Positive Thinking: How Academy at the

Teachers Work on the “Hope” Team Every Day

by Mark Heller, Head of School at Academy at the Lakes

Thomas Jefferson felt that the purpose of education was to prepare children for citizenship in our democracy. Educational philosopher Francis Parker, one of the founders of the progressive education movement, believed that “The work of the school is determined by the needs of society.” In many ways, I believe, those two points are coalescing in this time and place.

What DOES society need today?

My answer:

KINDNESS

• As a counterweight to the meanness of our 21st century American culture • As a salve for the callousness and vindictiveness of much of our public discourse, even from some we have placed in positions of trust in our government • As a respite from the challenges and vicissitudes of life • Simply because it’s right and good

INFORMATION LITERACY

• The ability to discriminate between good sources and suspect ones • The ability to think critically about the information we encounter and then act on it • As a skill that is necessary and fundamental for citizenship

PROBLEM-SOLVING MIND-SETS

The world needs people • Who can analyze situations • Who can form the right questions • Who can communicate and recombine pre-existing elements in ways that answer our needs (That ability to re-combine is a useful definition of creativity.) At school, so much of what we do involves problem-solving and often group problem-solving. Comfort with the processes of solving problems will help our children navigate through their public, business and personal lives for the rest of their lives.

OPTIMISM

• The world was not built by Eeyores—by people who don’t see the point of doing much of anything • Greatness is tied to optimism • It’s a force-multiplier • It helps us to dream and to achieve

THE 6 C’S

These answers to society’s needs (Kindness, Information Literacy, Problem-Solving Mind-Sets and Optimism) clearly resonate to “6 Cs” we use as the basis of our curricular choices at the school I’m privileged to lead: • Critical thinking • Collaboration • Communication • Creativity • Citizenship • Character When educators focus on building all of these skill-sets in our children, we are answering the needs of society. In doing so, we truly touch the future in the most positive ways. In my opening messages to my faculty over the past few years I have visited and re-visited the great historic battle between fear and hope. When the forces of fear are ascendant, we get racism, sexism, homophobia, xenophobia, disinformation, fascism, authoritarianism and “replacement” theory. When the forces of hope prevail, we get social progress, innovation, connection, the flowering of the human spirit, and a deeper, more satisfying strength. Educators work on the Hope Team each and every day. We are a force for good. We matter here and now, for our students, for their families, for the future. We matter everywhere, for our work has unlimited power to repair the world.

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.

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.

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. Enrollment: 63 Grades: ages 3 years - kindergarten Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 470 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 323 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 810 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE

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

Enrollment: 178 Class-Size: 11-20 Grades: age 2 - grade 12 Tuition: $180/week - $8,400/year

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

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

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

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. Enrollment: 521 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

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.

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.

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

Enrollment: 340 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

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.

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

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

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

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. Enrollment: 521 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE