16 minute read
The Montessori Academy at Essrig
The Montessori Academy at Essrig Elementary
The first thing you notice when you walk into one of the Montessori classrooms at Essrig Elementary is how calm and quiet it is.
Plenty of students roam around, playing and learning, but they’re doing it in a harmonious and respectful manner.
The Montessori Academy at Essrig is a new magnet program for Hillsborough County Public Schools. The Montessori method of education seeks to develop natural interests and activities rather than use formal teaching methods. It emphasizes independence and believes children, especially young children, are capable of much more.
Kimberlee Fowler is the Montessori Coordinator at Essrig. She jumped at the opportunity to lead this academy. “This is a program that allows the student to be the highlight and the focus of the day,” she said. “The teacher is the observer and is there to support the child in whatever work they have chosen.”
The students begin their morning with a three-hour work period. During this period, they select work independently while the teacher observes, giving support if necessary. Fowler says students can dive deeper into their work and gain a more thorough understanding of the lesson because there is no time constraint.
Montessori also teaches students respect, grace and how to impact the world in a positive way. Manners and courtesy play a big part in the day.
For example, to get someone’s attention, there’s no “excuse me,” interruptions or screaming across the room for a teacher. The student will go up to the teacher or a classmate and gently put their hand on their shoulder. Then they wait patiently for acknowledgement.
“This is a way of interrupting with grace and courtesy,” Fowler says. “Think of the life skills this teaches. You’re not getting attention right away. It teaches children patience and respect.”
And then there’s the white rose sitting in a vase, on a small table in a corner of the room. This isn’t just any rose. This is the Peace Rose. It teaches children to resolve their conflict in a calm manner, and often without an adult. Fowler remembers when two little boys got into a disagreement and voices were starting to raise. Instead of it escalating, one of the boys invited the other to the Peace Rose. Whoever holds the rose is allowed to speak. The boys came to an understanding, worked it out and hugged.
“Grace and courtesy are major building blocks in Montessori Education,” Fowler explains. “You want to provide an environment where students feel safe and where the teacher models a calm environment. That feeling of calm transfers over to learning at another level.”
Right now, Essrig’s Montessori Program only takes 3-, 4- and 5-year-olds. Next year, the program will expand to first grade, and the kindergarten students will move up, allowing another group of 3-year-olds to be admitted into the program. Parents must fill out a magnet program application to be accepted into the school.
Fowler gives credit to her outstanding teachers at Essrig for making the Montessori Academy such a success in such a short period of time. She says the teachers have embraced the philosophy and the students are thriving.
“The Montessori way of thinking is that children can do more. Young children are capable beyond our imaginations. We need to give them the opportunities to grow in that way.”
by Laura Cross, Hillsborough County Public Schools
Learn more about the Montessori Academy at Essrig. The district’s magnet and choice window is open from Oct. 27 to Dec. 16. hillsboroughschools.org/magnet
PEPIN ACADEMIES | pepinacademies.com 3916 E. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa 33610; 813-236-1755 9304 Camden Field Parkway, Riverview 33578; 813-533-2999 7710 Osteen Road, New Port Richey 34653; 727-233-2961
Pepin Academies are non-profit, tuition-free, independent public charter schools serving students with learning and learning-related disabilities. Qualified as Exceptional Student Education (ESE) Center schools, we provide a diversified curriculum driven by the student’s needs in a positive educational environment, as well as a transitional job training program for post-high school students who choose to defer receipt of their diploma.
PINELLAS PREPARATORY ACADEMY 2300 S. Belcher Road, Largo 33771 727-536-3600; pinellasprep.org
Pinellas Preparatory Academy is a high performing, "A" rated, tuition free K-8 public charter school. Besides our strong academics, you will find a culture of strong character and community. The school focuses on developing the talents of each student, while emphasizing high academic standards.
PROGRESS VILLAGE MIDDLE MAGNET
(VISUAL, PERFORMING AND COMMUNICATION ARTS)
8113 Zinnia Drive, Tampa 33619 813-671-5110; hillsboroughschools.org/progressvillage
We are proud to offer the largest dance and culinary arts programs in Hillsborough County. We're routinely recognized as a Magnet School of America national award winner and show our craft to organizations and events around the district. Students can try exciting electives such as Costume and Fashion Design, orchestra, journalism and more. The spotlight shines on students at Progress Village.
RAMPELLO K-8 MAGNET (CULTURAL ARTS AND HUMANITIES )
802 E. Washington St., Tampa 33602 813-233-2333; hillsboroughschools.org/rampello
Join us for experiential learning with walking field trips through downtown Tampa, and a differentiated instruction focus to meet the needs of all learners. We have strong community partnerships and school-wide AVID instructional strategies. Middle school electives include: Band/Jazz/Orchestra/Steel Drums, Art 2-D and 3-D, Spanish and Creative Writing.
