FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TAMPA, FL (April 20, 2026) —Students from Hillsborough County Public Schools earned top honors at the 2026 Florida Technology Student Association (TSA) State Conference, showcasing excellence in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) competitions across the state.
The annual conference drew more than 2,000 student participants statewide. Students from Middleton High School, Wharton High School, Turner/Bartels K‑8, Rodgers Middle Magnet School and York Innovation Academy represented Hillsborough County, earning multiple first-, second- and third-place finishes in a wide range of events.
Middleton High School
State championships: Engineering Design; Drone UAV
Second place: Geospatial Technology; Prepared Presentation; STEM Mass Media
Third place: Software Development
Ranked 7th overall high school in Florida
Wharton High School
State championships: Future Technology & Engineering Teacher; Debating Technological Issues
Third place: Transportation Modeling
Turner/Bartels K‑8
State championships: Inventions & Innovations; Promotional Marketing
Second place: Video Game Design
Third place: Data Science and Analytics; Forensic Technology; Technology Bowl
Ranked 10th overall middle school in Florida
Rodgers Middle Magnet School
State championship: Robotics
Second place: Solar Racer
York Innovation Academy
Second place: Construction Challenge
Third place: Fashion Design; Mechanical Engineering
“Our students once again showed what’s possible when high expectations meet strong support and hands-on learning,” Superintendent Van Ayres said. “These results reflect the creativity, dedication and collaboration of our students and staff, and they highlight the strength of STEM education across Hillsborough County.”
With the state conference complete, Hillsborough TSA chapters are now preparing for the 2026 National TSA Conference in Washington, D.C., where students will represent the district on the national stage this summer.
To learn more about STEM at HCPS visit hillsboroughschools.org.
Turner Bartels K-8
Rodgers Middle School and Turner Bartels K-8
York K-8
Middleton & Wharton High Schools
