PCPS Proud

Superintendent Of Polk County Public SchoolsDear PCPS staff and families,

 

Welcome to 2026!

I hope students heading back into classrooms is helping everyone settle back into familiar routines. But remember each day of a new year is an opportunity to learn from our past and chart a new course for our future.

I wish everyone strength and courage not to focus on who they’ve been but, on the person, they want to be.

I always enjoy the quote often credited to Albert Einstein: “Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow.”

As we start our new calendar year, I have some exciting news to share.

Polk County’s graduation rate increased to 87.7% in 2025, up 5.5 percentage points from the year before. Polk’s latest graduation rate is the highest in recent memory, and likely a new record.

The grad rate for traditional PCPS high schools (excluding charter and alternative schools) was even better, rising to 92.7% last year for an annual gain of 5.2 points.

These are outstanding results that reflect the hard work of our students, teachers, school administrators and staff. We’ve used an intensive process to identify the most effective strategies and provide extra support to our students. Our district grade has increased to a B, and we’re now seeing historic success in our graduation rate. This is why we do what we do. Our community should be proud.

Florida’s statewide graduation rate climbed to 92.2% last year — also a new record.

Within Polk, 13 of 15 traditional PCPS high schools increased their grad rate in 2025. Some highlights:

  • Tenoroc High saw the greatest improvement, jumping 13.1 points annually to a graduation rate of 91.2%.
  • Haines City High increased to 91.2%, for a yearly gain of 10.5 points.
  • Kathleen High improved by 7.8 points to 86.8%.
  • Winter Haven High increased to 94.9%, up 7.6 points from the year before.
  • Fort Meade High posted an incredible 99% grad rate, an increase of 7.5 points.
  • In addition, Roosevelt Academy made tremendous progress, leaping 12.2 points to a grad rate of 91.7%.

There is still much work to be done, but we are clearly on the right pathway to success. I wish everyone all of the best as we begin our first steps together into 2026!

Frederick Heid
Superintendent

PCPS Proud Podcast

PCPS Podcast

Superintendent Heid sits down with Beth Cummings, senior director of Fine Arts, to discuss the importance of offering students opportunities to take music, theatre, dance and visual arts courses.

More than 70% of PCPS students participate in these classes. Fine arts help students develop their creativity, teamwork skills, critical thinking and other areas for long-term success in life.

Ms. Cummings also reflects on her years of service to PCPS students as she prepares for her retirement.

Watch the interview on YouTube.

Subscribe to the district’s YouTube channel (youtube.com/polkcountypublicschools). Remember to turn on your notifications. More PCPS Proud Podcast episodes will be coming in 2026!

District Highlights

Tax Referendum Image

Did You Know? Let’s Learn More About the 2026 School Ballot Initiative …

Polk County Public Schools is asking voters to consider approving a 1.0 ad valorem millage rate increase on the ballot.

Voters will ultimately decide whether to approve this referendum in November 2026.

This funding would support the recruitment and retention of school-based employees and protect critical student programs (fine arts, athletics, school safety, workforce development, and early childhood education).

To inform the public, each monthly PCPS Proud newsletter will explore a common question about the referendum.

Why did the school district approve placing a referendum on the ballot?

Quite simply: We are losing staff to surrounding school districts and the private sector. Florida’s teacher and support staff pay ranks among the lowest nationally, and Polk County is below the state average.

Together, this makes it hard to keep high-quality teachers, bus drivers, paraprofessionals, custodians, facilities/maintenance staff, administrators, and support service professionals in our schools.

Students learn best from skilled, consistent and supported staff. We cannot maintain that without competitive compensation.

Visit polkschoolsfl.com/referendum to learn more.

State of the District Annual Report Now Available!

State of the District Preview Image

Do you want to learn more about how the hard work and dedication of PCPS students and staff is leading to success?

Click here for a link to download the “State of the District” annual report for 2024-2025.

This report provides an in-depth look into the complexities of PCPS, the second largest employer in Polk County and one of the largest school districts in the nation.

