LAKE ADVANTAGE ACADEMY 13306 Boyette Road, Riverview 33569 813-699-5049; valricoacademy.com

A tuition-free, public charter school proudly serving students in kindergarten through fifth Grade, the school provides a well-rounded elementary foundation through a challenging curriculum with a focus on teaching math and science in proven and innovative instructional methods preparing students for their secondary education and beyond. We are an “A” rated Florida School of Excellence offering the Cambridge program for Advanced Studies. Cognia accredited.

VANGUARD SCHOOL 22000 US Highway 27, Lake Wales 33859 863-676-6091; vanguardschool.org

The Vanguard School is a co-educational boarding and day school for students in grades 6-12. Vanguard specializes in educating students who experience academic learning challenges in an environment that works with academic strategies, executive functioning, social skills, celebrates student strengths and assists in transitioning into higher educational opportunities and independent living. Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 100 boarding, up to 120 total Class-size: 6-10 Grades: 6-12 Tuition: 7-day $49,000; 5-day $43,000; Day $25,500

VILLA MADONNA SCHOOL 315 W. Columbus Dr., Tampa 33602 813-229-1322; villamadonnaschool.com

Villa Madonna is a private Catholic school operated by the Salesian order of Sisters, founded by Saint John Bosco. Villa Madonna School has been a Tampa tradition for more than 75 years. Villa Madonna's standardized test scores continually exceed the national average in reading, science, and math. Enrollment: 325 Class-Size: 18 Grades: Ages 3 through grade 8 Tuition: $6,500

WALKER MIDDLE MAGNET (IB)

8282 N. Mobley Road, Odessa 33556 813-631-4726; hillsboroughschools.org/walker

We develop creative and confident learners. Communication, reflection and whole-child learning energize Walker Middle Magnet, Odessa's IB World School. As a Magnet School of Distinction, students are exposed to a rigorous curriculum. High-impact teachers and our Florida Power School Library highlight our exceptional, highly-rated team of educators. Enrollment: 984 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

WESTLAKE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 1551 Belcher Road, Palm Harbor 34683 727-781-3808; westlakechristianschool.org

Westlake Christian School, a National Blue Ribbon School, is accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools/Cognia. Westlake’s mission is to help students develop in their faith, academics, fine arts and athletics. Westlake serves approximately 425 students in Kindergarten through eighth grade from Northern Pinellas County, Southern Pasco County, Trinity, Westchase and surrounding communities. Enrollment: 475 Class-size: 1:18 Grades: K-8 Tuition: $8,950-$9,275

WILLIAMS MIDDLE MAGNET (IB)

5020 N. 47th St., Tampa 33610 813-744-8600; hillsboroughschools.org/williams

We are a top-ranked IB World School, earning an A-grade for nearly 20 years! We create global learners focused on intercultural awareness and communication. Scholar Quest high school credit offerings challenge students in French, algebra and emerging technology in business. Connect through clubs including LEGO Robotics, Model UN, Future Business Leaders of America and our award-winning Chess Club. Enrollment: 841 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

YOUNG MIDDLE MAGNET (CREATIVE SCIENCE CENTRE)

1807 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd., Tampa 33610 813-276-5739; hillsboroughschools.org/young

We empower creative learners with our Project Lead the Way STEM curriculum. We focus on engineering, sustainability and "Global Planting"— engaging students in hands-on learning with an on-campus hydroponic farm and greenhouse, along with student-constructed rain gardens. Students learn using state-of-the-art technology, including touch-enabled whiteboards and 3-D printers. Enrollment: 654 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

VIEW OUR FULL EDUCATION DIRECTORY ONLINE AT TAMPABAYPARENTING.COM

This holiday season, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Tampa Bay needs your help to continue our mission of keeping families together when it matters most.

Your donation means more to these families than ever before. When you give $100, you sponsor a night’s stay for a family, giving them food, a place to rest and each other.

Visit rmhctampabay.org/donate to make your donation today.