RIVERHILLS ELEMENTARY MAGNET (IB)
405 Riverhills Drive, Temple Terrace 33617 813-987-6911; hillsboroughschools.org/riverhills
Located on the Hillsborough River, with all the science potential and experiment potential that implies, we prepare students to meet the challenges of world citizenship with confidence, imagination and integrity. Students can study global cultures and develop an open and curious mind. Students engage in music and arts programs, Odyssey of the Mind, Robotics Team, Inquiry-based learning centers, student action/service learning, world languages and more.
RIVERVIEW ACADEMY OF MATH & SCIENCE 9906 Symmes Road, Riverview 33578 813-412-6111; riverviewacademy.com
The tuition-free, public charter school proudly serves students from kindergarten through middle school with a well-rounded college preparatory education. The rigorous curriculum includes a special concentration on math and science, a technology-rich atmosphere, and a focus on character development. Offerings include the Cambridge program for Advanced Studies, Edvantage before and after school program, Tampa Bay’s Grasses in Classes Program and Cognia accreditation.
RODGERS MIDDLE MAGNET (CAMBRIDGE CANDIDATE)
11910 Tucker Road, Riverview 33569 813-671-5288; hillsboroughschools.org/rodgers
Rodgers, an authorized Cambridge International Magnet School, offers learning guided by the rigorous, world renowned Cambridge Pathways philosophy. Located in Riverview's Bell Creek Nature Preserve, we embrace and empower the whole student. Several National Board-Certified Teachers highlight our exceptional team of educators. Ask us about our Cambridge Honors Institute if you choose to apply! Enrollment: 1,200+ students between three campuses Class-Size: 13:2 Grades: 3-12 and a Transition Program for ages 18-22 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 800 Class-Size: K-3 18, 4-8 22 Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 824 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 766 Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 507 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE
Grades: K-9 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 1,155 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE
ROLAND PARK K-8 MAGNET (IB)
1510 N. Manhattan Ave., Tampa 33607 813-872-5212; hillsboroughschools.org/rolandpark
We inspire young inquiring minds to become compassionate, lifelong learners and internationally-minded people with respect for various cultures and a desire to serve others. Students can experience inquiry-based learning centers, transdisciplinary units of study, an outdoor classroom with an international garden, a strings program and world languages. Enrollment: 806 Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE
SAFETY HARBOR MONTESSORI ACADEMY 2669 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater 34653 727-724-1767; safetyharbormontessori.com
Safety Harbor Montessori Academy is a learning community whose primary goal is to help students reach their full potential in all aspects of their development, in a loving, respectful atmosphere. We have programs for children ages 2 through 14, providing continuity from early childhood to adolescence. Enrollment: 170 Class-Size: 12-24 Grades: Ages 2-grade 8 Tuition: $10,100-$16,950
SEFFNER CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 11605 E. U.S. HWY 92, Seffner 33584 813-626-0001; scacrusaders.com
Seffner Christian Academy is a distinctly Christian learning community for students in preschool - 12th grade. We are committed to developing well-rounded, Gospel-driven students who are prepared for life. Please contact our Admissions department to schedule a time for you to experience the SCA difference! Enrollment: 771 Class-Size: average 22 Grades: PreK2-12 Tuition: $9,500-$12,000
SHORE ELEMENTARY MAGNET
(VISUAL, PERFORMING AND COMMUNICATION ARTS)
1908 2nd Ave., Tampa 33605 813-276-5712; hillsboroughschools.org/shore
We are an award-winning Magnet School of the Arts located in historic Ybor City. Students learn through arts and science integration and can take part in the Annual Arts Festival and school musical. Students expand their horizons through visual art, dance, strings, music, drama, STEAM Engineering and robotics programs. Our partnership with the Straz Performing Arts Center brings Broadway to our students--something you will find at no other school!
SHORECREST PREPARATORY SCHOOL 5101 1st St. NE., St. Petersburg 33703 727-522-2111; shorecrest.org
Founded in 1923, Shorecrest is a coed, nonsectarian, PK3-12 independent school in St. Petersburg, FL. In a safe, student-centered environment, Shorecrest educates a diverse community of students to become lifelong learners in the pursuit of personal and academic excellence, physical well-being, creative achievement and the development of a commitment to social responsibility. Enrollment: 373 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 1,056 Class-Size: 16 Grades: PreK3-12 Tuition: $13,430-$29,600
SIMMONS CAREER ACCELERATION ACADEMY HIGH SCHOOL 1202 W. Grant St., Plant City 33563 813-707-7430; hillsboroughschools.org/simmons
Simmons Career Acceleration Academy High School in Plant City serves students 9-12, providing a school culture focused on academic achievement, personal growth, and preparing students for a successful future after high school. Students experience a hybrid learning approach, career preparation through industry certifications, and a streamlined path to graduation. Students can take part in athletics and extracurricular activities at their zoned school.