You will learn many interesting facts, including:

  • PCPS serves more than 116,000 students in a vast geographic area encompassing more than 2,000 square miles – an area larger than the state of Rhode Island!
  • In a single day, our buses travel 56,000 miles and a total of 10 million miles in one year!
  • All PCPS schools continue to offer breakfast and lunch to all students at no cost. Last year, school nutrition professionals provided more than 5 million breakfast and 11 million lunch meals to students! That doesn’t even include after-school meals and snacks! Simply incredible!
  • Our school district continues to make significant strides toward academic excellence. PCPS recently earned a B grade from the Florida Department of Education — our first B since 2019-2020!
  • Our graduation rate reached a historic height in 2025, increasing to 87.7%, the highest rate in recent memory!

These are just a few of the many things you can learn more about in the State of the District annual report.

School Choice Application Window Now Open!

PCPS is now accepting school choice applications for the upcoming 2026-27 school year.

The School Choice Application Window will be open from Jan. 12 to Feb. 20.**

**NOTE: The School Choice Application Window does not include Controlled Open Enrollment, which begins in April 2026.**

The School Choice Application Window is an opportunity for families to apply for their students to attend a variety of PCPS programs, including:

  • Magnet/choice schools
  • Career academies (elementary, middle, and high school)
  • High School International Baccalaureate and Cambridge Programs
  • Summerlin Academy

Families must submit their applications online via Parent Portal.

Learn more about our school choice options by visiting: https://www.polkschoolsfl.com/schoolsandprograms/schooloptions.

School & Department Highlights
Brigham Bears love to give back to their community

Brigham Bears love to give back to their community! Students collect donations and volunteer to help others.

Frank E. Brigham Academy

At Brigham Academy, students excel in learning, character building, and global citizenship.

Brigham Bears consistently surpass state averages on standardized tests, earning Brigham Academy recognition as a state School of Excellence.

Students thrive in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and International Baccalaureate programs.

Hands-on STEM labs spark innovation through projects and design challenges. The IB framework fosters a wide array of learning approaches and the IB learner profile encourages students to become:

  • Inquirers
  • Knowledgeable
  • Thinkers
  • Communicators
  • Principled
  • Open-minded
  • Caring
  • Risk-takers
  • Balanced
  • Reflective

Family and community connections drive Brigham Academy’s success. Students regularly volunteer at soup kitchens, lead food drives, collect essentials for the homeless, and support local animal shelters.

Jere L. Stambaugh Middle

Stambaugh's National Junior Honor Society and Student Government future leaders recently toured Auburndale facilities to explore possible career opportunities.

Jere L. Stambaugh Middle

Jere L. Stambaugh Middle students recently got a special glimpse into possible career paths.

Student Government and National Junior Honor Society students explored exciting and interesting careers with the City of Auburndale!

During the three-day experience, students enjoyed job shadowing, resume writing, mock interviews, and touring the fire department, police department, utilities, and parks and recreation facilities.

They got to speak directly with Auburndale’s dedicated public servants, gaining valuable insight into various careers and thoroughly enjoying hands-on experience in various jobs.

Stambaugh’s Hounds sincerely thank the City of Auburndale and other dedicated community partners for making this enriching opportunity possible as well as many other ways they support students and staff!

Winter Haven Senior High

Last year, more than 12,000 middle and high students participated in PCPS athletic programs, including Winter Haven High’s Girls Basketball Team, which won its 6th state championship!

Winter Haven Senior High

Central Florida Aerospace Academy at Winter Haven Senior High is soaring to new heights!

Twenty-five CFAA students have received the James C. Ray Scholarships, which help pay for a private pilot's license. In addition, 13 students have already received their private pilot's license.

CFAA at Winter Haven also had a 94% pass rate on the Industry Certification Exam (UAS Safety Certification).

