14 minute read
Hispanic Heritage Month: The
ALL TOGETHER: Hispanic Heritage Month
by Melissa Nye, photos provided by the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library ¡Hola! Picture this: A teen enters the library, briskly walking toward the Spanish picture books as a friend follows behind. She proceeds to read aloud to her somewhat reluctant audience, obviously proud to show off her language skills, confident and bashful at the same time as she sounds out the words. The librarian later confirms that she’s eager to revisit a language she’s forgotten much of over the years. The book goes home in a backpack, awaiting a cozy night of reading with a younger sibling.
Every day, library workers witness people of all ages engaging in library use that connects them to their own history, their heritage or others in their community. Hillsborough County currently and historically has had a vibrant and thriving Latino population. Every year, the Tampa-
FAVORITE KIDS BOOK Melissa Nye recommends “Swimmy” by Leo Leonni. Borrow a copy of this picture book at bit.ly/HCPLC-922.
Hillsborough County Public Library celebrates the culture and accomplishments of Latinos during National Hispanic Heritage Month, from mid-September to mid-October.
During National Hispanic Heritage Month this year, the public library system is offering the community a variety of ways to celebrate the culture and contributions of Hispanic Americans through special events, curated book lists and the annual youth art contests. We invite you and your family to join us. To get started, visit our celebratory landing page filled with events and resources at HCPLC.org/HispanicHeritage. Below are a few easy and fun ways your family can get involved and reap the rewards of greater connection and knowledge:
CREATE ART
Every year, children and teens all over Hillsborough County flock to create their own artistic vision of what Hispanic Heritage means to them by designing a poster or bookmark for the library’s annual art competition. The talent and hard work evident in each entry are amazing and the awards are generous. For kids who want to practice their drawing skills or are unsure about where to start, the library has a list of recommendations to stimulate confidence, also available from HCPLC.org/HispanicHeritage.
ATTEND STORY TIMES
Fiestas? Tacos? Tamales? The public library system’s Story Time Team, which provides enriching and fun-filled literacy programs tailored to children from birth to age 7, is joining the celebration with culturally specific themes during Hispanic Heritage Month. The team carefully envisions every story time with curated and engaging books, songs and weekly activities at a developmentally appropriate level. Online Story Times are also on offer for those who want to participate in the fun from home. Find information about the team, their book lists and inspirations at HCPLC.org/StoryTime.
EXPLORE CULTURALLY RELEVANT BOOKS
The library team is committed to securing access to award-winning books and highlighting them for the community. At HCPLC.org/Kids, you will find a list of award winners, such as the Pura Belpré Medal recipients. This award celebrates excellence in the depiction of the Latino cultural experience as shown by Latino authors and illustrators. The public library’s Hispanic Heritage webpage also highlights suggested books for people of all ages, and your local branch libraries have a bilingual collection ready to reinforce or inspire children to practice or gain curiosity about the second most-commonly spoken language in Hillsborough County.
That’s only the start. ¡Nos vemos!
FEATURED VIRTUAL EVENT
Cultural Cooking: Tortilla Espanola Oct. 4, 6:30 p.m. Learn how to make Tortilla Espanola, a savory dish the whole family will enjoy. Tortilla Espanola is a popular dish that originated in Spain and can be seen throughout Hispanic cuisine. Sign up at bit.ly/HCPLC-Cooking.
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.
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.
MARSHALL MIDDLE MAGNET (IB CANDIDATE)
18 S. Maryland Ave., Plant City 33563
EDU GUIDE 813-757-9360; hillsboroughschools.org/marshall Marshall IB students are guided by the International Baccalaureate program. The school is an IB Candidate School with authorization on the close horizon. Students can engage in STEM, robotics, culinary arts, Math
League and AVID college readiness. Optional Scholar Quest high school credit courses offer additional rigor. Enrollment: 279 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 372 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 1,084 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE
MULLER ELEMENTARY MAGNET
(VISUAL, PERFORMING, COMMUNICATION ARTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES)
13615 N. 22nd St., Tampa 33613 813-558-1355; hillsboroughschools.org/muller
The only elementary magnet school to host TWO programs--arts and environmental science--Muller Magnet meets the needs of students of all interests! Daily, students experience strings, dance, music and art classes. They engage in the orchestra and rock band, performance groups and our annual musical. Students can explore the outdoor classroom, global gardens and take part in the National Honor Society and student government.
