November 2023 by Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

NOVEMBER 2023

FOR LOCAL FAMILIES. BY LOCAL FAMILIES.

The BEST

HOLIDAY EVENTS

in Tampa Bay

UNLOCK THE POWER OF CONVERSATION

GIVE THE GIFT OF

HOPE

with your kids

HALLOWEEN FUN:

with Awesome Things to Do, Metropolitan Cute DIY Crafts and MORE! Ministries

ENTREPRENEURSHIP:

Living the American dream

YOUR GUIDE TO TAMPA BAY AREA SCHOOLS

+ MORE!

The program provides: Doulas

One-on-one Childbirth and delivery support Postpartum mom/baby care Stress Management: health & nutrition 24/7® Dad Program supports fathers in developing skills to be positive caregivers

GROWTH

(Giving Resource Opportunities With Trust and Hope) with Doulas and Dads

Services are at no cost

For more information or to register please call (813)-712-6300 or email info@reachupincorprated.org Funding Generously Provided By:

2 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2023

Where world-class medical experts meet care with empathy.

That’s the BayCare effect.

expertise empathy

There’s a feeling you get when you’re being cared for by leading experts who also give you an unmatched level of compassion. Getting both together is a rare and powerful thing. When you experience health care that exceeds your expectations in every way. And you have access to more than 4,000 providers, 30,000 team members and hundreds of convenient locations—that’s when you feel it. That’s the BayCare effect.

TheBayCareEffect.org

23-3044229-1023

NOVEMBER 2023 TampaBayParenting.com 3

NOVEMBER 2023 CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND EDITORIAL MANAGER Laura Byrne ASSOCIATE EDITORS Anu Varma Panchal Brie Gorecki OPERATIONS MANAGER Zoe Joiner CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Laura Byrne Brie Gorecki Anu Varma Panchal Erica Edwards Sarah Martisek Tara Payor, PhD Julie Tingley Heidi Colom Courtney Cairns Pastor Mark Heller Mary Ellen Collins Thomas Gellar, MD Yamel Belen Maggie Rodriguez Laura Cross ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Ralf Gonzalez LAYOUT & DESIGN Jennifer Dufek CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Laura Byrne Luxe Light Images @tampabirthphotographer BOOKKEEPING James Anderson TAMPA BAY PARENTING MAGAZINE 320 W. Kennedy Blvd. Ste. 220 Tampa, Florida 33606 Phone 813-949-4400 Fax 813-315-6688 info@tbparenting.com editor@tbparenting.com BECOME A FAN tampabayparenting @tampabayparenting @TBParenting

Articles 8 // A Call to Serve: Meet Rebecca Bacon, the new executive director of the Children's Board of Hillsborough County 14 // COVER STORY: The Gift of HOPE with

Metropolitan Ministries: Learn how your family can give back to thousands of families in need this holiday season

16 // The Chef’s Table: Chef Chad Johnson, executive chef of Bern’s Steakhouse and Haven, talks about the legacy of Bern’s and life at home as Dad 21 // Celebrate the Holidays in Tampa Bay:

Some of our favorite holiday events kick off this month

25 // HOLIDAYS at LEGOLAND: Unwrap Bricktastic Family Traditions at LEGOLAND Florida 29 // A Tradition of Giving: The Junior League of Tampa’s Holiday Gift Market celebrates 20 years of giving back

30 // Unlock the Power of Conversation with Your Kids: Two local experts share their top tip on talking to your kids, from preschool to the teenage years

32 // Entrepreneurship: Expert tips on starting small businesses and making the American Dream happen 39 // STEM at the Library: Tampa-

Hillsborough County Public Library experts share ways to take advantage of STEM learning through books, streaming, programs and more

40 // Single Gender School Success: Franklin’s Boys and Ferrell’s Girls explain why the all-boy and all-girl environment elevates their learning 46 // The Study of Play: At Corbett Prep,

play is powerful and incorporated into the classroom Tampa Bay Parenting is published twelve times per year and distributed throughout the Tampa Bay community. Tampa Bay Parenting is not responsible for any errors, inaccuracies, omissions or incorrect information (or the consequences related thereto) contained within the magazine or online; readers should not rely on any information contained in the magazine and they should always consult with an appropriate professional for guidance. Tampa Bay Parenting accepts no responsibility for the consequences of error or for any loss or damage suffered by users of any of the information or materials provided by Tampa Bay Parenting. Some content published by Tampa Bay Parenting is sponsored or paid for advertising content, and some individuals quoted or cited in articles have paid for advertising or sponsorships; this content or opinions do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of Tampa Bay Parenting.

55 // We Must Teach History: Mark Heller, head of school at Academy at the Lakes, shares why the study of history creates active, engaged citizens ON THE COVER: Metropolitan Ministries is looking for a few good volunteers like you and the Aguilar family of Tampa! Pictured: Abel, Mayra, Chloe (8) and Liam (5) Aguilar. On page 14, learn more about how your family can give the gift of HOPE to a family in need through your time and financial support.

4 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2023

2023-2024 EDUCATION guide YOUR GUIDE TO TAMPA BAY AREA SCHOOLS

56 // Financial Literacy: Shorecrest Preparatory School’s new focus on financial literacy is critical in helping to set up students for success in life 66 // Knight’s Story: A rare genetic

mutation won’t stop a local preschooler, thanks to lifesaving support from Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital

69 // The Most Important Conversations: BayCare Kids introduces a game-changing resource to battle mental health disorders

Every Issue: 6 // Noteworthy: What’s new and notable in Tampa Bay and beyond

11 // November Top Picks: Our favorite things to do this month 34 // Moms to Know: Meet Mandy Schulis, founder of The Story Shift 37 // Kids to Know: Meet Dev Shah, winner of the 2023 Scripps National Spelling Bee 70 // What’s Trending on TampaBayParenting.com: See what’s going on between the issues on our digital platforms

ROUTINE TO HIGH RISK

WHERE YOU DELIVER MATTERS Tampa General Hospital is ranked #9 in the nation for Obstetrics & Gynecology. As the highest-ranked hospital in Florida for Obstetrics & Gynecology by U.S. News & World Report and one of the nation’s best by Newsweek, TGH delivers more babies than any hospital in the region and is the only hospital in Hillsborough County designated a Baby-Friendly® birth facility. Our team of USF Health specialists and private practice physicians provides unrivaled support and care — from pregnancy to delivery. And should you need it, our Jennifer Leigh Muma Neonatal Intensive Care Unit delivers the highest level of care to infants and women with high-risk pregnancies.

TGH.org/Women Florida’s Leading Academic Health System For Over 50 Years NOVEMBER 2023 TampaBayParenting.com 5

NOTEWORTHY november

Busch Gardens Announces a NEW Family-Friendly Coaster! An all-new family-friendly coaster is soaring into Busch Gardens Tampa Bay in Spring 2024! Phoenix Rising will land in Pantopia and become the largest familyfriendly addition to that area of the park AND the first coaster to feature onboard audio! The ride has a minimum height requirement of 42 inches, making this the perfect attraction for thrill-seeking families to experience together.

See What’s New at the Zoo for 2024! ZooTampa recently announced some major updates to the zoo starting next year! During their “Year of More,” guests will be able to feed stingrays at the all-new Stingray Shores, get up close to the animals in new Signature Encounters, explore the completely re-imagined Australia area, visit Prehistoric Predators from JanuaryApril and view the manatees in their expanded David A. Straz, Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center.

Waddle on Over to Sea World Orlando Next Spring for Penguin Trek! The eighth (and cutest) coaster to join Sea World Orlando is opening next spring. Designed as THE ultimate family launch coaster experience, the all-new Penguin Trek will feature a unique snowmobilestyled ride car where once aboard, riders will embark on an exhilarating journey through the breathtaking vastness of Antarctica as they join a penguin research mission unlike any other.

New Women’s Pro Soccer Team Set to Play in Downtown Tampa The waterfront stadium at Tampa’s Blake High School will serve as the temporary home for Tampa Bay’s team in the new USL Super League. The top-tier women’s pro soccer team will take the field in August 2024. Partnering with the school district, the team will upgrade and expand the stadium at no cost to taxpayers. The club will play its first few seasons there before moving to a permanent stadium, but the upgrades are permanent and will remain with the school.

6 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2023

TECO Manatee Viewing Center Reopens for the Season The Manatee Viewing Center is reopening to the public from Nov. 1, 2023 to April 15, 2024. View manatees up close as they seek warm water discharge from Tampa Electric’s Big Bend Power Station in Apollo Beach (don’t worry – the water is clean and safe for the manatees!). It’s free to view, plus you can head downstairs to see the stingray touch tank, operated in partnership with the Florida Aquarium. Also beginning Nov. 1, guests to the Florida Conservation and Technology Center can walk the along the porch of their Sea Turtle Rehabilitation building.

NOVEMBER 2023 TampaBayParenting.com 7

QA &

Meet Rebecca Bacon, the new Executive Director of the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County Meet Rebecca Bacon, the new executive director of the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County On Oct. 1, Bacon stepped into a new role after the Governing Board of the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County named her the new executive director. Bacon replaces Kelley Parris, who served in the role for 10 years.

We recently caught up with Bacon to learn about the future of the Children’s Board under her leadership.

TBPM: For those who are new to our area and may not be familiar with the Children's Board, tell us about its role in our community.

which case managers work with families to identify their strengths, needs and goals and establish an individual family support plan. As a last resort of payment, ASO funds can be accessed by case managers and used to pay for a wide variety of services for families.

RB: The Children’s Board was established in 1989 as a special taxing district dedicated to improving the lives of children and families in Hillsborough County. The Children’s Board funds quality programs and services to ensure that children are healthy and safe, developmentally on track, ready to learn and succeed early in school, and have family support.

As ASO Director, I managed multiple funding sources and trained case management programs to access flexible funds. I was responsible for directing a variety of functions including contracting and payments, financial reporting, provider credentialing and network management and quality assurance.

In 2022, the Children’s Board funded over 100 programs and served more than 178,000 residents. For more information, please visit www. childrensboard.org and review our Family Guide. TBPM: Tell us about yourself. RB: I have dedicated my career to serving children and families and worked in many areas over the last 30 years. Early on, I worked in children’s mental health, the child welfare system and as a social services counselor at a local elementary school. I also coordinated respite programs and worked with teens in the foster care system. Twenty years ago, I was hired by a national firm to work on the implementation of an innovative funding model known as the Children’s Board Administrative Services Organization (ASO). The ASO was brought in-house by the Children’s Board in 2007, and I have been with the agency since then. I am a long-time resident of Hillsborough County, where I live with my husband and children. I have dedicated my personal life to raising boys and have a 29-year-old son and 11-year-old twins. TBPM: Prior to being appointed executive director with the Children’s Board, tell us about what you did as Director of ASO with the Children’s Board. RB: The ASO is a special program operated by the Children’s Board to manage flexible funds. The ASO supports a wraparound approach in

8 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2023

TBPM: What is your vision for the agency? RB: The Children’s Board has strategically invested funds in early intervention and prevention services to support families and prevent the need for more costly interventions. As our county experiences unprecedented growth, it is critical to retain our focus while ensuring funding is directed to underserved areas to meet the greatest needs. We will pay attention to emerging issues and work collaboratively with our partners to address them. It is also imperative that we maintain accountability to the taxpayers and protect this precious resource. TBPM: Tell us about the 2023 Town Hall Report. RB: Every three years, the Children’s Board goes through an in-depth process to engage families and community stakeholders to gather information that will inform the release of future funding. This process was recently completed, with a summary report available on our website. There are several concerns that rise to the top of the list, including children and caregiver’s mental health, services for children with exceptional needs, the shortage of quality early learning options and affordable housing. Although not all the critical issues identified in the report fall within our mission, it is an excellent document for the county, city, the faith community, business and other organizations to see where they can plug in to meet the needs of children and families.

SON IN-PER T UA L

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PRESENTED BY

NOV 23rd

THANKSGIVING DAY

STARTS & ENDS in DOWNTOWN TAMPA near Amalie Arena! For more information and to register, visit: turkeygobble.tampaymca.org

SPONSORED IN PART BY:

2021

NOVEMBER 2023 TampaBayParenting.com 9

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NOVEMBER Top Picks Our favorite family-friendly events in Tampa Bay

JUNIOR LEAGUE OF TAMPA HOLIDAY GIFT MARKET NOV. 9-12

Celebrating their 20th year, The Holiday Gift Market is the Junior League’s largest fundraiser, bringing together merchants and shoppers for a unique shopping event. Funds raised go toward their community projects and programs. The event will take place at the Florida State Fairgrounds and tickets are required. Visit jltampa.org to purchase yours.

Junior League of Tampa Holiday Gift Market Pinocchio at St. Pete Opera

THE MOTHER OF ALL BABY SHOWERS

NOV. 10

Head to the Glazer Children’s Museum for the 10th annual Mother of All Baby Showers! This adultsonly event celebrates all things pregnancy and parenting with a fun night out. It's filled with food and drinks, mini spa treatments, local products and services, educational sessions on the ABCs of pregnancy and parenting and giveaways! You can also “test before you invest” the latest parenting and pregnancy products! themotherofallbabyshowers.com

ST. PETE OPERA PRESENTS PINOCCHIO NOV. 10-11 AND 18-19

Fast-moving, colorful and comical, this one-hour opera adapted from Carlo Collodi’s timeless tale includes captivating scenes and songs that highlight the opera’s heartwarming message of the importance of family, friendships and always telling the truth. Featuring easy-to-understand English lyrics. stpeteopera.org

SANDING OVATIONS MASTER CUP

Sanding Ovations Master Cup

NOV. 16-26

See Treasure Island’s beach come to life at the 2023 Sanding Ovations. Taking place Nov. 16-19 and 25-26, you can see extraordinary creations adorn the beach in a unique way – all created by master sand sculptors from around the world! There will also be live entertainment, fireworks and a kite festival. sandingovationsmastercup.com

CLEARWATER MARINE AQUARIUM’S SEA-SONAL FAMILY FUN DAYS NOV. 20-22

Spend your school breaks with Clearwater Marine Aquarium! Participants will explore Clearwater Marine Aquarium and enjoy fun, educational programming all about the work that CMA does. Each morning has a specific marine science focus to explore. Explore marine science through hands-on experiments and activities. cmaquarium.org

TAMPA YMCA TURKEY GOBBLE PRESENTED BY ADVENTHEALTH

NOV. 23

This Thanksgiving morning race tradition returns for its ninth year, benefitting LIVESTRONG AT THE YMCA. Runners will begin and end at Amalie Arena. Choose from the 1 mile fun run, 5K run/walk, or virtual 5K from anywhere. New this year – recognition awards will be given to first, second and third place in-person racers in various age groups. To register, visit tampaymca.org.

WANT MORE?

SCAN THE QR CODE FOR WEEKEND TOP PICKS

Tampa YMCA Turkey Gobble NOVEMBER 2023 TampaBayParenting.com 11

Classes on sale now. Enroll today!

Dance • Theater • Music

Talent-based and need-based scholarships are available! patelconservatory.org • 813.222.1040 12 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2023

#SHAREHOPE 30,000 struggling families are counting on us this Holiday Season. Donate food and toys, volunteer, or give today. Share Hope in Tampa Bay. @METROMIN.ORG NOVEMBER 2023 TampaBayParenting.com 13

COVER STORY

The Gift of HOPE at Metropolitan Ministries by Laura Byrne

Every holiday season, 36,500 square feet of hope rises from the ground along north Rome Avenue in Tampa in the form of the Metropolitan Ministries Holiday Tent. A place where people of all ages who are called to serve give back, the tent has served as a beacon of hope for struggling families in Tampa Bay since 1995. This year, the nonprofit that has been uplifting local families for 51 years is experiencing an increase in need for services due to inflation, the rising cost of housing and lingering impacts from the pandemic. And YOU can help them meet that need and make all the difference in the world to a family this holiday season. #SHAREHOPE.

THE NEED Metropolitan Ministries has seen a 71% increase in families facing homelessness this year compared to last year. Many of those families are two-parent working households that are simply struggling to make ends meet as the cost of living soars in Tampa Bay. The organization has also seen a 15% increase in seniors on fixed incomes who are skipping meals and medical care in order to pay rent. The nonprofit expects to serve 30,000 families this holiday season, which includes 60,000 children. But they can’t do it without you.

HOW YOUR FAMILY CAN HELP

You can support the Holiday Tent in many ways, whether you give the gift of your time, donations and/or make a financial contribution. This is a time of year when many families ask how they can volunteer together with the kids and this is a perfect opportunity. Kids as young as 8 can volunteer with their parents in many volunteer roles in the holiday tents, including sorting food and toy donations, stocking shelves and building food boxes for families. It’s truly a unique way for your family to not only volunteer together, but witness the true impact of your gift of time. If your kids are still too young, consider taking them shopping to pick up some of the most needed food

items and gifts for kids like them. And make sure to bring your kids with you when you drop off the donations at the Holiday Tent so they can see the power of community at work. There is also high need for bilingual English/Spanish-speaking volunteers.

IMPACT: YOUR TIME MATTERS

Each year, 15,000 volunteers serve in the Holiday Tents and 10 other pop-up sites, giving over 150,000 hours of their time. That’s the equivalent of $4.5 million in labor costs. Your time absolutely matters. In addition to volunteer hours, 30 community partners pick up food and toys and distribute the items to communities.

#SHARE H O P E 14 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2023

HOLIDAY TENT LOCATIONS: Metropolitan Ministries Holiday Tent Main Hub-Hillsborough 2609 N. Rome Ave. Tampa, FL 33607

Metropolitan Ministries Holiday Tent-West Pasco Generations Christian Church 1540 Little Road Trinity, FL 34655

OTHER DONATION DROP-OFF SITES:

Northern Hillsborough St. James United Methodist Church 16202 Bruce B Downs Blvd. Tampa, FL 33647

METROPOLITAN MINISTRIES ON THE SIGNIFICANCE OF HOPE:

This little word plays a big role in our lives. We hear it from our clients time and again—"You gave me hope to go on another day.” Hope can be the difference between giving up and holding on. Hope can be the thing that keeps us going. Hope can be the feeling that helps us believe and work for a better life. HOPE reminds us that this season of pain isn’t forever.

Central Pasco Keystone Community Church 21010 State Road 54 Lutz, FL 33558

It’s not about the food, or the toy, or any other commodity. It’s the comfort in knowing that somebody cares for and believes in you. And that is what Metropolitan Ministries is all about.

Learn more about donating, volunteering and even how to get help if you need it by visiting www.metromin.org or calling 813-209-1000.

MOST NEEDED ITEMS THIS YEAR: • Frozen turkeys and hams • Cereal • Canned yams • Stuffing • Cranberry sauce • Gift cards for toys and food • Gifts for teens ages 13-17 You can also shop the virtual store: www.metromin.org/holidaystore

LEARN MORE: HOW TO VOLUNTEER AS A FAMILY IN TAMPA BAY

NOVEMBER 2023 TampaBayParenting.com 15

Bern’s Steakhouse Executive Chef, Chad Johnson, on Bern’s Legacy and Life at Home by Brie Gorecki

On why Bern’s remains a Tampa institution:

“If you're a Tampa local, this is where you celebrate all life's big moments—birthdays, anniversaries, closing the big business deal. And a lot of that too is people want that same experience. They want to remember when they got engaged here in the '70s; they want to have those things. So, we find that balance. The banana cheese pie upstairs—that thing's never going away. The macadamia ice cream ... there are certain elements of Bern’s that are just always going to be here. The style of service that we do, the rigorous training of service, the wine collection ... the heart and soul of Bern's is not going to change. We just make sure we keep it up to the standard that Bern’s set. And then we put on our own little twist and our own little spin to keep it modern and relevant for the next generation of diners.”

On Bern’s iconic ambiance:

We first caught up with Chef Chad Johnson in 2016 when he and his family graced our November cover, and then again in February 2019 to ensure we included the newest addition to his family, Harper, who was a tiny baby during the first photoshoot. A lot has changed since then. The kids are older, the Tampa Bay food scene has exploded along with our population, and Johnson's duties at work have expanded. He moved into the executive role at Bern's Steakhouse about a year ago, and he is also the executive chef at Haven. But what hasn’t changed is that Bern’s remains a family tradition for so many people in Tampa Bay. It was first opened in 1974 by Bern and Gert Laxer, and as it prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary next year, we caught up with Chef Johnson to talk more about what makes Bern’s so special and about his home life as dad!

16 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2023

“The ambience of Bern’s is definitely part of the dining experience. I mean, depending on which dining room and space you're in, it's like dining in a museum. And like I said, I've been here almost 20 years and every day, I swear I almost hear some kind of unique factor story about the grandfather clock or this painting or whatever it may be. And that's part of the fun thing about Bern’s is those stories and the history of the place. It's just a verbal history that lives on with our team. We have multiple servers with 30-plus years with us, you know, and they worked with Bern and Gert and some of them were here when some of these things came in and were built, and they continue to tell this story to the next generation. It's those little tidbits that are part of the unique experience that makes Bern’s. It’s the history behind it.”

Johnson Family in Breckenridge

On why Bern’s is a perfect spot for families:

“One of the first things I did last year is that I rolled out a kid’s menu for Bern’s. We always were able to accommodate children, you know—steak tips, hamburger, cheeseburger, butter noodles. But it was always kind of this verbal dialogue between the parent and the server. And so finally, I just made the menu, made it simple for everybody. So, if you sit down and you have the little ones with you, get your kids' menu. And then if the kids are wanting to try and get a little more adventuresome, one thing that we pride ourselves on is being able to accommodate our guests’ wishes. If there's something on the menu that we have on the ‘grown up menu’ that's not on the kid’s menu, we can tone it down and work around it. I've had a lot of kids over the years, and they'll try things for the first time, and we get a kick out of that, you know, if we can introduce the kid to the first-time having tuna or snapper or whatever. But we still have a children's menu because yes, Bern’s is definitely one of the cliché date night places, but it’s also a family restaurant at any given night. I was speaking with one of our tenured servers a couple of weeks ago and she was remarking that, that night, she was waiting on the fourth generation of a family. The little kids are now the parents, grown up in the restaurant.”

Chad at Home:

“Honestly, I cook for the wife and kids. On my days off I meal prep for the week. Sometimes I make composed dishes, sometimes it’s cooked chicken and Brussels sprouts and then my wife will heat it up. It’s weird that the more you progress in this industry, a lot of times the farther away from the food you get. So, my job, I spend a lot more time on the phone and computer than I would have imagined. I miss sometimes just cooking on the line with the guys, but grocery shopping is kind of my Zen thing. My wife loves it because she hates grocery shopping, but

just going to the store, going up and down the aisle and just zoning out, that’s my way of relaxing. And then every weekend I go home and cook for the kiddos. Bits and pieces from the dishes here and at Haven I’ll make at home. It’s usually a little less fluffy than the restaurant. I don’t tend to use microgreens and tweezers at the house.”

Chad at home during the holidays: “Thanksgiving is usually at my mother’s house and we kind of divide and conquer. She makes most of the sides and I do the turkey. I’ll make a side here and there. Love you mom, but you overcook the turkey every time.

Christmas is my house and I do the whole meal and it’s a big blow out of Southern cooking. It’s not restaurant food. It’s home cooking done with love. I always joke at a holiday meal, if 20 extra people show up, we’re covered.”

Johnson Family at Central Park, New York

Tips for the perfect turkey?

“You can cook a turkey fried, roasted, smoked…brine the turkey. The biggest thing is just brine the turkey. And I know everyone loves that whole turkey presentation, but getting the legs and the breasts to cook at the same time is—I don’t want to say it’s impossible, but it’s almost impossible. So, if you want the wow factor, I get it. Go for it. But if you want to have it properly cooked, butcher the bird and cook it separate. Brining it is by far the most important thing.”

Favorite things to do as a family in Tampa Bay?

“My kids keep us pretty busy with extra-curricular activities, but we love going down to the Riverwalk. Both my girls dance, so we don’t get there often, but going to things at the Straz. They love going to that stuff.”

FUN FACTS

Bern’s wine list is 182 pages long. Their collection has over half a million bottles and 6,800 selections.

They offer tours of their wine cellar and kitchen upon request. Both tours are free and familyfriendly.

Bern’s servers go through an extensive year-long training.

All the pictures in the Harry Waugh Dessert Room were taken by Bern Laxer of pages out of Gert’s personal cookbooks.

Bern’s takes reservations online starting 60 days in advance. If you’re thinking of spending the holidays at Bern’s or looking to make a reservation for a date night or special location, visit bernssteakhouse.com/reservation.

NOVEMBER 2023 TampaBayParenting.com 17

Join us for the beloved Gaylord Hotels tradition – ICE!®. Step into an extraordinary winter wonderland and see “A Charlie Brown Christmas” brought to life in ice, zoom down epic frozen slides, and explore our extraordinary resort and endless Christmas activities. Book a room night or package and receive exclusive benefits for overnight guests. NOV. 17 - JAN.3 ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com

18 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2023

ZooTampa’s

Select nights starting November 24

Christmas in the Wild returns this holiday season with even more lights and festive entertainment for all ages! Create new family memories and connect with amazing wildlife at Tampa's most beloved holiday celebration.

Give the Gift of Year-Round Adventures ZooTampa Members get unlimited admission for 12 months, flexibility to bring your choice of guest(s), plus discounts on dining, shopping, Signature Encounters, & more!

ZooTampa.org

NOVEMBER 2023 TampaBayParenting.com 19

MAKE NEW MEMORIES EVERY NIGHT AT BUSCH GARDENS CHRISTMAS TOWN! Every Night

Nov. 11 - Jan. 7 Included with Park Admission

FUN CARD

• Story time with Mrs. Claus • Millions of twinkling lights • Christmas on Ice Show • Sing-A-Long Train • Santa's North Pole Experience presented by Coca-Cola

FUN CARDS MAKE THE PERFECT GIFT! ENJOY UNLIMITED VISITS NOW THROUGH 2024 with the purchase of a Busch Gardens Fun Card.

BuschGardensTampa.com Service fees and taxes not included. 2024 Fun Card valid through December 31, 2024 at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Adventure Island. Does not include admission to select special events (including Howl-O-Scream® at Busch Gardens), parking or discounts on food and merchandise. Non-transferable and non-refundable. Not valid with other discounts or special offers. Discounted price applies to online advance purchases only and is not available at the park. Other restrictions apply. Subject to change without prior notice.

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It’s happening... The Holiday Season is Here! The lights are twinkling, the bells are jingling and even the jolly old elf is heading south to Tampa Bay this month! Some of the area’s biggest holiday events are kicking off early and we’re sharing some of our favorites. It’s perfect timing for those of you who are hosting friends and family for the Thanksgiving holiday! Christmas Town at Busch Gardens Nov. 11, 2023 – Jan. 7, 2024 Enjoy park-wide festive fun at this award-winning holiday event that features millions of twinkling lights and holiday cheer all around. Ride the Holly Jolly Express train, view the lights from the top of a roller coaster, visit Santa in his workshop, and even spend time with Rudolph and his friends from the classic holiday movie, “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park Nov. 17, 2023 - Jan. 1, 2024 Ice skating among the palm trees and holiday lights in downtown is a must-do at Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park! But, there’s so much more than skating here. Stay and explore the village. Shop local businesses in the market, grab a snack and hot cocoa, take plenty of Instaworthy photos, and, on select nights, ride the trackless choo-choo for around the park. Gingerbread Village at Glazer Children’s Museum Nov. 21 – Dec. 31 Gingerbread Village is the place to unleash your building skills! Craft your very own gingerbread house from recycled materials provided by the museum to add to the Gingerbread Village. It’s a maker's winter wonderland! While you’re there, be sure to impress your guests with a visit to Big John, the world’s largest real fossil triceratops on display on the third floor. It’s included with admission.

Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village Drive-Thru Lights at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds Nov. 23-Dec. 31; 6-9 p.m. weekdays; 6-10 p.m. weekends Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village is undergoing a big upgrade for 2023 with an expanded 2-mile drive featuring more than one million lights, including new displays you haven’t seen before. Returning favorites include Santa’s Village, holiday-themed rides, a selfguided walking tour of Hometown Hillsborough Historical Village, fire pits for smores, camel rides and more! It’s $25 per car for up to eight people. Holiday Lights & Rides at Largo Central Park Nov. 23 – Dec. 31 from 5- 10 pm The annual family-friendly tradition at the 70-acre Largo Central Park will feature a spectacular holiday light display of over 2 million dazzling LED lights. Guests can also enjoy a stunning carousel and a seven-story Ferris wheel for a small fee. Christmas in the Wild at ZooTampa Select nights Nov. 24 – Dec. 30 Enjoy one of Tampa’s largest light displays as the zoo transforms into a seasonal wonderland. This year’s promises to be bigger, better and brighter, but you are guaranteed to experience returning favorites like the Holiday Signature Animal Encounters, visits with Santa, Cookie Decorating with Mrs. Claus and MORE! Christmas in the Wild at ZooTampa

Enchant Christmas in St. Pete

Santa at The Florida Aquarium Nov. 24, 25 and 26 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and then weekends through Dec. 17

Enchant Christmas in St. Pete Nov. 24 - Dec. 31 The magic of Enchant Christmas is returning to Tropicana Field with millions of twinkling lights in an all-new light maze with a new theme, Reindeer Games. The indoor experience also features a Village to shop local boutiques and vendors, an ice-skating trail, Santa’s Landing, and even a Little Elves Play Place for little kids to unwind for a bit. It’s one of our favorite new holiday traditions in Tampa Bay!

Santa may be used to flying in his sleigh, but he’s spending some time among the sea creatures this holiday season at The Florida Aquarium. You’ll find him on the second floor in Santa’s Workshop. If you haven’t been to the Aquarium in a while, they recently added the new MORPH’D exhibit where you can see unique creatures up close, including axolotls. Holidays at LEGOLAND Select days Nov. 24 - Dec. 31 Get ready to celebrate an awesome holiday season at LEGOLAND Resort! This bricktacular event features unforgettable seasonal shows, event-exclusive LEGO holiday characters, sweet treats and special activities. Light displays will twinkle throughout the park and a giant LEGO Christmas tree is sure to mesmerize guests with its 360-degree light show.

WANT MORE? SCAN FOR MORE FUN THINGS TO DO THIS THANKSGIVING BREAK IN TAMPA BAY! NOVEMBER 2023 TampaBayParenting.com 21

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HOLIDAY

Sign your child up for Jr. Bucs - the oﬃcial Tampa Bay Buccaneers fan club for kids ages 14 and under! Every membership gets your child awesome gifts, including: × Jr. Bucs Backpack × Bucs Hat × Football × Lanyard × Oﬃcial Membership Card You’ll also receive invitations to exclusive Buccaneers events that are only for Jr. Bucs and their families.

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PRESENTED BY LEGOLAND FLORIDA

Unwrap Bricktastic Family Traditions during HOLIDAYS at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort by Erica Edwards

LEGO® bricks are hung on the chimney with care, ready for LEGO Santa to deliver the jolliest event of the year! HOLIDAYS at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort returns to the Theme Park for select dates Nov. 24 to Dec. 31 with a flurry of festive shows, Yuletide activities, cheerful LEGO characters and frosted fun. The best part is that the event is included with general park admission and most LEGOLAND Annual Passes. Start the holiday season of right by creating family traditions that can be built upon for years to come.

CHEERFUL LEGO CHARACTERS & TREATS Coming down the chimney with LEGO Santa this season are new and returning Yuletide friends. Click, click, click on over to see LEGO Reindeer Girl, Snowman and Nutcracker, alongside returning Gingerbread. These cheerful characters can be spotted in shows and meet-and-greets and are awesome for Elf-ies!

THE PERFECT GIFT

SEASONAL SHOWS Snow in Florida? It’s a holiday miracle! Prance over to the new Festival of Flurries show to experience a high-energy, snow-filled celebration. Sing and dance along to holly jolly jams while being swept away into a flurry of snow. Continue to celebrate with the LEGOLAND Carolers as they sing seasonal tunes throughout the Park. LEGO Gingerbread Man is also whisking up some holiday magic to bake his way out of a delicious dilemma during the Very Merry Mix Up, and it seems singing along is the perfect way to raise his spirits. Tinsel and tidings are sprinkled across the resort, so make sure to check out all the frosty offerings!

Pro-Parenting tip: Stuff a whole year of awesomeness underneath the tree with a LEGOLAND Florida Resort Annual Pass! Annual Passes start at less than $13 a month and give you the chance to build family memories and traditions throughout the year. For a next-level parenting win, add a holiday bonus with hotel and vacation packages to create a staycation experience with uninterrupted days of fun.

FAMILY TRADITIONS LEGO Santa is accepting letters from guests, so be sure to stop by the Holiday Village Postal Service where his best elves can help your letter fly directly to the North Pole. After sending your letter off, rock around the GIANT 30-foot-tall LEGO Christmas Tree made of 282,000 DUPLO® bricks! Jingle along to tree-rific tinsel tunes and show off your holiday moves underneath a twinkling light show. After dancing till the reindeer come home, spice up your holidays with a feast of festive treats that are sure to make the nice list. Fill your stockings with memorable experiences and treats to make your holiday bright.

BLACK FRIDAY SAVINGS

Unbox the biggest offers of the year with Black Friday Deals! Trim down holiday costs by saving up to 50% on park tickets, annual passes and hotel packages. Scan the QR code below to be the first to see the Black Friday deals!

NOVEMBER 2023 TampaBayParenting.com 25

The World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze

NOV 24 – DEC 31 TROPICANA FIELD ST. PETE

TI C K ETS O N SAL E N OW EnchantChristmas.com

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JOIN US FOR Sea-Sonal Family Fun Days during school break, Nov 20-22, and enjoy fun, educational programming all about marine science with hands-on experiments and activities!

Learn more about programs, upcoming events and buy tickets at NOVEMBER 2023 TampaBayParenting.com 27

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PRESENTED BY THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF TAMPA

Junior League of Tampa Holiday Gift Market Celebrates 20 Years of Giving Back by Sarah Martisek - 2023 Holiday Gift Market Co-Chair

Shop for a Cause to kick off your holiday season cheer at The Junior League of Tampa’s 2Oth annual Holiday Gift Market. The unique shopping experience serves as the organization’s largest fundraising event of the year and brings over 200 vendors and artisans from across the Tampa Bay region to the Florida State Fairgrounds. This year’s Winter Wonderland market runs from Nov. 9-12 and features a record number of merchants, making this the largest HGM ever!

WHEN: PREVIEW NIGHT: Thursday, Nov. 10 (special event ticket required) 6-10 p.m. Preview Party VIP Ticket Admission 7-10 p.m. Preview Night General Ticket Admission GENERAL ADMISSION: Friday, Nov. 10: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 9-10 a.m. Exclusive Early Shopping Ticket Admission (including a bargain bracelet) Saturday, Nov. 11: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 12: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

WHERE: Florida State Fairgrounds Expo Hall & Entertainment Hall 4800 US Highway 301 N., Tampa, FL 33610

COST: General Admission Tickets: $10 online at HolidayGiftMarket.org and $12 day of the event and at the door. Tickets are valid Friday to Sunday. One day entry only. *Admission is free for children ages 5 and under.

PARKING: $10 per car Cash, credit or debit accepted; paid to the Florida State Fairgrounds and not related to the Junior League of Tampa.

TICKETS & MORE DETAILS: Tickets are available at HolidayGIftMarket.org.

The 2023 Market includes several featured events and perks, including:

Preview Night + VIP Preview Party Nov. 9 from 7-10 p.m. is Preview Night, an opportunity for eager attendees to get first dibs on all the best that Holiday Gift Market has to offer. In addition to shopping, Preview Night hosts live music, interactive photo ops and a silent auction. Food and drink are available for purchase, and tickets are $30 for general admission. For shoppers looking to step up their experience, VIP tickets are also available. Doors open an hour early, at 6 p.m., for VIP Preview Party ticket holders. VIP guests enjoy additional perks, including a champagne wall, private lounge space and a selection of hors d’oeuvres as well as other perks! VIP tickets are $100. Preview Night & VIP Preview Party tickets are on sale now.

