Shields Middle School opened in August, 2003 with approximately 1000 students.  
Beth Shields Middle School was named after Kathryn Elizabeth ``Beth'' Shields who dedicated her life to improving opportunities for Hillsborough County's school children.

Beth spent 44 years in the Hillsborough County school system, working both as a teacher and administrator. A graduate of Hillsborough High School and the University of Tampa, with a Master's Degree from the University of South Florida, Beth launched her career as a math teacher at Memorial Junior High School, then at H.B. Plant High School.

Beth worked hard throughout her career, and as she rose through the school district's ranks, she paved the way for other women working in Hillsborough County schools. She served as dean and assistant principal at Robinson High School, principal of Coleman Junior High School and principal of H.B. Plant High School. Beth then served as district-wide assistant superintendent of personnel and assistant superintendent of instruction until she became the first female deputy superintendent in Hillsborough County schools.

During her tenure, Beth pushed for more rigorous curriculum and academic standards; she spearheaded a successful initiative to improve school attendance and helped smooth the transition when magnet schools were integrated into the school system. Beth will be remembered for her commitment to helping young people, her impressive work ethic and the many ways that she changed Hillsborough County School District for the better. Beth Shields Middle School in Ruskin stands witness to her lifetime of dedication.

At home, Beth was active in her church and in a number of community and charitable organizations, including the Southwest Florida Blood Bank, the United Way, the Tampa Coalition and the Hillsborough County Anti-Drug Abuse Advisory Council, SERVE and Athena.
Mrs. Shields's career spanned nearly four decades.  She was known for working diligently on increasing student attendance and for being child-centered.
 
Shields Middle School receives students from Belmont Elementary, Cypress Creek Elementary, Reddick Elementary, Ruskin Elementary,Thompson Elementary, and Wimauma Elementary and feeds into Lennard High and Sumner High Schools. Currently, the school has approximately 1850 students.  The student body, faculty, and staff are a diverse and talented community.