HOMEWORK HELP: Free opportu

Hillsborough Public Libraries Offer Homework Help

by Jimmy Velez, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library. All photos provided by Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library.

The pandemic that has consumed daily life for the past year and a half has been deeply challenging to all, and especially for students. Students have had to abruptly adapt to new routines such as remote learning, and many of them have struggled. This new school year reunites students with their friends, peers, teachers and librarians. It also reunites them with homework. Luckily for students and their parents, there are countless public library resources that students and parents can use for homework help to ease this transition. Find all the free educational resources you’ll need this school year with your Hillsborough County public library card or student HAAL Pass. Begin the application process online at HCPLC. org/GetACard. With HAAL Pass, all Hillsborough County School, Hillsborough County Charter School or Hillsborough Virtual School students can use their student ID numbers to access articles and study aids, read eBooks and audiobooks and borrow up to 3 items. Learn more at HCPLC.org/HAALPass.

HERE ARE JUST A FEW OF THE PUBLIC LIBRARY RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO STUDENTS AT HCPLC.ORG/HOMEWORKHELP:

TUTOR.COM offers a wide range of resources for academic help, including live one-on-one tutoring sessions with education professionals seven days a week. Tutor.com covers math, science, social studies and is also available for Spanish-speaking students. Students may submit papers for review, send math questions for step-by-step guidance and get help with essay writing. For older students, Tutor.com offers college preparation and career resources.

SCIENCE ONLINE is an extensive database provided through your local public library with a full range of scientific resources for students. Access learning modules, news and magazine articles, videos and even interactive experiments any time and from any device.

LEARNINGEXPRESS offers extra help with school assignments for elementary and middle school students. Students may access hundreds of practice tests for a wide range of subjects such as reading, writing and math. There are also many sample practice tests for high school and college entrance exams. For any of the resources, you can create an account to track your progress. LearningExpress is available through the library website and through a recently released app, http://ow.ly/fAX250zhgUJ

WOULD YOUR STUDENT LIKE ADDITIONAL HELP? ASK A LIBRARIAN!

WORLD BOOK ENCYCLOPEDIA ONLINE supports all levels of learning with features and includes a collection of encyclopedic resources including World Book for Kids, World Book Discover and Timelines. Articles cover both historical and current topics making it an essential resource for many students.

Local librarians are available to answer your questions Monday - Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at AskALibrarian.org/Hillsborough. You can also visit any Hillsborough County public library location or contact us by chat, text or email. HCPLC.org/Contact Learning is a lifelong habit, and the public library offers these and many more resources to support learners of all ages.

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.

RAMPELLO K-8 MAGNET (CULTURAL ARTS AND HUMANITIES )

802 E. Washington St., Tampa 33602 813-233-2333; rampello.mysdhc.org

Join us for experiential learning with walking field trips through downtown Tampa, and a differentiated instruction focus to meet the needs of all learners. We have strong community partnerships and school-wide AVID instructional strategies. Middle school electives include: Band/Jazz/Orchestra/Steel Drums, Art 2-D and 3-D, Spanish and Creative Writing.

RIVERHILLS ELEMENTARY MAGNET (IB)

405 Riverhills Drive, Temple Terrace 33617 813-987-6911; riverhills.mysdhc.org

Located on the Hillsborough River, with all the science potential and experiment potential that implies, we prepare students to meet the challenges of world citizenship with confidence, imagination and integrity. Students can study global cultures and develop an open and curious mind. Students engage in music and arts programs, Odyssey of the Mind, Robotics Team, Inquiry-based learning centers, student action/service learning, world languages and more.

RODGERS MIDDLE MAGNET (CAMBRIDGE CANDIDATE)

11910 Tucker Road, Riverview 33569 813-671-5288; hillsboroughschools.org/rodgers

Rodgers, an authorized Cambridge International Magnet School, offers learning guided by the rigorous, world renowned Cambridge Pathways philosophy. Located in Riverview's Bell Creek Nature Preserve, we embrace and empower the whole student. Several National Board-Certified Teachers highlight our exceptional team of educators. Ask us about our Cambridge Honors Institute if you choose to apply!

ROLAND PARK K-8 MAGNET (IB)

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

We inspire young inquiring minds to become compassionate, lifelong learners and internationally-minded people with respect for various cultures and a desire to serve others. Students can experience inquiry-based learning centers, transdisciplinary units of study, an outdoor classroom with an international garden, a strings program and world languages.

SAFETY HARBOR MONTESSORI ACADEMY 2669 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater 34653 727-724-1767; safetyharbormontessori.com

Safety Harbor Montessori Academy is a learning community whose primary goal is to help students reach their full potential in all aspects of their development, in a loving, respectful atmosphere. We have programs for children ages 2 through 14, providing continuity from early childhood to adolescence.

SHORE ELEMENTARY MAGNET

(VISUAL, PERFORMING AND COMMUNICATION ARTS)

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

We are an award-winning Magnet School of the Arts located in historic Ybor City. Students learn through arts and science integration and can take part in the Annual Arts Festival and school musical. Students expand their horizons through visual art, dance, strings, music, drama, STEAM Engineering and robotics programs. Our partnership with the Straz Performing Arts Center brings Broadway to our students--something you will find at no other school! Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 777 Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 529 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 823 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 766 Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 111 Class-size: 12-18 Grades: Ages 2-grade 8 Tuition: $9,800-$16,650

Enrollment: 441 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

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.

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

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

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

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

SLIGH MIDDLE MAGNET

(HUMAN HEALTH AND PERFORMANCE, MEDICAL ADMINISTRATION AND SCIENCES)

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

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

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

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

SOUTH TAMPA ACADEMY AT MONROE MIDDLE MAGNET

(IB CANDIDATE)

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

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

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

Enrollment: 250 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: FREE

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

Enrollment: 579 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 200 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: FREE

Enrollment: 432 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

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

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. 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.

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

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

TAMPA HEIGHTS ELEMENTARY MAGNET

(GLOBAL LEADERSHIP ACADEMY)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Enrollment: 308 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE

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

WALKER MIDDLE MAGNET (IB)

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

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

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

Westlake Christian School, a National Blue Ribbon School, is accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools/AdvancED. Westlake’s mission is to help students develop in their faith, academics, fine arts and athletics. Westlake serves approximately 425 students in Kindergarten through eighth grade from Northern Pinellas County, Southern Pasco County, Trinity, Westchase and surrounding communities.

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: 425 Class-size: 1:18 Grades: K-8 Tuition: $8,950-$9,275

Enrollment: 841 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE

YOUNG MIDDLE MAGNET (CREATIVE SCIENCE CENTRE)

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

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

VIEW OUR FULL EDUCATION DIRECTORY ONLINE AT TAMPABAYPARENTING.COM

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