Bargain Bracelet New this year, shoppers can purchase an HGM Bargain Bracelet. This pass earns shoppers 10% off all Market purchases. Bracelets are valid for one day only and cost $18 in advance online and $20 at the door. The minimum purchase for discount is $25. General admission is not included. Bargain Bracelets are on sale now.

Santa Snaps Santa Claus will stop by the Holiday Gift Market for a photo-op and meet-and-greet. Santa will make his appearance Sunday, Nov. 12, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 each and are priced per group; cost includes one photo, and additional photos may be purchased on site. General Admission not included. Santa Snaps tickets are on sale now.

The Junior League of Tampa commits 100% of the Holiday Gift Market’s net proceeds to funding League efforts in the areas of education and child welfare.

“When you shop at Holiday Gift Market, or attend a Market special event, you are not just supporting a small business, you are also reinvesting in the community through projects, advocacy efforts and grant programs,” says League member Lauren Rice. “The Holiday Gift Market is the reason the League is able to fund projects like the Diaper Bank and Love Bundles.” NOVEMBER 2023 TampaBayParenting.com 29

U N LOC KI N G TH E POWE R O F CO N VE R SATI O N

Let's chat! How to get your kids to talk to you. Two local experts share tips for all ages and stages.

Here are 10 questions and conversation starters that you can use during your afterschool chats to foster better conversations and relationships with your kids:

What made you smile today?

CONNECTING WITH YOUR KIDS BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL by Yamel Belen

Many parents (myself included) strategically plan their day in order to be readily available for car line or afterschool pick up. We are eager to hear all about what our kids learned, what the best part of their day was, whether they enjoyed lunch or what project they have to complete before the end of the week. Let’s face it. We miss our babies, the school day is long, and our years with them are short before they grow up and create their own lives. We all desire a deeper relationship with our kids, including getting a sneak peek or front row seats into their school day through their story telling. However, what ends up happening is that when we ask, “How was school today?” they

BONUS

reply with “fine,” or “ok,” or my favorite, “good.” I desperately wanted that pattern to stop. I am naturally curious (AKA nosy) and that curiosity does not stop when it comes to my children, who are ages 25, 22, 17, 9 and 7 (I have been mothering for a long time now!). Ever since my early days as a mom, there was one thing I wanted: strong relationships with my kids. I continue to work on our relationships now. I wanted to truly get to know them and also be readily available and aware if they were struggling in some way. This starts with healthy dialogue and communication. Research has consistently shown that regular conversations with our children, especially during

key moments such as before bedtime and before and after school, have numerous benefits for their cognitive, emotional and social development. Studies indicate that engaging with our kids in discussion improves academic performance and that our conversations with our kids contribute to enhanced emotional well-being and even language development. My favorite result is the strong family bond: We laugh so hard and also have deep conversations about feelings and manners and goals during our afterschool chats. If you’re wondering how I got my kids to stop responding with the “ok” and “good” when I pick them up from school, here is my tip: I simply changed my questions.

"Tell me about the moment you thanked someone today and what they did for you." Incorporating these conversations into your daily routine can have a profound and lasting impact on your child's development and overall well-being. Let’s build better relationships with our kids today.

Who did you sit next to at lunch?

Tell me about the acts of kindness you saw today.

What part of the day made you super happy?

Can you tell me about someone that was being unkind today?

Did you feel unsafe at all today? Let’s talk about it!

Tell me: How did you help someone today?

What was the most creative thing you did today?

What challenged you today?

Tell me about the conversations between you and your buddies.

Yamel Belen is a registered nurse, doula, lactation expert and parenting podcast host. She is the founder of One Love Doula Services in Tampa Bay and sits on the Advisory Board for Parents Magazine. Find her on TikTok at TheMotherhoodKit where she chats all things Motherhood and even shares more sample conversation starters. You can also tune into The Motherhood Kit Podcast, which airs weekly wherever you listen to your favorite shows. The goal of The Motherhood Kit is to celebrate and elevate motherhood and to add tools to your toolkit, no matter where you are in your journey.

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HOW TO TALK TO YOUR TEENAGER by Maggie Rodriguez, co-host of Daytime on WFLA News Channel 8

No, you’re not the only one. It is common for parents to struggle with communicating with their teenager. “Often as a parent we forget that our teens are growing and changing,” says Desiree Panlilio, founder of “Encouraging Teens.” In her practice as a teen life coach, she also works with parents on effective communication skills which require meeting teens where they are.

independence and autonomy. Our teens want to establish their own identity and make decisions. Include teens in the decisionmaking process and help them build their critical thinking skills. Instead of taking away something your teen has looked forward to because of a poor grade, change the conversation. Ask your teen how they are going to improve their grade. Not going to a party on Friday will not change the grade of last week's math exam.

TBPM: What’s the biggest mistake parents make when communicating with their teenager?

TBPM: How can we help them in school?

DP: Parents often want to “manage” their teen or listen to respond, not understand. Your teen comes home and tells you they broke up with their significant other. Parents often respond that there are lots of other people to date. Then as a parent you go back to what you were doing or follow your agenda of what you want to talk about. We need to stop and understand that for our teen, each experience is new and the emotions are very real and do not need to be minimized. TBPM: What’s the best time to talk to them? DP: The best time to talk to your teen is when they are ready. I know we all have had the call from the school and talked to a teacher or administrator about something “bad” that our teen did. I encourage parents to not “attack” their teen the minute they walk in the door but let your teen come home, decompress and then have the conversation about the situation and how to correct it. Teens are most open to talking when they feel safe and [when they know] that we are going to listen to understand and not to discipline or blame. TBPM: What is the most common complaint you hear from teens about how their parents treat them? DP: Teens often feel that their parents don't listen to them or take their opinions seriously, leading to frustration and a sense of being misunderstood. Over time, this erodes trust and the parent-teen relationship. Our teens also desire more

DP: If your teen is struggling with a class, ask them what they feel the problem is and how you can help. If the teen is doing poorly because they are sitting with their friends and laughing during class, then it is having your teen be responsible and move seats. If your teen is going in for help after school and still struggling, do they need a tutor? Listen to the reason behind the struggle, ask lots of questions and help your teen create a pathway to success and take responsibility and accountability for their learning needs. This will go a long way in helping your teen create goals for themselves throughout their life. TBPM: How can we help them with social problems? DP: Do not provide ready-made solutions. Guide them in problem-solving. Otherwise, the outcome will be your fault. Having your teen discover a solution and to try it out helps build their confidence and problem-solving skills. Also, by role-modeling empathy and active listening, we are teaching our teens to do the same with their friendships, which helps to create stronger relationships. TBPM: What’s your best general advice for parents of a teen? DP: My best advice is to offer a safe and non-judgmental environment where teens feel comfortable and will discuss anything with you. Continually build trust and remember that communication is the relationship. Never stop communicating and loving your teen unconditionally.

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Entrepreneurship: Living the American Dream by Tara Payor, Ph.D.

There’s something exciting, enchanting even, about the entrepreneurial spirit. Post-pandemic, there’s been a surge in entrepreneurship—with women at the fore. Entrepreneurs, who bolster economic growth, are celebrated on the third Tuesday of November: National Entrepreneur’s Day. Bay area parents enticed by the entrepreneurial, American dream can lean on the Small Business Development Center for expertise and support on the journey to starting and growing a business. The Florida SBDC at University of South Florida (USF) works with all for-profit, small business owners in the 10-county Tampa Bay region. Stacey Dadd, the Associate Director, along with local parententrepreneurs, shares insights about pursuing the entrepreneurial path. TBPM: What are the non-negotiables when starting a business? SD: Planning and capital investment. Funds are always needed for licensing, a website and basic marketing. Build it and they will come doesn’t apply to most small businesses. TBPM: What big mistakes do you see new entrepreneurs make? SD: Not doing enough research ahead of launching—just running with it. Through market research or breakeven analysis, they learn there's no market for it. Greatness at one’s trade doesn’t mean greatness at entrepreneurship. TBPM: How do entrepreneurs balance between too-conservative and too-ambitious goals? SD: An impartial third party who's been there helps. All SBDC consultants previously owned businesses. Our purpose is ensuring entrepreneurs succeed. Sometimes, thriving clients want more growth; we've expressed, “You're not ready.” Growing too fast in business is problematic. TBPM: Most important habits of successful entrepreneurs? SD: Persistence, adaptability and work ethic. Running one’s own business isn’t easier than working for another. Initially, entrepreneurship can mean more hours, more stress and less family time—missing family functions for presentations to potential investors. Entrepreneurship means rolling with it. TBPM: Are soft skills integral? SD: Yes. A client with 20+ years of photography-businessexperience branched out alone, believing clients would come because he’d been around so long. He struggled with pitching his business. He didn’t like talking to people. The company folded because he couldn’t communicate. Being personable and capable of the 90-second elevator pitch are essential. Learn more about the SBDC: sbdctampabay.com

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Stacy Yates

Owner of Yates Law Firm (est. 2022) Social: @tampalawstacy Biggest learning experiences in running a business? Handling the business side of a law practice. Lawyers aren’t taught business management. My husband, a business owner, helps answer business and finance questions. Daily routines? I work more clearly after movement in my morning and tackle the most dreaded task first. Weekly, I try meeting a new friend, colleague or mentor for coffee. I always learn something, and it fuels my fire. Additional advice? Just start. The hardest part is taking the leap to follow a dream. I started, stopped and re-started several times. Finally, I was brave enough to do it. I wish I would have when it first tugged at my heart.

Tina Novak Robles

Director of Entertainment Revue (est. 1989) Social: @entertainmentrevue When did you consider your business a success? When I saw friendships bloom and young stars shine across 30 years, I knew we weren't just a group, we were a legacy of empowerment. Most satisfying entrepreneur moment? The sheer joy of witnessing our talented girls bring my vision to life on stage, combined with their heartfelt testimonials, is beyond rewarding. Qualities entrepreneurs must possess? Successful entrepreneurship blends creativity, adaptability, unwavering dedication, an openness to feedback, and a genuine passion for one's craft.

Jennifer Holden

Owner of AR Workshop Tampa (since 2022) Social: @arworkshoptampa Biggest learning experiences in running a business? Creating work-life balance. I’m 75% there. As expected, ensuring success by having people enjoy their experiences in the shop takes much time and dedication. I’ve learned flexibility at work and at home are key. Daily routines? Starting with exercise helps with mental clarity and readiness to conquer the day. I hit the ground running: answering emails, making phone calls, creating designs and preparing for classes. Who do you look to for mentorship? The AR Workshop Franchise provides mentorship from the get-go. Monthly meetings for new owners allow for discussing successes, issues and ideas.

Sarah Niesyty

Owner of Cookies By Sarah (est. 2022) Social: @cookies.by.Sarah Why did you start your own business?

Matt Nielsen

Owner of Recess Tampa (est. 2022) Social: @recesstampa Why did you start your own business? I realized I could provide a unique experience by coupling my passions for teaching kids and personal fitness. RECESS was born. Biggest learning experiences in running a business? Setting designated time for RECESS, typically late at night, as I teach P.E. full time. Success requires responsiveness to potential clients. Has entrepreneurship helped you grow personally? Starting RECESS and seeing it grow reassured me entrepreneurship was the right move for my family. The time demands caused reprioritizing things in my life. Additional advice? Go all in. My only regret is not starting sooner.

