FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Tampa, Fl. (February 16, 2026) – Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) is proud to announce outstanding progress in preparing students for postsecondary success. According to the most recent data released by the Florida Department of Education (FLDOE), the district achieved a 70.9% College and Career Acceleration (CCA) rate, marking a 3-percentage-point increase from the previous year.  

 

The CCA rate represents the percentage of high school graduates who have earned college credit or industry certifications by the time they graduate. This growth reflects the district’s ongoing commitment to preparing students for postsecondary success through advanced coursework, industry certifications, and dual enrollment opportunities. 

 

Over the last six years, HCPS has increased its CCA rate by 17 percentage points, a testament to the district’s long-term instructional strategies, targeted support systems, and commitment to expanding access to high-quality acceleration pathways.

 

“This significant progress reflects the hard work and dedication of our school and district leaders, teachers, counselors, support staff, and instructional teams,” said Superintendent Van Ayres. “Their commitment to creating meaningful acceleration opportunities ensures that every student graduates prepared for college, career, and life.”

 

Schools With the Highest CCA Rates

  • Newsome High School – 91%

  • Plant High School – 88%

  • Tampa Bay Technical High School – 82%

  • Bloomingdale High School – 81%

  • Sickles High School – 81%

  • Steinbrenner High School – 81%

  • Alonso High School – 80%

  • Freedom High School – 80%

 Schools Showing the Largest One-Year Increase

  • Gaither High School – +15 points

  • Sickles High School – +12 points

  • Brandon High School – +11 points

  • Newsome High School – +8 points

  • Spoto High School – +8 points

HCPS remains committed to expanding advanced coursework, increasing access to industry certifications, and supporting students in achieving the credentials and experiences that prepare them for future success.

To learn more about accelerate programs and career and technical education at HCPS visit hillsboroughschools.org.