🏆 Congratulations to 44 Hillsborough County Public Schools seniors named 2026 College-Sponsored National Merit Scholarship winners! Their academic achievement, dedication, and commitment to excellence have earned them this prestigious national recognition. We are proud of these outstanding students! 🎓✨
See the complete list of winners: https://www.hillsboroughschools.org/article/2966795
🎻 #ThrowbackThursday to Randall Middle School's incredible end-of-year Spring Concert!
Principal Colin Gerding joined Orchestra Director Robert Barnes and 120 Randall orchestra students on stage to perform an original composition written by Mr. Barnes. The piece was specially created so every 6th-, 7th-, and 8th-grade orchestra student could perform together. To make the moment even more memorable, Mr. Barnes surprised each student with matching orchestra "tattoo sleeves" for the performance.
What a fantastic finale to an outstanding year of music and memories!
See the full performance here: https://youtu.be/ENQFmRuPFWI
Principal Colin Gerding joined Orchestra Director Robert Barnes and 120 Randall orchestra students on stage to perform an original composition written by Mr. Barnes. The piece was specially created so every 6th-, 7th-, and 8th-grade orchestra student could perform together. To make the moment even more memorable, Mr. Barnes surprised each student with matching orchestra "tattoo sleeves" for the performance.
What a fantastic finale to an outstanding year of music and memories!
See the full performance here: https://youtu.be/ENQFmRuPFWI
Throwback Thursday to an incredible achievement! 🇺🇸🏆
Back in May, Middleton High School Cadet Major Arthi Gouravelli earned the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) Outstanding JROTC Cadet Award. After winning at the Tampa chapter and Florida state levels, Arthi went on to capture the national title, becoming the #1 JROTC cadet among more than 600,000 cadets from 3,400+ JROTC programs worldwide across all military branches.
We are incredibly proud of Arthi’s outstanding leadership, dedication, and achievement! 👏
PLANNING AHEAD? 🗓️ We've got you covered! The 2027-2028 Student Academic Calendar is now available, giving families an early look at important dates for the FOLLOWING school year.
Students' First Day of School -Tuesday, August 10, 2027
Regular Student Day/No Early Release - Monday, August 16, 2027
Labor Day/Non-Student Day - Monday, September 6, 2027
End of 1st Grading Period - Friday, October 8, 2027
Veterans Day/Non-Student Day - Thursday, November 11, 2027
Fall Break/Non-Student Days - Monday, November 22 - Friday, November 26, 2027
Students Return to School - Monday, November 29, 2027
End of 2nd Grading Period/1st Semester - Friday, December 17, 2027
Winter Break/Non-Student Days - Monday, December 20 - Friday, December 31, 2027
Non-Student Day - Monday, January 3, 2028
Students Return to School - Tuesday, January 4, 2028
Martin Luther King, Jr./Non-Student Day - Monday, January 17, 2028
Florida State Fair/Non-Student Day - Friday, February 18, 2028
Presidents' Day/Non-Student Day - Monday, February 21, 2028
Strawberry Festival/Non-Student Day - Monday, March 6, 2028
End of 3rd Grading Period - Friday, March 10, 2028
Spring Break/Non-Student Days - Monday, March 13 - Friday, March 17, 2028
Non-Student Day - Monday, March 20, 2028
Students Return to School - Tuesday, March 21, 2028
Non-Student Day - Friday, April 14, 2028
Last Day of School; End of 4th Grading Period/2nd Semester - Friday, May 26, 2028
Tentative Hurricane Make-Up Day(s) if needed: November 11, November 22-24, January 3, 2028.
Student Early Release Day schedule has not been finalized.
Monday, August 16, 2027, will be a regular student day.
The last day of school is a 2.5-hour early release.
In case you need THIS YEAR'S calendar, visit hillsboroughschools.org/o/hcps/page/calendar26-27.
Congratulations to Christa Washington on being named the new principal of LaVoy Exceptional Student Education Center!
Christa began her career in education nearly 20 years ago in Virginia Beach, Virginia, teaching students with disabilities. She joined the HCPS family in 2019 as an Access Points teacher at Lopez Exceptional Student Education Center.
In 2022, she was appointed AP at East Bay High School before transferring to LaVoy Exceptional Center as AP in 2023. Most recently, she served as principal of Eisenhower Exceptional Student Education Center.