I inherited my dad’s entrepreneurial mindset. Growing up, I looked for ways to create things and make money. I stumbled on Cookies by Sarah after making cookies for my daughter’s First Communion. I enjoyed the creative outlet and started making cookies for my students. After growing confident enough to sell my cookies, and as the business grew, I knew I couldn’t continue growing if I continued teaching. I haven’t looked back. How did you market your new business? I relied heavily on Instagram. Teaching full time and new to Tampa, it made most sense. Early on, it felt like more time Instagramming than baking. Most satisfying entrepreneur moment? When my largest order came through. It was a volume I’d never done, and it challenged me in many ways. Handing them to the client was so satisfying. Qualities entrepreneurs must possess? Advocating for yourself—for your business. Pleasing everybody is impossible and boundaries are integral. NOVEMBER 2023 TampaBayParenting.com 33

Moms to Know Mandy Schulis

Founder of The Story Shift by Julie Tingley, founder of @weemacree

TBPM: Can you tell us more about your journey to becoming a certified, trauma-informed story coach? MS: Every job I have ever had as an adult has been about people and listening. I was a recruiter for Florida State University for several years and a nurse recruiter for a year outside of college. Massage therapy happened because I have always been good with my hands and fascinated by the human body. I quickly realized that I learned more in 15 minutes talking to my client than I ever did reading an intake sheet. I listened to what they said, but also, what they didn’t say. I wasn’t just a massage therapist, I was a neuromuscular therapist trained in PTSD, Fascial Release and Trigger Point Therapy (the Trager method). This meant that I had a LOT of clients that had chronic pain, fibromyalgia, etc. I was heartbroken when I had to retire due to nerve damage. After about 6 months of trying to use my business background to launch a digital marketing firm, I noticed a pattern. MANY of the female owned businesses that came to me were stuck in their own “pain,” but it was story related. Both the “self-stories” that lead to fear and lack of self-worth but also shame. I am a domestic abuse survivor, and I talk a LOT about this. Successful women have the misconception that owning those parts of their story make them weak or that people will judge them. What happens is they develop a bulletproof mindset, and their businesses thrive. I chose to get certified because I wanted to be 100% confident in what I was teaching and how. TBPM: Please explain how your signature method, “The Story Shift,” works and how it helps female entrepreneurs overcome mindset barriers. MS: What you are doing is identifying when you developed your “story beliefs.” We also identify which stories aren’t yours or are patently false. Then, we re-write them into something that you feel is YOURS and also identify how you can use it to build a solid business foundation. TBPM: Can you share a personal example of how your own story has played a significant role in your entrepreneurial journey? MS: I have always believed that we are here on this earth to make it better. My personal story is being a phoenix that refuses to stay ashes. This is the fourth time I am rebuilding my life, but this feels like the one that will stick. I feel like it’s been waiting for me.

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In her own journey, marked by resilience and a belief in fairytales, Schulis has woven the threads of her experiences, her passion for storytelling and her commitment to helping others into a tapestry of encouragement and empowerment. She is a fearless survivor, a mindful author and our mom to know.

Meet Mandy Schulis, a certified trauma-informed story coach and a driving force behind inspiring female entrepreneurs to dismantle their own barriers and harness the power of their unique stories. Her signature methodology, aptly named "The Story Shift," has become her superpower, enabling her clients to unlock the profound potential within their personal narratives. ph

TBPM: As a domestic abuse (DV) survivor and former single mom, how have your personal experiences shaped your approach working with clients and co-parenting with your husband today? MS: My current husband is my rock and best friend. We go toe to toe and there is no pride or shame. We can discuss anything and often do. This translates to how we parent our kids and our family meetings. If one of us has a problem, we ALL have a problem. We are Team Schu, no question about it. We are also hyper protective of our home being a safe space. Now, in terms of working with clients, DV gave me a superpower type intuition. I know when my clients have experienced this long before they tell me. I also know when they aren’t ready to work with me. I am very upfront that I do all things with love, but I am not your cheerleader. You better come ready to work and get uncomfortable. TBPM: Can you give our readers some practical advice on how they can start identifying and leveraging their own stories to create purpose, profit and fun in their lives? MS: Go digging for gold. I guarantee you your story has given you more “expertise” than you can imagine. For instance, if I tell you I’m a former single mom, DV survivor and chronic entrepreneur, you already know I can stretch a dollar, have very little room for inauthenticity, and that I am probably pretty creative. Let your people find you. Your story is the way to do that. TBPM: Could you share a personal favorite fairytale or story that has had a lasting impact on you and your perspective on life today? MS: Cinderella, hands down. I wanted a prince on a white horse, but I got a lawyer in a white Jeep. He is my happily ever after. TBPM: What is your favorite thing to do in Tampa Bay with Matt, Ella and Beau? MS: We LOVE Indian Rocks Beach and the JCC. Anywhere on the water is an easy yes for us.

With every generation, we get better at protecting our environment. Reclamation ecologists like Ashlee work to return mined lands to productive use as wildlife habitats, public parks and more—so future generations can enjoy these lands for years to come.

Looking for A GREAT DATE NIGHT? Get Inspired at

TampaBayDateNightGuide.com

Your source for fun places to try and new activities to make your date night inspired!

NOVEMBER 2023 TampaBayParenting.com 35

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Kids to Know: Dev Shah spellsage.com

by Julie Tingley, founder of @weemacree

Two hundred and twenty-eight competitors. Six years of preparation. Eight hours of mental and physical training each day. Four stages of the competition. Zero second chances. So how did local teen, Dev Shah, really win the 2023 Scripps National Spelling Bee?

TBPM: Congratulations! How does it feel to be the champion? DS: It feels surreal. I remember watching videos of people winning, and just knowing I have my own video is so surreal. TBPM: What was it like being on that stage that final night? DS: It was the hardest thing I had to do ever, and I think it'll be the most nerve-wracking experience forever. The thing that made it better was sitting next to the other finalists, and just talking to them. It calmed me down. While spelling the word "rommack," I could hear my heart thumping. I had no clue how to spell "rommack." I just guessed it. I literally thought I was dreaming after I spelled it correctly. TBPM: The competition had 11 million participants worldwide. What was your preparation strategy to stand out among such a large pool of spellers? DS: Being myself. The spelling bee is one of the largest educational programs in the country and even the world. There are competitors from Ghana and Germany. The key to being successful in anything is to be yourself. But to be honest, the spelling bee is different from other competitions. It's not like I was judged based on someone else's performance. I was judged based on if I could spell a random word from the dictionary. It wasn't about me vs. everyone else. It was me vs. the dictionary. At the end of the day, someone else getting a word correct doesn't affect you. That's a major misconception about the spelling bee. TBPM: How did you manage your nerves and stay focused during the competition? DS: My Mom was a huge factor for that. She constantly made jokes even though she was nervous as well. I had to distract myself the

entire time as well. I physically couldn't study because it'd just throw me into a spiral of selfdoubt. I'd walk around the resort and talk to friends. I also carried my favorite stuffed animal, Becky. I carry her around because she makes me feel less nervous. I take her with me to high school every day. TBPM: Can you tell us about your approach to tackling unfamiliar words? DS: The only unfamiliar word was rommack, and it isn't a coincidence. If you notice the words I got before, like "schistorrhachis" or "poliorcetics," you'd notice that they are Greek or they at least have some origin. "Rommack" has an unknown origin, and I suck at those. Sometimes, you just have to guess. The audience thinks that we know the words, but the spelling bee is designed so we don't know the words. They're supposed to be words we don't know. The real preparation is training our sprachgefuhl and intuition. That takes practice just like anything else. Schistorrhachis a literal medical term about a congenital spinal defect. The spelling bee doesn't expect that the speller knows complex anatomical defects. The judges want you to piece it out root by root. They literally have a judge specifically for roots. That should say a lot. It's so annoying when people think that the spelling bee is just memorization. It's so much more. TBPM: You have won various prizes, including book money for your school and awards from Merriam-Webster and Encyclopedia Britannica. How do you plan to use these prizes? DS: I plan to use most of the money for my college fund. I'm also planning on running my own spelling bee, and I'll use some of it to help fund it. I also got a cool replica of the original encyclopedia Britannica. I'll keep that in my library and build a collection.

Courtesy of Scripps National Spelling Bee

He was focused and ready. But even more than that, he went into the competition to enjoy every part of the experience. And on June 1 in National Harbor, Maryland, after Shah correctly spelled “psammophile,” he took home the coveted trophy, earned a $50,000 cash prize, and became the first title holder in Florida since 1999.

TBPM: What's next for you after this remarkable achievement? DS: I'm currently in Palm Harbor University High School. I want to run my own spelling bee, and I currently run my own spelling preparation blog. I write for some magazines like the Teen Magazine and my own local magazine, "The Stroll Bayou Club." I'm part of my school's orchestra and medical club. TBPM: Describe the support and encouragement you received from your family, friends and teachers throughout your journey to becoming the Scripps National Spelling Bee champion? DS: I owe a lot of my success to one teacher, Ms. Micalizzi. In order to do the national spelling bee, the school has to join first. I seriously considered switching schools because no one wanted to do the spelling bee. Ms. Micalizzi was the only one who responded. She was there every step of the process. She watched my regional bee even though she had her own obligations and busy life. Not everyone has a Ms. Micalizzi in their school. It discomforts me knowing that the next national spelling champion probably doesn't have a school sponsor. The day we came back, just seeing everyone at the airport, was much more valuable than all the other interviews. I'm so grateful to some other teachers like Ms. Tave, Ms. Shank and Ms. Choi. Teachers don't get enough recognition for what they do and I want to make sure they do. I would not be here if it weren't for my teachers and their support. TBPM: What is your favorite thing to do in Tampa Bay with your family? DS: Busch Gardens.

NOVEMBER 2023 TampaBayParenting.com 37

As a parent,

you hold the key to your child's potential.

Every word, every book, every interaction contributes to their blossoming brain. The Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County encourages and supports you in this crucial role, ensuring your child's development is nurtured from the very beginning.

Watch

Violet and Theo

www.elchc.org/violetandtheo

elchc.org

STEM at the Library by Heidi Colom

When searching for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) resources, your local Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library is the best place to start.

Books

Realia

Are you searching for books about dinosaurs? How about outer space? Perhaps quirky inventions are more up your alley. Search the library stacks for books about the natural sciences and the applied sciences. Books about Mathematics and the Natural Sciences (Physical, Earth/Space, and Biological) can be found in the 500s; books about engineering and technology in the 600s; and books about domestic animals in the 636s. If you like computers, head to the 070s. In addition to physical books, the library offers e-books about STEM that you can access through Libby and Hoopla, apps available through the library’s website. These apps can be downloaded onto your smartphone or tablet, and the content can also be accessed via desktop and laptop computers.

Realia are physical objects used for instructional purposes. Do you want a telescope or microscope? Perhaps a model skeleton or flower? Or you may be searching for flashcards to make learning math facts fun. You can check out realia at the John F. Germany, Seffner-Mango and Temple Terrace libraries. You do need to check out and return the realia in person. Realia can be searched via our catalog, though they cannot be put on hold.

DVDs and Streaming Video Your child may be more of an audiovisual learner. Remember Bill Nye, the Science Guy? We have his DVDs in our collection and many other videos about science. If you prefer to stream, the library provides access to Hoopla and Kanopy, both of which contain plenty of educational videos. All you need is your library card to access them.

Launchpads Interactive games can be a lot of fun, not to mention a fantastic way for children to learn new things. Our library provides Launchpad tablets that come with interactive activities. They do not connect to the internet; everything is selfcontained. We carry Launchpad tablets with content in many subjects, including all dimensions of STEM. Launchpads are available at four different age levels, too.

Databases Are you searching for STEM resources you can access from anywhere at any time? Our library provides databases with information about STEM such as Science Online, World Book Encyclopedia, and Gale In Context: Middle School. You can also obtain help for math and science homework questions through Tutor.com. You can also prepare for college admissions exams through the Learning Express Library. Finally, LinkedIn Learning and Universal Class provide online classes in many STEM disciplines.

Programs Our library conducts many programs about STEM, some presented by staff, some featuring special guests. We have featured special presentations about the Webb Telescope in the past, for example. While many programs are online, we've also returned to live performances. Summer programming, such as Wonders of Nature, features some STEM performers. These are many of the fantastic STEM resources the TampaHillsborough County Public Library offers to the public. Take advantage of them soon!

Heidi Colom is a Librarian with the TampaHillsborough County Public Library. She obtained her Master of Arts in Library and Information Science from the University of South Florida and her Specialist Degree in Library and Information Studies from Florida State University.

NOVEMBER 2023 TampaBayParenting.com 39

Single Gender School Success Franklin’s boys and Ferrell’s girls explain why their all-boy and all-girl environments elevate their learning by Laura Cross

It’s only November, but if you ask an eighth-grade student at Franklin Boys Preparatory Cambridge Academy where they plan to attend high school, chances are you’re going to get an answer, and a reason why they want to attend that school. “I’m going to Jefferson next year. They have a law program and I’m trying to go into law.” “I want to be a veterinarian and Tampa Bay Tech has a great vet program!” “I want to go to Middleton for engineering!” Franklin is a magnet school in Hillsborough County, and it’s also the only all-boys school in the district. It became an all-boys school in 2011, the same year John Haley became principal. “I brought my own sons to this school, and I live in Plant City,” Haley says. “I pass a lot of good schools on my way in, but I felt this was the best school because it caters to the strengths of boys and their academic and social needs.” Franklin, and its sister school Ferrell Girls Preparatory Academy, operate under the belief that boys and girls learn better when they are separate, especially in middle school. That’s a belief Haley supports. “This is where the maturity, the academic progression, the intellectual progression of boys and girls are at the greatest divide. Boys are, in middle school, years behind girls. And their academic progression is just different.” At Franklin, the teachers create lessons that will engage the boys and play to their strengths. There’s a lot of competitiveness, noise, activity and movement. According to Haley, the boys thrive with competition. He says everything they do has some sort of competitive edge to it. The boys compete in houses, they compete in classrooms and even in small groups. He believes it motivates and drives boys to accelerate at a higher level. Franklin also teaches students structure and core values. The boys at Franklin know how to shake hands, make good eye contact, be respectful and engage with adults in conversation. They are taught to be gentlemen.

Avi Patel is an eighth-grade student at Franklin. “From the beginning of the school year, you’re taught discipline and respect,” Avi says. “So, for example, if a teacher was carrying a heavy stack of books, you would immediately ask the teacher if they want help and then carry the books for him or her.” Joshua Hotaling is also in the eighth grade at Franklin. His family chose the school for its structure and to keep him away from “distractions.” “I like that there aren’t any fights here,” Joshua says. “Y’know, over girls and stuff.” Two miles down the road sits Ferrell Girls Preparatory Academy. Principal Cara Stone says there are countless benefits to girls attending a samesex school, especially during these tough middle school years when girls are really trying to figure out who they are. “This is a very empowering and supportive environment,” Stone says. “Sometimes in middle school you get lost. Students who are really trying to find themselves thrive here at Ferrell. It’s impossible to feel like you don’t fit in when you come here. We pride ourselves on welcoming everyone.” Stone says there are educational benefits to attending an all-girls school. She agrees with Principal Haley that boys and girls learn differently. She says girls tend to thrive with project-based learning and they process things verbally and through discussions. The teachers at Ferrell tend to cater their lessons more toward those needs. The girls at Ferrell say they love going to a school in a same-sex environment. Kaliyah Murdock is an eighth grader at Ferrell. She says not having the distraction of boys has made learning easier for her. But that’s not even the best part. “It’s very easy to make friends here,” Kaliyah says. “You can relate to things together. Being all girls, you don’t argue as much. There’s less drama. I also love the teachers. They really know how to talk to you.” Oh yeah, Kaliyah also knows exactly where she wants to go to high school, and why. “I’m applying to Tampa Bay Tech for its architecture or radiology program. I think that would be cool!”

The Choice and Magnet window opens Nov. 1 and closes Dec. 15, 2023. To learn more about our amazing Choice and Magnet Schools go to HillsboroughSchools.org/Magnet.

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M RE to EXPL RE The 2024-2025 School Choice and Magnet Application Window is Now Open!

Here in Hillsborough County Public Schools, we have 40+ Magnet Schools offering engaging lessons where students can explore areas that spark their interests while meeting the required core curriculum. Introducing Boys Preparatory Academy at Franklin Middle Magnet School and the Girls Preparatory Academy at Ferrell Middle Magnet School as part of our unique magnet options. These tuition-free, single-gender magnet schools are designed with a focused and tailored learning environment where students can thrive without the distractions that sometimes occur in co-ed settings. Benefit from a Cambridge International School curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, analysis, interpretation, writing, and collaboration while teaching the Florida Standards Opportunities to collaborate at co-ed events to encourage respectful interactions and strengthen social skills

APPLY NOW!

November 1 – December 15

1:1 Technology No cost, After School Enrichment Academies offered to allow students to explore and nurture their interests and talents

There’s More to Explore at HillsboroughSchools.org/Magnet

NOVEMBER 2023 TampaBayParenting.com 41

inspires your spirit

W H AT STA RT S W IT H WONDER ...

remarkable adventure

Imagine growing up learning that education is a , one that inspires you to forge your own path, challenges you to go far and deep, and encourages you to shine as part of an exceptional and diverse community. This is education as you always imagined it, and it thrives at Berkeley Preparatory School.

B E R K E L E Y P R E P. O R G

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Your Guide to:

Tampa Bay Area 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 813-909-7919; academyatthelakes.org

Enrollment: 500

Academy at the Lakes is a PreK3-12th grade independent school dedicated to the success of each individual at school, in the community, and in the world. We celebrate the love of learning and the joy in the journey.

Grades: PreK3-grade 12

Class-Size: 16 Tuition: $15,000-$27,600

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

Enrollment: 993

Founded in 1881, the Academy of the Holy Names is a private Catholic school for boys and girls in pre-kindergarten through 8th grade and a college preparatory high school for young women. Sponsored and guided by the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, the Academy is a faith community of exceptional love that empowers students to pursue their highest academic potential. The Academy is located on 19 acres fronting scenic Bayshore Boulevard, close to downtown Tampa.

Grades: PreK-grade 8 (Coed); grades 9-12 (All Girls)

Class-Size: Varies by division

Tuition: $15,000-$23,460

ALEGRIA MONTESSORI

3200 58th Ave S., St. Petersburg, 33712 | 727-866-1901 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.

Enrollment: 140 Class-Size: 15-25 Grades: age 2-grade 12 Tuition: Varies

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.

Enrollment: 403 Class-Size: 12 average Grades: age 1-grade 8 Tuition: $9,900-$11,740

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.

Grades: 6-12 Tuition: FREE

BERKELEY PREPARATORY SCHOOL

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

Enrollment: 1,420

Berkeley Preparatory School is a highly regarded coed independent day school in Tampa that serves students in Pre-K through grade 12. Berkeley provides a safe, nurturing environment featuring inspiring teaching, engaged parents and alumni, and outstanding resources, including incomparable facilities on a beautiful 86-acre campus.

Grades: PreK-grade 12

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Class-Size: Varies by grade Tuition: $20,760-$31,360

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

Enrollment: 82

The Building Construction Academy at Bowers/Whitley is a high school dedicated to providing students with workforce experience. The school has a smaller enrollment, allowing students to receive mentorship opportunities with industry professionals and explore careers in the building construction industry prior to graduation. Students will be able to take courses and gain experience in subject areas such as Plumbing, Building Construction (HVAC, Carpentry, Electricity), and Automotive.

Grades: 9-12 Tuition: FREE

CALVARY CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL

110 N. McMullen Booth Rd., Clearwater 33759 727-449-2247; cchs.us

Enrollment: 820

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 offers Honors, AP, and dual-credit courses. Extra-curricular activities include athletics, fine arts, SGA, clubs, and spiritual growth and leadership opportunities.

Class-Size: 22 average Grades: 9-12 Tuition: $16,500

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

Enrollment: 880

Cambridge Christian School is a college preparatory, nationally accredited, Blue Ribbon school serving students from one-year-old through 12th grade. Since 1964 CCS has been committed to serving Christ through excellence at every level. Our legacy spans generations of Lancers, and we will change the way you think about education.

Class-Size: 15-20 Grades: age 1-grade 12 Tuition: $12,000$20,000

CANTERBURY SCHOOL OF FLORIDA

Hough Campus (PK3-Grade 4): 1200 Snell Isle Blvd. NE, St. Petersburg, 33704 Knowlton Campus (Grades 5-12): 990 62nd Avenue NE, St. Petersburg, 33702 727-525-1419; canterburyflorida.org Founded in 1968, Canterbury School is a college preparatory, independent, PK3-Grade 12 day school on two St. Petersburg, Florida campuses. In the Episcopal tradition, Canterbury emphasizes academics, character education, community, and spirituality. We are dedicated to student success, providing unique learning opportunities through exploration, conversation, and connection.

Enrollment: 435 Class-Size: Varies by Grade Grades: PK3-grade 12 Tuition: $6,200-$23,500

CARROLLWOOD DAY SCHOOL 1515 W. Bearss Ave., Tampa 33613 813-920-2288; cdspatriots.org

Enrollment: 1,237

Carrollwood Day School, the only full International Baccalaureate (IB) institution serving toddlers through 12th grade in Tampa, is a premier educational institution dedicated to fostering academic excellence and global citizenship. We cultivate principled entrepreneurial thinkers for a global society by enriching the mind, strengthening the character, and inspiring the passions of our community.

Class-Size: 18-20 Grades: PreK grade 12 Tuition: $9,900-$11,740

CENTER ACADEMY

Campuses in Palm Habor, Pinellas Park, Lutz & Riverview 727 781-2986; centeracademy.com Founded in 1968 and fully 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, ASD and learning differences and accept many scholarships, including Step Up/FES Scholarships. Dual enrollment and summer programs are available.

Enrollment: 90 per campus Class-Size: 18 Grades: 4-12 Tuition: $13,680-$15,680

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

Grades: K-8

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.

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H A P P Y S T U D E N T S S E R I O U S E D U C AT I O N

ADMISSIONS OPEN HOUSE

T U E S D A Y, N O V E M B E R 7 8 : 3 0 A . M .

(813) 961-3087 • PreK3-8th Grade • www.corbettprep.com

Transportation Available

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PRESENTED BY CORBETT PREPARATORY SCHOOL OF IDS

THE STUDY OF PLAY by Courtney Cairns Pastor

practice making decisions in fun and healthy ways. Different types of play offer different benefits, wrote Peter Gray, a psychology research professor, in a 2017 article. Challenging physical games can increase fitness and improve coordination and also encourage risk-taking and build courage. Pretend play prompts children to think outside the box as they build fantasy worlds where they set the rules and see how different scenarios unfold. Games with other children help students with social skills, teamwork and cooperation. At Corbett Prep, playing is also an opportunity to study individuality and the value of creativity. PreK4 examines the central idea that people can learn and express themselves through creativity and play as part of the International Baccalaureate transdisciplinary theme “How We Express Ourselves.” During the unit, students see how playing and curiosity can inspire people’s creativity and help them develop ideas or solve problems. They talk about respecting classmates’

There’s serious play happening in Corbett Prep’s PreK4 class on “Not a Box” day. Piles of craft supplies—stickers, glue, ribbons, markers, colored paper—are scattered around the classroom suite as students transform cardboard boxes into cars, rockets, houses, tunnels and even a unicorn. Inspired by the book “Not a Box” by Antoinette Portis, students flex their creativity and curiosity to turn everyday boxes into whatever they want. They step into their boxes and blast off to space or speed around like race cars. They cut out windows, tunnel through

narrow openings and decorate with mosaics of construction paper. The activity is full of fun, but it’s building their brains, too. The prekindergartners are empowered to decide what they want to do with their boxes and how to accomplish it, and their unique interpretations reveal their perspectives and interests. Playtime boosts brain development, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. It gives children the chance to resolve conflicts, advocate for themselves and

46 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2023

creations, such as leaving a block structure up to admire instead of knocking it down. They also see that it’s OK if their friends follow another path or come to a different conclusion. The students discuss what it means to play, from building with Legos to reading books to spending time with friends or pets, and that the act of playing also means taking care of your toys, making safe choices and treating friends respectfully. They explore deeper questions as well. Can play help people? Is there always a winner in a game? Do kids in other countries play differently? Why do some people choose to paint and some people make up stories? And most importantly in the IB unit, the PreK4 students play. The teachers enjoy watching students’ ideas come to life, and they gain insights into how students think and the connections they make. For the students, learning through play is engaging, holding their attention and helping them better understand and retain what they learn.

CHRIST THE KING CATHOLIC

3809 W. Morrison Ave., Tampa 33629 813-876-8770; cks-school.org Christ the King Catholic School inspires each child to grow in the love of Christ, the joy of knowledge and the spirit of service. Our outstanding faculty, joyful campus, and enriching academics provide PreK4–8th grade students with a strong foundation to excel at the area's leading high schools and beyond.

Enrollment: 525 Class-Size: 24 average Grades: PreK4-grade 8 Tuition: $9,350-$11,000

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 Our goal at Community Montessori School is to provide a prepared environment that responds to the developmental needs of the age group and cultivates each child’s unique human potential by adhering to Montessori’s principles.

Enrollment: 135 Class-Size: 20 average Grades: 18 months – grade 9 Tuition: $8,250-$12,100

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

Founded 55 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 ready to contribute to the world in a meaningful way.

Enrollment: 570 Class-Size: Varies by grade level Grades: PreK3-grade 8 Tuition: $14,355-$19,209

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: 250 Class-Size: 15 average Grades: K-8 Tuition: $10,550+

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: 1,426 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.

enrollment: 530 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

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.

Enrollment: 360 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

NEW! Third Grade Accelerated Math Academy prepares students for high school Math courses. KEY

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ESSRIG MONTESSORI ACADEMY

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

Enrollment: 584

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.

Tuition: FREE

Grades: ages 3 years kindergarten

FERRELL GIRLS PREPARATORY ACADEMY (A CAMBRIDGE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL)

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

Enrollment: 434

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.

Tuition: FREE

Grades: 6-8

FRANKLIN BOYS PREPARATORY ACADEMY (A CAMBRIDGE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL)

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

Enrollment: 352

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.

Tuition: FREE

Grades: 6-8

GRECO MIDDLE MAGNET (IB CANDIDATE)

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

Enrollment: 664

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.

Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

HILLEL ACADEMY

2020 W. Fletcher Ave., Tampa 33612 813-963-2242; hillelacademytampa.com

Enrollment: 222

Hillel Academy, a Cambridge International School, cultivates a culture of kindness, empowering a diverse student body to unlock their full potential and embrace their unique identities through a robust academic curriculum, dynamic Jewish life, and learning experiences.

Class-Size: 18 Grades: age 1-grade 10 Tuition: $5,300-$20,450

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

Grades: K-8

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.

Tuition: FREE

HILLSBOROUGH VIRTUAL K-12

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

Enrollment: 624

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.

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Grades: K-12 Tuition: FREE

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2024-25 School Enrollment Opening Soon

DOWNTOWN TAMPA • Channelside Academy of Math & Science 1029 E. Twiggs St., Tampa | Grades K-8 WESTCHASE • Hillsborough Academy of Math & Science 9659 W. Waters Ave., Tampa | Grades K-8

Family of Tuition-Free Public Charter Schools

RIVERVIEW • Riverview Academy of Math & Science 9906 Symmes Rd., Riverview | Grades K-12 • Valrico Lake Advantage Academy 13306 Boyette Rd., Riverview | Grades K-5 • Bell Creek Academy 13221 Boyette Rd., Riverview | Grades 6-12

CharterSchoolAssociates.com/TBParenting

NOVEMBER 2023 TampaBayParenting.com 49

EAGLE

FOR A

DECADE Start your child’s exceptional 10-year experience with us, from Pre-K to Grade 8. Come see the St. John’s difference for yourself! Scan the QR code to learn more and request a tour.

EAGLE DECADE

stjohnseagles.org 813.849.4200 admissions@stjohnseagles.org

FOR A

Primary School

Lower School

Middle School

Conveniently located in Hyde Park

EAGLES SOAR | THE ST. JOHN’S EXPERIENCE

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HOLY TRINITY LUTHERAN

3712 W El Prado Blvd. 813-839-0665; htlstampa.org

Enrollment: 235

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.

Class-Size: 18 Average Grades: PreK-grade 6 Tuition: $2,450-$7,500

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: 510 Grades: K-5 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: 412 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: 274 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: 382 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

MANHATTAN PK-8

4210 W. Bay Villa Ave., Tampa 33611 Apply at https://bit.ly/ApplyHCPS2024 NEW! PreK through 8th grade Magnet School Opening in August 2024. This beautiful, state-of-the-art campus will be a full magnet school home to 1,620 students. Families can apply during the school choice application windows. The fall window opens November 1, 2023, and closes on December 15, 2023. You can apply at https://bit.ly/ApplyHCPS2024.

Grades: PreK-grade 8 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.

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Enrollment: 1,047 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

NOVEMBER 2023 TampaBayParenting.com 51

Teaching students to soar beyond the classroom.

Join us for a tour on Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. or by appointment.

Discover the Westlake difference!

westlakechristianschool.org 727.781.3808

EXCELLENCE IN ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT AND FAITH FORMATION

AT CANTERBURY WE GROW TOGETHER. Bringing a world of education to your children ages 3 through grade 12.

(727) 525-1419 Visit canterburyflorida.org/admission to learn more about the Canterbury Spirit. 52 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2023

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MEDICAL ACADEMY AT D.W. WATERS

2704 N. Highland Ave., Tampa 33602 813-233-2655; hillsboroughschools.org/dwwaters

Enrollment: 82

The Medical Academy at D.W. Waters is a high school dedicated to providing students with workforce experience. The school has a smaller enrollment, allowing students to receive mentorship opportunities with industry professionals and explore careers in the medical field prior to graduation. Students will be able to take courses and gain experience in subject areas such as Nursing, Allied Health (Radiology), Cardiology, Emergency Responding, and Biomedical Sciences.

Grades: 9-12 Tuition: FREE

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

Enrollment: 450

Mother Teresa of Calcutta Catholic School is a private elementary in Lutz, Florida. 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 Mother Teresa, we strive to develop a dedication of service to others and a devotion to the Catholic faith.

Class-Size: 25 Grades: K-8 Tuition: $7,805

MULLER ELEMENTARY MAGNET

(VISUAL, PERFORMING, COMMUNICATION ARTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES)

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

Enrollment: 437

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.

Tuition: FREE

Grades: K-5

ORANGE GROVE MIDDLE MAGNET

(VISUAL, PERFORMING AND COMMUNICATION ARTS)

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

Enrollment: 504

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.

Tuition: FREE

Grades: 6-8

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

Enrollment: 800

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.

Class-Size: 18-22 Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE

PROGRESS VILLAGE MIDDLE MAGNET

(VISUAL, PERFORMING AND COMMUNICATION ARTS)

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

Enrollment: 758

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.

Tuition: FREE

Grades: 6-8

RAMPELLO K-8 MAGNET (CULTURAL ARTS AND HUMANITIES ) 802 E. Washington St., Tampa 33602 813-233-2333; hillsboroughschools.org/rampello

Enrollment: 807

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.

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PRESENTED BY ACADEMY AT THE LAKES

WE MUST TEACH HISTORY by Mark Heller, Head of School, Academy at the Lakes

Today’s public square includes much debate about the teaching of history in school. As both a school leader and a history teacher, I offer this: We must teach history in order to create active, engaged citizens. In doing so, we can also promote patriotism.

HISTORY

We teach history because history helps us understand ourselves and our world. Our past is always part of our present. Our history has shaped every element of today—who we are, what we believe, how our society and government and economy work. History often includes exploration of the triumphs of our spirit and our great achievements as well as exploration of the unpleasant, the unenlightened, and the shameful moments of our past. We teach history to help us understand, often to emulate and always to be inspired to do better and to be better. As students grow and mature, we should not shy away from discussing slavery and race as deeply important issues in our history—because they are. In exploring slavery and race, we should not teach that all white people are evil or that our children are responsible for having oppressed other people. Rather, we should work to help our students understand that injustice has been part of our history, that it persists in ways that are both overt and subtle, and that our democratic system has brought progress and change from earlier days. We should work to help our students know that they, as citizens and voters, will have the opportunity and the obligation to continue to shape our nation’s evolving narrative. This is one of the key ways to promote patriotism.

PATRIOTISM

Schools should promote patriotism -- a patriotism that understands and is inspired by our system and our history toward the ends of both pride and participation. I believe that the United States of America is a truly exceptional nation because of our commitment to common ideas (the rule of law, freedom of speech and of the press, freedom of religion, equality under law, free enterprise and the right to vote, to name just a few). In these challenging times, I would add to the list the precious freedom to read and the freedom to learn. I am deeply proud that, in our country, citizenship and “Americanness” are not conferred by common race or religion or ethnic heritage, but by common commitment to these ideas. We are special because of that, and we have served as a beacon of goodness and principle to the rest of the world because of it. I want our schools to help all our students learn to love our country and our system through exploring both those times when we rose to meet the moment and those times in which we did not. The study of history is the best way to answer today’s urgent call to citizenship. Progress may not be linear, but the arc of history does bend toward justice. School should work to make it so. NOVEMBER 2023 TampaBayParenting.com 55

PRESENTED BY SHORECREST PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Financial Literacy: Preparation for Life by Mary Ellen Collins

Imagine a group of creative sixth graders offering viable, data-driven solutions on how to increase sales at the new School Store. It’s happening at Shorecrest Preparatory School, thanks to a new focus on financial literacy. Shorecrest believes that a challenging, college-preparatory curriculum must extend beyond academics to include a solid grounding in real-world applications. The newly launched Ross Roeder Institute for Financial Literacy, Entrepreneurship and Economics (RRI) is just one example of how the school provides that preparation. “Already, the Entrepreneurial Design Institute in the Middle School and the entrepreneurship aspect of the capstone STEAM certificate in the Upper School demonstrate that there is robust interest in these topics among our students,” says Nancy Spencer, Shorecrest Head of School. Earl Walton, Director of the RRI, is dedicated to ensuring that students of all ages have a chance to develop their understanding and skills in these areas. “Our goal is to weave the concepts of financial literacy throughout the school,” Walton says. “We want our kids to actively participate in their financial life and financial success. That’s our North Star.” Initial efforts include connecting the financial literacy conversation with existing programs in the Middle and Upper Schools, with future plans including the creation of programs for Lower and Experiential School Students. Walton is also very excited about the prospect of connecting older students with local mentors. “There’s no better way to learn than experience,” he says. “It’s not just what’s happening in the classroom. It’s about connecting Shorecrest to the bigger St. Petersburg business community.”

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The current initiative involving the sixth graders offers them the chance to take what they’ve learned in their science and technology classes and put it to work on behalf of the new Shorecrest School Store. "Through in-class exercises, they have learned how to format their data in Excel; calculate the mean, median, mode and range using a formula; and create graphs to present their findings," says Chris Scoby, Middle School Curriculum Dean and Technology Coordinator. The students recently met with Cayce Cirino, the Shorecrest School Store manager, and Walton to review the store’s sales data, and it didn’t take long for them to start coming up with thoughtful and creative suggestions. Ideas included promoting new products on billboards and at School events; polling students about their favorite snacks and using the data to inform inventory decisions; and moving high-value items to the most highly trafficked areas. Following that informal meeting, students can participate in a session to pitch their recommendations to a committee of experts, with the possibility of seeing their ideas incorporated into the store. One hallmark of a Shorecrest education is learning how to make wise choices – a skill that students at all grade levels acquire in programs and activities across the campus. The Ross Roeder Institute for Financial Literacy, Entrepreneurship and Economics is an important addition to this facet of the learning experience. It will educate and empower students to make informed decisions about their financial lives and futures – a critical way to set them up for success.

NOVEMBER 2023 TampaBayParenting.com 57

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 33626 | 813-551-2144 victorychartertampa.org victorychartertampa612.org

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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: 527 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, and Cognia accreditation.

Grades: K-11 Tuition: FREE

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!

Enrollment: 1,081 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: 880 Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE

SHORE ELEMENTARY MAGNET

(VISUAL, PERFORMING AND COMMUNICATION ARTS)

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

Enrollment: 338

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!