NORTH TAMPA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 5585 E. County Line Road, Wesley Chapel 33544 813-991-0801; northtampaca.com
North Tampa Christian Academy (NTCA) is an accredited college preparatory private school, serving students in grades K-12. Located in Wesley Chapel on 44 acres, NTCA provides immersive on-campus education that encourages innovation through project-based learning and an engaging thematic structure. When life demands flexibility for an off-campus option, we also provide the Titan Teacher Network, a "teacher-centric" live online learning experience.
ODESSA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 19521 Michigan Ave., Odessa 33556 813-792-1825; odessachristianschool.org
OCS is a Christ-focused school for motivated learners who want to dive into learning with an emphasis on mastery and application. Using inquiry, collaboration, exploration and discussion as well as field trips and travel, students gain unparalleled responsibility, experience, perseverance and confidence in learning and public speaking. Enrollment: 441 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 500 Class-Size: varies Grades: K-12 Tuition: $13,745 - $18,230
Enrollment: 70 max Class-Size: 20-25 max Grades: K-12 Tuition: $10,500 - $12,000
ORANGE GROVE MIDDLE MAGNET
(VISUAL, PERFORMING AND COMMUNICATION ARTS)
3415 16th St., Tampa 33605 813-276-5717; hillsboroughschools.org/orangegrove
Be a shining star at Orange Grove, where high academic achievement meets creativity. Our historic campus includes two professional dance studios, video production, visual arts with a MAC lab and exceptional music and technical theater suites. We help our students prepare for their next step if they choose to apply to Blake High School or to hone their skills so they can "wow" their families. Our kids get a well-rounded education. Enrollment: 521 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE
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
EDU GUIDE 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.
SAFETY HARBOR MONTESSORI ACADEMY 2669 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater 34653 727-724-1767; safetyharbormontessori.com
Safety Harbor Montessori Academy is a learning community whose primary goal is to help students reach their full potential in all aspects of their development, in a loving, respectful atmosphere. We have programs for children ages 2 through 14, providing continuity from early childhood to adolescence.
SEFFNER CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 11605 E. U.S. HWY 92, Seffner 33584 813-626-0001; scacrusaders.com
Seffner Christian Academy is a distinctly Christian learning community for students in preschool - 12th grade. We are committed to developing well-rounded, Gospel-driven students who are prepared for life. Please contact our Admissions department to schedule a time for you to experience the SCA difference!
SHORE ELEMENTARY MAGNET
(VISUAL, PERFORMING AND COMMUNICATION ARTS)
1908 2nd Ave., Tampa 33605 813-276-5712; 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!
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 offers 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. Scholarships are available to qualified families.
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. Enrollment: 806 Grades: K-8 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 170 Class-Size: 12-24 Grades: Ages 2-grade 8 Tuition: $10,100-$16,950
Enrollment: 771 Class-Size: average 22 Grades: PreK2-12 Tuition: $9,500-$12,000
Enrollment: 373 Grades: K-5 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 143 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 540 Class-Size: 18-23 Grades: K4-grade 8 Tuition: $12,500
Enrollment: 642 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE
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. Enrollment: 135 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: FREE
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. 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: 434 Grades: 6-8 Tuition: FREE
Enrollment: 575 Class-Size: 20 Grades: K4-8 Tuition: $15,280 - $15,840
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 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
Early Learning programs for children in Hillsborough County Public Schools focuses on literacy, social/emotional learning, and school readiness.
Head Start
Head Start is a federally-funded program that promotes the school readiness of preschool-aged children from low-income families. This comprehensive program encompasses all aspects of a child’s development and learning while engaging families in positive relationships and well-being.
Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK )
Free for all 4-year-olds regardless of family income, VPK prepares children for success in Kindergarten and beyond by building a solid foundation for school using educational material corresponding to various development stages.
Pre-Kindergarten Exceptional Education Preschool Services (PEEPs)
Authorized by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), PEEPs are designed to meet the individual needs of children 3-5 years of age with developmental delays and disabilities. Developmentally appropriate learning experiences provide opportunities for personal growth and assistance with areas of special need.