SKYCREST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 129 N. Belcher Road, Clearwater 33765 727-797-1186; skycrestchristianschool.org
Skycrest Christian School provides a 21st century education that enables your children to enter their high school years with outstanding academic preparation, leadership skills and confidence in their ability to succeed. Skycrest offers newly integrated technology, extensive extracurricular activities, and dedicated and caring teachers. Enrollment: 143 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 550 Class-Size: 18-25 Grades: K4-grade 8 Tuition: K4-4th: $12,500, 5th-8th: $12,850
(HUMAN HEALTH AND PERFORMANCE, MEDICAL ADMINISTRATION AND SCIENCES)
2011 E. Sligh Ave., Tampa 33610 813-276-5596; hillsboroughschools.org/sligh
Join a culture of future health professionals whose uniforms are doctors' scrubs four days a week. We are preparing students for one of the fastest growing career fields in the country. Electives engage all students with Career and Technical Education, Family and Consumer Science and our AVID college readiness program.
SOUTH COUNTY CAREER ACCELERATION ACADEMY HIGH SCHOOL 2810 John Sherman Way, Ruskin 33570 813-233-3335; hillsboroughschools.org/sccc
South County Career Center offers an accelerated program to any high school student to either earn previously lost credits or to accelerate in current courses using Edgenuity. We currently offer Automotive program as well as Agriculture as electives.
SOUTH TAMPA ACADEMY AT MONROE MIDDLE MAGNET
(IB CANDIDATE)
4716 Montgomery Ave., Tampa 33616 813-272-3020; hillsboroughschools.org/monroe
We develop active learners and internationally-minded students. Students will be guided by the International Baccalaureate World School Philosophy. Students can pursue unique electives like computer modeling and simulation. Our sixth grade structure creates a supportive middle school transition. We are the only middle magnet school in South Tampa and prepare our students to potentially step into the halls of Robinson IB!
ST. CECELIA INTERPAROCHIAL CATHOLIC SCHOOL 1350 Court St., Clearwater 33756 727-461-1207; st-cecelia.org
St. Cecelia (SCS) is a two-time recipient of the prestigious Blue Ribbon Award, both in 2020 and 2010. SCS is also Pinellas county’s only private school to offer the International Baccalaureate to students in grades PreK-3 to grade 8. Through the IB Programme we provide tools, develop character and teach skills that prepare our students to thrive in high school, college and beyond. We remain steadfast in our commitment to our students’ educational and personal success and to the betterment of our local and global communities.
ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL 1002 S. Rome Ave., 906 S. Orleans Ave., 240 S. Plant Ave., Tampa 33606 813-849-4200; stjohnseagles.org
Located in the heart of Tampa, St. John's Episcopal School delivers an unparalleled, values-driven, progressive education for children in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. Hard work, faith, respect, honesty and a commitment to excellence allow our graduates to thrive in high school, college and beyond.
ST. LAWRENCE CATHOLIC SCHOOL 5223 N. Himes Ave., Tampa 33614 813-879-5090; stlawrencecatholicschool.org
St. Lawrence is a Parish school filled with rich traditions of our Catholic faith. The graduates are well prepared spiritually and academically for the next phase of their journey, high school. We pride ourselves in our motto, “La Familia.” All are welcome here at St. Lawrence Catholic School.