Tuition: FREE

Grades: K-5

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: 1,056 Class-Size: 16 Grades: PreK3-grade 12 Tuition: $20,020-$31,670

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. KEY

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Enrollment: 184 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: FREE

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SLIGH MIDDLE MAGNET

(HUMAN HEALTH AND PERFORMANCE, MEDICAL ADMINISTRATION AND SCIENCES)

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

Enrollment: 603

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.

Tuition: FREE

Grades: 6-8

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

Enrollment: 168

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.

ST. CECELIA INTERPAROCHIAL CATHOLIC SCHOOL 1350 Court St., Clearwater, 33756

Grades: 9-12 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 467

727 461-1207, www.st-cecelia.org

St. Cecelia Interparochial Catholic School (SCS) is dedicated to providing an exceptional education rooted in faith, Catholic values and academic excellence. This private school offers the only PK3 to 8th grade International Baccalaureate Programme in Pinellas County and has been recognized twice as a National Blue Ribbon School. This year marks the 75th anniversary of SCS.

Class-Size: 23 Grades: PreK3-grade 8 Tuition: $8,240-$10,712

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: 590 Class-Size: 20 Grades: PreK4-grade 8 Tuition: $15,970-$16,550

ST. LAWRENCE CATHOLIC SCHOOL

5223 N. Himes Ave., Tampa 33614 813-879-5090; stlawrencecatholicschool.org

Enrollment: 526

St. Lawrence Catholic School community is dedicated to the creation of a Christ-centered environment in the Roman Catholic tradition, which allows students to learn to serve God and others, to develop their unique talents and skills, to strive for academic excellence, and to become life-long learners.

ST. PETER CLAVER CATHOLIC SCHOOL 1401 N. Governor St., Tampa 33602

Class-Size: 25 Grades: PreK3-grade 8 Tuition: $8,733-$11,045

Enrollment: 100

813-224-0865; stpeterclavercatholicschool.org St. Peter Claver Catholic School, Tampa’s downtown private Catholic school serving students age 3 through 8th grade, provides its students with a rigorous curriculum that is a balance of academics, religion, and enrichment subjects—such as music, art, physical education and STREAM. We take pride in preserving the legacy of our beautiful school and community and our students continue this work as they graduate and share their gifts with the world.

Class-Size: 10:1 Grades: PreK3-grade 8 Tuition: $8,300-$8,500

STEWART MIDDLE MAGNET (NASA EXPLORER SCHOOL) 1125 Spruce St., Tampa 33607 813-276-5691; hillsboroughschools.org/stewart

Enrollment: 815

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!

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Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

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YOUR CHILD HAS

WORLDCHANGING POTENTIAL

tampaprep.org

APPLY TODAY!

K2-12 SCHOLARS LEADERS FAITH WARRIORS

SHAPING YOUNG PEOPLE IN CHRIST TO MAKE AN IMPACT IN THE WORLD.

ACCREDITED K2-12TH GRADE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL IN SOUTH TAMPA.

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

Located in the heart of Tampa, along the Hillsborough River, Tampa Catholic High School is dedicated to providing our students academic excellence in a Catholic, Christ-centered environment. We have devoted over 60 years to providing an experience marked by educational excellence, compassionate guidance, and a strong sense of community.

Enrollment: 750 Class-Size: 22 average Grades: 9-12 Tuition: $13,600-$16,900

TAMPA HEIGHTS ELEMENTARY MAGNET (GLOBAL LEADERSHIP ACADEMY)

305 E. Columbus Dr., Tampa 33602 813-276-5405; hillsboroughschools.org/tampaheights

Enrollment: 292

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.

Tuition: FREE

Grades: K-5

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

As the only private, independent school in Tampa Bay serving grades 6-12, Tampa Prep offers learning that is innovative, forward thinking & tailored to the needs of our students. We foster creativity and excellence on our downtown campus, within walking distance to world-class museums, performing arts centers, parks & more, extending our students’ learning beyond the classroom.

Enrollment: 710 Class-Size: 18:1 Grades: 6-12 Tuition: $27,595$28,595

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.

Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

VICTORY CHARTER SCHOOL TAMPA K-12

13901 Sheldon Road, Tampa 33626 813-551-2144; victorychartertampa.org | victorychartertampa612.org VCS Tampa K-12 is proud to be an IB Candidate School! 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, 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.

Enrollment: 411 Class-Size: Varies by grade Grades: K-9 and expanding Tuition: FREE

THE WALDORF SCHOOL OF TAMPA BAY 1857 Curlew Road, Palm Harbor 34683 727-786-8311; waldorftampabay.org

The Waldorf School of Tampa Bay is a 24-year old early childhood and elementary school with a 100+ year old European curriculum rooted in child development. Our preschool and kindergarten is play-based with an emphasis on developing the physical body, and our grades classes teach art, music, movement and practical skills concurrently with robust academics. All our children spend between 2 to 6 hours outdoors, every day.

Enrollment: 150 Class-Size: 15 Grades: PreK-grade 8 Tuition: $10,000-$15,000

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: 1,011 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

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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 525 students in kindergarten through eighth grade from Northern Pinellas County, Southern Pasco County, Trinity, Westchase and surrounding communities.

Enrollment: 525 Class-Size: 1:18 Grades: K-8

WESTMINSTER ACADEMY

804 N. Lincoln Ave., Tampa 33609 813-279-5225; westminstertampa.org At Westminster Academy, we provide a Christ-centered, academically excellent classical education rooted in the Great Books and study of language. We develop young scholars who are deeply rooted in the fundamentals of knowledge passed down over generations and who are self-motivated, intellectually curious, and compassionate toward their fellow man.

Enrollment: 62 Class-Size: 7:1 Grades: PreK-grade 5 Tuition: $7,250-$9,400

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: 855 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

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PRESENTED BY JOHNS HOPKINS ALL CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL

Knight’s Story: Sturge-Weber Syndrome by Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital

Three-year-old Knight is a joyful ball of energy as he runs from the family’s living room to dining room to kitchen. He loves this little game, and for most 3-yearolds, this wouldn’t be an extraordinary feat. But, for this child, it is remarkable. Knight was born with Sturge-Weber Syndrome, a genetic mutation that causes abnormal growth of blood vessels in the skin, eyes and brain. “It’s a very infrequent disease, affecting one in 20,000–50,000 people,” says Tom Geller, M.D., a pediatric neurologist and co-director of the Neurocutaneous Disorders Clinic at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, Florida. Sturge-Weber Syndrome may be characterized by a purple birthmark on the skin. Glaucoma is common with this syndrome, as are seizures. If left untreated, the condition can lead to severe brain damage and can be life-threatening. For a mother giving birth to her first and only child, it was unfathomable.

REALITY CHECK

Victoria’s healthy pregnancy offered no clues as to her baby’s condition. The day after Knight was born, when she was told that her baby boy likely had Sturge-Weber Syndrome, she was devastated. But she began researching and learning everything she could about how to help her son. “I’m the mom who wants to know everything,” Victoria says. Knight was being treated for glaucoma, and he would also require laser procedures to treat the port-wine stain that covered much of his body. At 3 months old, a frightening development— Knight began to have epileptic seizures. At the age of 10 months, a severe seizure caused him to stop breathing. The baby was taken by the LifeLine Critical Care Transport team to Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital for care. “Johns Hopkins All Children’s saved his life, honestly,” Victoria says.

66 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2023

MRI scans of Knight’s brain clearly showed what was causing his increasingly severe seizures. A carpet of abnormal blood vessels was compromising the left side of his brain, causing it to atrophy and seize. How could doctors help control the seizures and protect the healthy portion of Knight’s brain?

BOLD SOLUTION

Soon after Knight’s first birthday, neurosurgeons Luis Rodriguez, M.D., George Jallo, M.D., and the neurosurgical team performed an anatomical hemispherectomy on Knight—a successful six-hour operation in which surgeons methodically sectioned and removed the entire left hemisphere of his brain. “Especially in very young children, the brain has remarkable plasticity,” Rodriguez says. “The normal part of the brain takes over, rewires, makes connections and gets things working.”

Without the surgery, the abnormal portion of the brain would have eventually damaged the healthy, functioning portion—leading to severe devastation neurologically. But Knight’s story will be different.

NO LIMITATIONS

Today, at nearly 4-years-old, Knight’s condition continues to keep the family calendar full. There are doctors to see, therapies to strengthen his muscles, and medical procedures to help him have the fullest and richest life possible. He is learning new words and delighting in his favorite toys. There is so much to discover in the world. And this lucky little boy is just getting started. “I see no limitations for Knight,” Victoria says. “He’s happy, he’s healthy and he’s loved.”

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PRESENTED BY BAYCARE

The Most Important Conversations

BayCare Kids introduces a game-changing resource to battle mental health disorders by Anu Varma Panchal

Here’s a sobering statistic: During the past three years since the pandemic, the number of children visiting the Emergency Room at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital for mental health disorders has increased by 300 percent. That’s a three-fold increase. Here’s another number: When it comes to available mental health resources, Florida (one of the most populous states) ranks a dismal 48 out of 51 (including the District of Columbia). However, a partnership between BayCare Kids and a dynamic, 5-year-old national organization with powerful resources seeks to address the issue by promoting wellness and early intervention. The On Our Sleeves Movement for Children’s Mental Health provides free educational tools and resources that parents and caregivers can use to start conversations with their children, who, after all, don’t wear their thoughts on their sleeves. “We are excited about bringing this resource to west central Florida,” says Dr. Christina Canody, pediatrician and medical director of BayCare’s Pediatric Service Line. “We are seeing a time when mental health disorders are at an all-time high in our pediatric population. Mental health should be part of an everyday communication, not just when it is a problem.” The reasons for the increase are varied, Dr. Canody says. The news can create a perception of a dangerous, unstable world, with conflict, climate change and politics always front and center. The pandemic created unique challenges also, particularly in terms of the effects of social isolation. Preschool and early school-age children, for example, still struggle with responding to emotions and feedback from teachers and other students because they have become accustomed to technological interaction. Older children today are exhausted by an increasingly high-pressure competitive world of test scores, college prestige and competition.

Tips for Conversation Starters:

• Ask open ended questions, like “What was the hardest part of your day?” • Choose a daily time for regular conversation, like an evening walk after dinner. • Share about your day to model healthy habits, while keeping the details age-appropriate.

Tips to Keep the Conversation Going:

• Make sure your body language does not reveal stress. Nod and breathe. • Don’t interrupt with a barrage of questions; pause and let them guide the flow. • Thank them for sharing and validate their emotions with statements like “That must have been difficult to share with me. I’m so grateful that you did.”

Tips for After a Conversation

• Let them try and problem solve before you jump in with advice. • Frame your questions with “what” rather than “why.” Say “What made you do something,” rather than “Why did you do that?” • Ask them if they want to hear your suggestions before telling them what you plan to do.

#onoursleeves

Because half of all mental health disorder symptoms start by the age 14, the middle school and early high school years are a crucial time to catch signs and start treatment early before things spin into crisis mode. However, although more parents are open to seeking help from professionals, many don’t know exactly how to communicate with their children about these matters or even evaluate whether help is needed. That’s where the BayCare Kids On Your Sleeves initiative can come in. The first step is to break the stigma of these conversations, says Dr. Canody. The program’s curated resources include conversation starters about current events, social media and bullying, to name a few. You can learn how to start and keep a conversation

going, how to boost confidence, and how to foster a sense of belonging. The resources are refreshed every six to eight weeks so that there will always be something new for you to use. For those families ready to take the next step, the pediatrician’s office is the best place to begin. Dr. Canody is excited about bringing this easy-to-use national resource to our area and hopes to spread its use far and wide. As well as the BayCare Kids website and BayCare facilities, including pediatrician offices and the mobile clinics, On Our Sleeves will be shared through monthly articles with the Hillsborough County School District also. “We want it to be available to anybody and everybody,” she says.

Visit BayCareKidsOnOurSleeves.org to: • Sign up for a monthly e-newsletter that features actionable, timely mental health information • Download tips and tools to help facilitate conversations with kids and teens • Learn how to recognize and respond to children in or at risk of crisis NOVEMBER 2023 TampaBayParenting.com 69

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