Our LaVoy Lancers will continue to enjoy a meaningful and personalized learning experience under your leadership, Christa!
Christa began her career in education nearly 20 years ago in Virginia Beach, Virginia, teaching students with disabilities. She joined the HCPS family in 2019 as an Access Points teacher at Lopez Exceptional Student Education Center.
In 2022, she was appointed AP at East Bay High School before transferring to LaVoy Exceptional Center as AP in 2023. Most recently, she served as principal of Eisenhower Exceptional Student Education Center.
Our LaVoy Lancers will continue to enjoy a meaningful and personalized learning experience under your leadership, Christa!
Meet the proud new principal of Woodbridge Elementary School, Kimberly Lee!
Kimberly began her career with HCPS in 2005 as a 3rd-grade teacher at Hunter's Green Elementary School. She later taught 3rd and 4th grades at Bryant and Deer Park Elementary Schools. In 2013, she became a peer evaluator at Deer Park before serving as lead teacher at Robles Elementary School in 2016 and transitioning to an instructional mentor with Leadership Development in 2017.
In 2020, Kimberly became a resource teacher supporting Transformation Schools and Woodbridge Elementary. Most recently, she served as the AP at Woodbridge since 2022.
The Wildcat pride is undeniable, and our Woodbridge students are lucky to have you, Kimberly! Congratulations!
Kimberly began her career with HCPS in 2005 as a 3rd-grade teacher at Hunter's Green Elementary School. She later taught 3rd and 4th grades at Bryant and Deer Park Elementary Schools. In 2013, she became a peer evaluator at Deer Park before serving as lead teacher at Robles Elementary School in 2016 and transitioning to an instructional mentor with Leadership Development in 2017.
In 2020, Kimberly became a resource teacher supporting Transformation Schools and Woodbridge Elementary. Most recently, she served as the AP at Woodbridge since 2022.
The Wildcat pride is undeniable, and our Woodbridge students are lucky to have you, Kimberly! Congratulations!
Congratulations to the new principal of Tampa Heights Elementary School, Michelle Alphonse!
Michelle began her career in education in Massachusetts, where she taught for seven years. She later joined the HCPS family in 2014 as a 4th-grade teacher at Fishhawk Creek Elementary School. In 2020, she transferred to Kenly Elementary School to serve as a math resource teacher. In 2022, she was appointed AP at Lamb Elementary School, where she currently serves.
Our Navigators are going to pave the way to an incredible future under your leadership, Michelle!
Michelle began her career in education in Massachusetts, where she taught for seven years. She later joined the HCPS family in 2014 as a 4th-grade teacher at Fishhawk Creek Elementary School. In 2020, she transferred to Kenly Elementary School to serve as a math resource teacher. In 2022, she was appointed AP at Lamb Elementary School, where she currently serves.
Our Navigators are going to pave the way to an incredible future under your leadership, Michelle!
Meet the new principal of Edison Elementary School, Lakisha Woodfork!
Lakisha began her career with HCPS in 2010 as a 1st-grade teacher at Oak Park Elementary School before teaching 3rd grade at Potter and Shore Elementary Schools. She later served as a reading coach at Edison, Clair Mel, and Summerfield Crossing Elementary Schools before becoming a literacy coach for the district's Transformation Schools. In 2022, she was appointed AP at Colson Elementary School, and in 2024, she joined Edison Elementary School as AP.
Congratulations, Lakisha! We know you will continue to help our Edison Eagles soar to new heights.
Lakisha began her career with HCPS in 2010 as a 1st-grade teacher at Oak Park Elementary School before teaching 3rd grade at Potter and Shore Elementary Schools. She later served as a reading coach at Edison, Clair Mel, and Summerfield Crossing Elementary Schools before becoming a literacy coach for the district's Transformation Schools. In 2022, she was appointed AP at Colson Elementary School, and in 2024, she joined Edison Elementary School as AP.
Congratulations, Lakisha! We know you will continue to help our Edison Eagles soar to new heights.
Congratulations to Dr. Solomon Lowery on being named the new principal of Shields Middle School!
Dr. Lowery began his career serving in the U.S. military from 1996 through 2004 before beginning his education career as a middle school teacher in Pinellas County in 2003.
Throughout his career with Pinellas County Schools, he has served as an assistant principal at both the middle and high school levels, principal of three middle schools, and most recently, as executive director of school climate and behavior. He has also served as an adjunct professor at St. Petersburg College and the University of Florida.
Please join us in congratulating Dr. Lowery as he joins the HCPS family!
Dr. Lowery began his career serving in the U.S. military from 1996 through 2004 before beginning his education career as a middle school teacher in Pinellas County in 2003.
Throughout his career with Pinellas County Schools, he has served as an assistant principal at both the middle and high school levels, principal of three middle schools, and most recently, as executive director of school climate and behavior. He has also served as an adjunct professor at St. Petersburg College and the University of Florida.
Please join us in congratulating Dr. Lowery as he joins the HCPS family!
📚✏️ Save on school supplies before the new school year!
Florida’s 2026 Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday runs July 20–August 20, giving families the opportunity to purchase qualifying school supplies tax-free. For a list of items, visit https://floridarevenue.com/backtoschool.
Stock up on essentials and get ready for a great year ahead! 🎒
Florida’s 2026 Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday runs July 20–August 20, giving families the opportunity to purchase qualifying school supplies tax-free. For a list of items, visit https://floridarevenue.com/backtoschool.
Stock up on essentials and get ready for a great year ahead! 🎒
Congratulations to our talented student artists! 🎨👏
Hillsborough County Public Schools earned top honors in the 2026 Congressional Art Competition, with students taking 1st-, 2nd-, and 3rd-place among entries from Florida's 16th Congressional District.
Ireland Cates (Bloomingdale High) earned 1st Place, and her artwork, The Capitol, will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol complex in Washington, D.C. Olivia Fields (Riverview High) received 2nd Place, and Madelyn Bowers (Bloomingdale High) earned 3rd Place.
Special congratulations to Malik Dante Walker and Adam Nuykin of Sumner High School for being named Facebook Fan Favorite winners!
We're so proud of these outstanding artists for showcasing the incredible talent and creativity found across HCPS! 🎉🎨
A vision from Alonso High School came to life at Lowry Elementary School! 🎨
IB students Alessandra Varszegi and Alessia Elbooz brought their creativity and passion to their IB CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) project by designing and painting a mural for the Lowry Elementary community. Over several months, students and staff watched their vision unfold, sparking conversations, excitement, and inspiration along the way.
The completed mural is a beautiful example of student leadership, creativity, and the impact of bringing communities together through art.
There’s still time to apply for Florida’s FREE New Worlds Reading program!
The application deadline has been extended to Sunday, July 12, giving eligible VPK through 5th-grade students and their families a few extra days to enroll and receive free books and at-home literacy resources.
Students who completed 5th grade during the 2025-2026 school year are still eligible and can receive 9 free books, plus two bonus books this summer before starting middle school.
To check your student's eligibility and apply, visit https://bit.ly/4tZ6EYy.
The application deadline has been extended to Sunday, July 12, giving eligible VPK through 5th-grade students and their families a few extra days to enroll and receive free books and at-home literacy resources.
Students who completed 5th grade during the 2025-2026 school year are still eligible and can receive 9 free books, plus two bonus books this summer before starting middle school.
To check your student's eligibility and apply, visit https://bit.ly/4tZ6EYy.
We've extended our Summer Feeding Program's weekly meal box distribution by one more week!
Families can pick up a free seven-day meal box every Wednesday on July 15, July 22, and now July 29, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at South County Career Center (2810 John Sherman Way, Ruskin).
Each meal box includes seven days of breakfast and lunch meals, plus a gallon of milk for children and teens 18 and younger. Children do not need to be present for pickup.
Can't make it to the weekly pickup? HCPS also continues to offer free on-site meals at more than 150 locations throughout the summer. Find a meal site near you at summerbreakspot.org.
Did you know that seven of our Class of 2026 graduates achieved perfect attendance throughout their entire K–12 educational journey?!
That means these students completed 13 years of school without missing a single day:
Julius Montalvo, Gaither High School
Nathan Jorden, Lennard High School
Noah Jorden, Lennard High School
Amanda Harris, Newsome High School
Darius Donaldson-Dunphy, Plant City High School
Matthew Mason, Sickles High School
Sadie Jones, Sickles High School
They were recognized at a recent school board meeting, and each received a $500 scholarship gift card from our partner in education, Suncoast Credit Union.
Join Hillsborough County Public Schools at our Transportation Job Fair and explore careers as a Bus Driver or Mechanic. Enjoy great benefits, paid time off, free training, school breaks, and more.
📅 July 15 | 🕘 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
📅 July 29 | 🕘 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
📅 August 19 | 🕘 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
at our Transportation HQ located at 9455 Harney Rd, Thonotosassa
Help keep our students moving safely every day! Register Today: https://bit.ly/2026DrivetheBus
Learn more about our Transportation and the benefits of joining the team at http://hillsboroughschools.org/drive.
Give your student more opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed in an A-graded school district! The final Magnet and School Choice application window for the 2026–2027 school year opens Monday, July 6, at 6:00 p.m. and closes Sunday, July 12, at 11:59 p.m.
Families can explore a variety of options, including STEM, arts, International Baccalaureate (IB), career-themed magnet programs, Montessori, and Hillsborough Virtual School. Find a magnet program that best fits your student's interests and goals at http://hillsboroughschools.org/magnet.
Apply before the deadline >> http://hillsboroughschools.org/choice.
Families can explore a variety of options, including STEM, arts, International Baccalaureate (IB), career-themed magnet programs, Montessori, and Hillsborough Virtual School. Find a magnet program that best fits your student's interests and goals at http://hillsboroughschools.org/magnet.
Apply before the deadline >> http://hillsboroughschools.org/choice.
We'd like to congratulate Amy Metzler on being named the new principal of Tampa Bay Boulevard Elementary School!
Amy began her education career as a preschool teacher in Allentown, Pennsylvania. In 2006, she taught 3rd grade in Cobb County, Georgia, before joining the HCPS family in 2010. She taught 5th grade at Summerfield Crossings Elementary School and Shore Elementary School before becoming a math coach in 2013. Amy served as a math coach at Shore, Tampa Heights, Potter, and Bing Elementary Schools, as well as at the district level. She was appointed assistant principal at Sulphur Springs K-8 in 2019. Most recently, she served as principal of Tampa Heights Elementary School.
Congratulations, Amy! We know our Buccaneers are ready to chart a course for success under your leadership!
Amy began her education career as a preschool teacher in Allentown, Pennsylvania. In 2006, she taught 3rd grade in Cobb County, Georgia, before joining the HCPS family in 2010. She taught 5th grade at Summerfield Crossings Elementary School and Shore Elementary School before becoming a math coach in 2013. Amy served as a math coach at Shore, Tampa Heights, Potter, and Bing Elementary Schools, as well as at the district level. She was appointed assistant principal at Sulphur Springs K-8 in 2019. Most recently, she served as principal of Tampa Heights Elementary School.
Congratulations, Amy! We know our Buccaneers are ready to chart a course for success under your leadership!
Meet Jennifer Heinze, the new principal of Morgan Woods Elementary School!
Jennifer began her career with HCPS in 2005 as a 2nd-grade teacher at Dunbar Elementary School. She later taught 2nd and 3rd grades and served as Reading Coach at Edison Elementary School. In 2019, she was appointed assistant principal at Muller Elementary School before returning to Edison as assistant principal in 2020. Most recently, she served as principal of Edison.
Congratulations, Jennifer! We know our Tigers will accomplish great things under your leadership.
Jennifer began her career with HCPS in 2005 as a 2nd-grade teacher at Dunbar Elementary School. She later taught 2nd and 3rd grades and served as Reading Coach at Edison Elementary School. In 2019, she was appointed assistant principal at Muller Elementary School before returning to Edison as assistant principal in 2020. Most recently, she served as principal of Edison.
Congratulations, Jennifer! We know our Tigers will accomplish great things under your leadership.
Congratulations to Carmon Hinton on being named the new principal of McDonald Elementary School!
Carmon began her education career in 2013 with the Cleveland Metropolitan School District in Ohio. In 2019, she moved to Florida and joined the HCPS family, where she taught Varying Exceptionalities at Kimbell Elementary School. Most recently, she served as assistant principal at Lewis Elementary School.
We look forward to seeing the incredible work you'll accomplish with our Mustangs, Carmon!
Carmon began her education career in 2013 with the Cleveland Metropolitan School District in Ohio. In 2019, she moved to Florida and joined the HCPS family, where she taught Varying Exceptionalities at Kimbell Elementary School. Most recently, she served as assistant principal at Lewis Elementary School.
We look forward to seeing the incredible work you'll accomplish with our Mustangs, Carmon!