ST. MARY’S EPISCOPAL DAY SCHOOL 2101 S. Hubert Ave., Tampa 33629 813-258-5508; smeds.org
St. Mary’s Episcopal Day School provides challenging academics, performing and visual arts, competitive athletics, technology, public speaking, world languages, global studies, community service, religious education and more. St. Mary’s highly-qualified pre-K through 8th grade faculty inspires students to achieve their best, developing into well-rounded individuals ready for the challenges ahead. Enrollment: 642 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 135 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 434 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 445 Class-Size: 20-25 depending on grade Grades: PreK3-grade 8 Tuition: $7,774-$8,645
Enrollment: 575 Class-Size: 20 Grades: K4-8 Tuition: $15,280 - $15,840
Enrollment: 493 Class-Size: <25 Grades: PreK3-grade 8 Tuition: $8,046-$11,045
Enrollment: 450 Class-Size: 20 Grades: PreK-8 Tuition: $17,740
STEWART MIDDLE MAGNET (NASA EXPLORER SCHOOL)
1125 Spruce St., Tampa 33607 813-276-5691; hillsboroughschools.org/stewart
Be part of one of the only nationally recognized NASA Explorer Schools in the country! Through our Project Lead the Way curriculum, students choose from electives like aerospace and engineering. Stewart partners with NASA, NOAA and the U.S. Air Force for real-world learning. Our location on the Hillsborough River and next to Blake and near Dunbar Magnet add to the opportunities our students enjoy every day! Enrollment: 842 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE
TAMPA CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL 4630 N. Rome Ave., Tampa 33603 813-870-0860; tampacatholic.org
Tampa Catholic High School is a co-educational school of the Diocese of St. Petersburg dedicated to providing students with “Veritas et Caritas” (truth and charity) through educational excellence in a Christ centered environment. Its curriculum reinforces critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, problem solving and depth of understanding necessary for 21st-century learners. Enrollment: 725 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: $12,000 - $15,000
TAMPA DAY SCHOOL 12606 Henderson Road, Tampa 33625 813-269-2100; tampadayschool.com
Celebrating 50 years of meeting the needs of bright students with Dyslexia, ADHD or anxiety, TDS offers a uniquely designed college-prep curriculum. With small class sizes, instruction incorporates interactive and handson experiences, along with an emphasis on study and organizational skills, promoting success and improved confidence. Contact us to learn more! Enrollment: 153 Class-Size: 10-12 Grades: 3-8 Tuition: $22,250 + $1,800 in fees
TAMPA HEIGHTS ELEMENTARY MAGNET
(GLOBAL LEADERSHIP ACADEMY)
305 E. Columbus Dr., Tampa 33602 813-276-5405; hillsboroughschools.org/tampaheights
Our students become innovative thinkers who achieve academically and socially through our seven Wonders—leadership, environment, economics, wellness, innovation, communication and culture. Students can participate in Model United Nations and Odyssey of the Mind, learn world languages and leadership, and experience cultural clusters such as yoga, cooking, African art and LEGO makerspace.
TAMPA PREPARATORY SCHOOL 727 W. Cass St., Tampa 33606 813-251-8481; tampaprep.org
At Tampa Prep, we don't limit our thinking. We keep moving forward even if we can't see over the horizon just yet. We stay open to new ideas and at the ready for new challenges. We are Florida's Most Innovative School. We are Tampa Prep, a co-ed, independent school for grades 6 - 12 in downtown Tampa. We are here to inspire the next great explorers, innovators and creators. Enrollment: 294 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 710 Class-Size: 15 Grades: 6-12 Tuition: $26,295 - $27,245
VALRICO LAKE ADVANTAGE ACADEMY 13306 Boyette Road, Riverview 33569 813-699-5049; valricoacademy.com
A tuition-free, public charter school proudly serving students in kindergarten through fifth Grade, the school provides a well-rounded elementary foundation through a challenging curriculum with a focus on teaching math and science in proven and innovative instructional methods preparing students for their secondary education and beyond. We are an “A” rated Florida School of Excellence offering the Cambridge program for Advanced Studies. Cognia accredited.
VANGUARD SCHOOL 22000 US Highway 27, Lake Wales 33859 863-676-6091; vanguardschool.org
The Vanguard School is a co-educational boarding and day school for students in grades 6-12. Vanguard specializes in educating students who experience academic learning challenges in an environment that works with academic strategies, executive functioning, social skills, celebrates student strengths and assists in transitioning into higher educational opportunities and independent living. Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 100 boarding, up to 120 total Class-Size: 6-10 Grades: 6-12 Tuition: 7-day $49,000; 5-day $43,000; Day $25,500
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: Parent + Child through 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: 1,094 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE
WEB OF WISDOM 5238 Mile Stretch Drive, Holiday 34690 727-389-4750; wowschools.org
WOW, where learning meets adventure and education, isn’t limited to the classroom. We offer college preparatory academics (AP/Dual Enrollment) in conjunction with extraordinary extracurriculars. These include snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, climbing, camping, athletics (K-12), computer programming, automotive repair, music and photography. We are the education that you’re looking for, with the experiences that your child will remember forever.
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 475 students in Kindergarten through eighth grade from Northern Pinellas County, Southern Pasco County, Trinity, Westchase and surrounding communities.
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: 150 Class-Size: 10-19 Grades: K-12 Tuition: $8,800 - $10,500
Enrollment: 475 Class-Size: 1:18 Grades: K-8 Tuition: $8,950-$9,275
Enrollment: 847 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE
YOUNG MIDDLE MAGNET (CREATIVE SCIENCE CENTRE)
1807 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd., Tampa 33610 813-276-5739; hillsboroughschools.org/young
We empower creative learners with our Project Lead the Way STEM curriculum. We focus on engineering, sustainability and "Global Planting"— engaging students in hands-on learning with an on-campus hydroponic farm and greenhouse, along with student-constructed rain gardens. Students learn using state-of-the-art technology, including touch-enabled whiteboards and 3-D printers. Enrollment: 446 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE
