We are proud to offer the AVID Elective (Advancement Via Individual Determination)—a program designed to help students build strong academic habits, develop college‑ready skills, and gain confidence in rigorous coursework. In AVID, students practice WICOR strategies (Writing, Inquiry, Collaboration, Organization, and Reading), participate in tutorials, and engage in goal‑setting and college/career exploration.
Why join AVID?
Students in the AVID Elective learn how to stay organized, think critically, communicate effectively, and take ownership of their learning—all skills that set them up for success in high school and beyond.
Celebrating Success:
This year, our AVID students have excelled in collaborative tutorials, strengthened their academic leadership, and increased their readiness for college and career pathways. Their hard work and determination are making a positive impact across our campus.
We encourage families and students to explore the AVID Elective and learn how it can support long‑term academic success.
These amazing students have pushed themselves to achieve great excellence through hard work, dedication, and perseverance. We are so proud of all you’ve accomplished and can’t wait to see what you achieve next! 🌟📚
We wish all students, families, and staff a restful and enjoyable Spring Break! 🏖️
We look forward to welcoming students back on Tuesday, March 24, as we finish the school year strong.
Join us for evenings focused on college, university, and career planning for grades 8–12. Topics include graduation requirements, college & technical programs, scholarships & financial aid, career exploration, and more.
Choose your preferred date and location:
📍 Freedom High School
🗓️ Wednesday, March 25, 6–8 p.m.
📍 Morgan High School
🗓️ Wednesday, April 1, 6–8 p.m.
🥣✨ It’s National School Breakfast Week! HCPS celebrates the role of a nutritious start in students' learning, growth, and success. Thanks to our Student Nutrition Services team, students can enjoy free breakfast daily at school, helping them start the day focused and ready to excel. A big thank you to our cafeteria staff for fueling student achievement every day!
To support student health and safety, Hillsborough County Public Schools is installing vaping detectors in our high school bathrooms following a three-month pilot program at six campuses to identify the most effective devices.
This school year, schools have recorded more than 1,000 vaping-related referrals. The new devices will detect airborne vapor and immediately alert administrators. They do not record audio or video.
Reducing vaping and protecting student health remain a top priority. Together, we can help keep our campuses safe!
Congratulations 👏 National Merit Finalists!
These outstanding students represent less than one percent of high school seniors nationwide—an incredible achievement that reflects their dedication, perseverance, and academic excellence. We are especially proud that Strawberry Crest High School has the highest number of finalists among all Florida Public Schools.
Your hard work has truly set you apart, and you continue to raise the bar for excellence. Way to represent your school and community with pride! 🎉📚🌟
Our SROs protect campuses, mentor students, and build strong connections that make schools safer and more welcoming. Today, we thank them for their dedication and service to our community.
Don't forget to stop by the Florida Center near Gate 2 and check out the HCPS exhibit area. We also have many schools and students showing livestock in the TECO Arena. Please stop by and cheer them on!
Now in its 21st year, the high school competition empowers students through writing, public speaking, and storytelling. 📝
Congratulations to this year's finalists and winners!
1st Place: Zoey Tice, Plant City HS
2nd Place: Athena Wint, Lennard HS
3rd Place: Bailey Turnquist, Leto HS
Students' Choice Award: Bailey Turnquist, Leto HS
School buses safely transport thousands of students each day—replacing up to 36 cars on the road and making them the safest, most efficient ride to school. Thank you to our drivers and transportation staff for keeping every journey reliable and secure!
🚘 BEEP BEEP 🚘 The Hillsborough County Tax Collector's Office is hosting another Student Services and Licence Renewals Saturday on February 21 in Plant City! If you know a student ready to take their written or road skills test to get their driver's license, or a family member looking to renew their license, this is their chance.
Appointments are required. Families can call 813-635-5200 (option 5) to register and schedule an appointment for this event, which goes from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Please note: spots are limited and appointments cannot be made online.
For eligibility requirements and more information, please visit hillstax.org/saturday-license-services.
Honoring 100 years since Dr. Carter G. Woodson founded Negro History Week, we continue his legacy through learning, experiences, and partnerships that highlight African American history and contributions. Learn more: https://bit.ly/3OeFIo7
Pictured: The Armwoods, digital artwork by Molly McGiveney, 2025 Blake High School graduate.
This year, 25 high school Student Government Association groups competed in categories including Highest Overall Seat Belt Compliance, Most Improved Seat Belt Compliance, Best Poster, Best Public Service Announcement, and Best Overall Seat Belt Campaign. Thank you to all of our participants and partners, including the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and GEICO, and congratulations to our winners!
Youth ages 17 and under will receive free admission to the fair until 5 p.m. with an admission-paying parent or guardian 21 or older.
While you're at the fair, be sure to stop by the Florida Center and check out the HCPS exhibit area! We'll also have many schools and students showing livestock in the barns. Please stop by and cheer them on!
For more information on the Florida State Fair, please visit floridastatefair.com.
📚 Celebrate Literacy Week, Florida! Schools across the district are hosting exciting events that highlight the power of reading, creativity, and student voice. Our students are showing that literacy is more than reading—it’s creativity, voice, and expression.
Literacy is alive and thriving in our schools! 🎉📖
