Welcome Military Families

  • Hillsborough County Public Schools is honored to serve you and your family during your time at MacDill Air Force.

School & HCPS Resources

  • Military Point of Contact 
    Principal John Haley 
    Email: John.Haley@hcps.net 

    During the school year, families interested in learning more about the Boys Preparatory Academy (BPA) can contact our Lead Teacher, Caitlin Zimmerman, at Caitlin.Zimmerman@hcps.net. 

    School Registration

    Admittance to the Boys Preparatory Academy at Franklin is through the Choice Application process. Active-duty families transitioning during the school year or after an application window can apply for admittance. Please contact the Choice Information Line at 813-272-4692 and identify yourself as a transitioning active-duty family for information on how to apply to the Boys Preparatory Academy at Franklin.  

    If you applied and accepted an offer visit the link below for information on the enrollment process or call BPA at 813-744-8108.  

    Student Led Transition Program
    One of the unique features of BPA is its House System. Each student is assigned to one of the houses upon enrolling at BPA. The students elect captains and then students and faculty choose the executive officer for their House. The XO's and team captains lead the students in team-building and character education lessons weekly. Each new student is paired up with a current team captain who will help familiarize the new student with the school campus, the house system, other opportunities at BPA, and any other transitional needs. The House system nurtures an environment of inclusion, healthy competition, and character education that allows students to participate in their school community, build camaraderie, and develop accountability and good sportsmanship. 

    Exceptional Student Education
    Families can contact Barbara Gable at Barbara.Gable@hcps.net with questions regarding Exceptional Student Education.  

    If you are transitioning to the area and have questions about services in Hillsborough County Public Schools, contact the Choice Information Line at 813-272-4692 and identify yourself as a transitioning military family to connect with the Exceptional Student Education Department.  

    Gold Star Families Memorial Monument
    Franklin BPA is proud to be home to a Gold Star Families Memorial Monument and the students are provided lessons about Gold and Blue Star Families and frequently engage with Gold Star Families, veterans, and active duty during events on the school campus. 

    Mental Health Resources
    There are many challenges military students face due to their unique situation, such as having a parent deployed for extended periods of time, changing schools, and leaving friends.  Your child’s School Student Services staff, i.e. School Counselor, School Psychologist and/or School Social Worker can provide support and share resources to assist during these challenging times. Families can also visit the HCPS Mental Health Matters site for additional resources.

    Contact Venetia Waters, MAFB’s School Liaison Officer to connect your child or a family member to a Military Family Life Counselor.
    (813) 828-0146 or venetia.waters@us.af.mil

    Student Progression Plan
    Provides families with academic information at the elementary, middle and high school level.  

Military Recognition Events

  • September - 9/11 - Heroes' Day Recognition
    November  - Veterans Week Activities
    April - Month of the Military Child