The school’s Cambridge Program has been very successful with students being accepted into Ivy League Schools and prestigious military academies as well as numerous other colleges and universities. One incredible incentive for students who earn their Cambridge Diploma is they receive 100% paid in-state tuition, which is huge financial help for families searching for ways to pay for college.

Winter Haven Senior High also works with the Public Education Partnership on many topics that support the school and community. Local businesses, nonprofits, and public agencies also assist the school’s various academies and programs. For example, Mannix Pools is a dedicated partner who supports both Winter Haven’s agriculture program and competitive barbecue team.

PCPS Athletics

Last year, more than 12,000 middle and high students participated in PCPS athletic programs, including Winter Haven High’s Girls Basketball Team, which won its 6th state championship!

PCPS Athletics

PCPS Athletics gives students the opportunity to play multiple sports, build teamwork, and grow as leaders.

Last year, more than 12,000 middle and high students participated in PCPS athletic programs. These programs promote physical and mental wellness and positive self-image.

Coaches serve as positive influences, guiding athletes to unlock their true potential. They help students learn discipline, resilience, and community connection. Athletic programs are more than just competition. They help shape students’ character, inspire growth and strive for success.

Our student-athletes work hard on and off the field. Last year, the total average student-athlete unweighted GPA in Polk County was 3.225.

Click here to see how each high school performed in 2024-25.

All schools in our district work together to host FHSAA State Championship events and FACA All Star games in our county.

Staff members for PCPS Athletics engage families and the community through parent meetings, social media updates, and partnerships with local organizations. They host special events, volunteer opportunities, and recognition nights to strengthen connections. Across schools, the department fosters collaboration through coaching clinics, professional development, and regular meetings with athletic directors.

PCPS Athletics is also responsible for maintaining unified standards for safety and eligibility. They also celebrate staff achievements and excellence. These efforts ensure transparency, build trust, and create a supportive environment for student-athletes, families, and district staff.

School Choice and Magnet Programs

An ambassador helps families learn about STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) concepts during a parent event at Fred. G. Garner Academy in Winter Haven.

School Choice & Magnet Programs

The purpose of magnet/choice schools is to attract students by offering an innovative and engaging thematic program. Magnet/choice schools offer specialized learning opportunities around an identified theme, enhance academic achievement, provide educational choice, foster innovation, and build community.

Magnet/choice schools allow students to engage in unique learning opportunities, such as maker-spaces, fabrication labs, and art studios.

Staff at magnet/choice schools also participate in local and out-of-state professional development opportunities to support the development of engaging, high-quality, creative instructional units and learn how to incorporate innovative teaching strategies, such as Problem-Based Learning, specialized technology training, Hattie's Visible Learning, Kagan, and Teaching with Poverty in Mind.

There are 19 magnet/choice schools within PCPS and their themes include:

  • Fine Arts
  • STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics)
  • Cambridge Program, an accelerated method of academic study offered solely through a division of the University of Cambridge
  • International Baccalaureate

The district’s newest magnet schools are:

  • Rosabelle W. Blake Academy (Lakeland)
  • James E. Stephens Academy (Bartow)
  • Fred. G. Garner Academy (Winter Haven)

Several magnet schools are seeking national recognition by Magnet Schools of America (MSA) for offering a high-quality educational program. The following schools have submitted evidence to support their application for Magnet School Merit Designation:

  • Rosabelle W. Blake Academy (Lakeland)
  • Bethune Academy (Haines City)
  • Daniel Jenkins Academy (Haines City)
  • James E. Stephens Academy (Bartow)
  • Fred. G. Garner Academy (Winter Haven)
  • Winston Academy of Engineering (Lakeland)

Congratulations to all our magnet schools for providing an exciting learning community for students.

Dr. Shelby Robertson

Dr. Shelby Robertson directs the school district’s multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS) to ensure resources help address students’ needs.

Foundational Learning & Educational Systems

PCPS uses data and research when determining how to best support students’ academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs.

This multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS) approach seeks to efficiently allocate resources to improve student learning by layering academic and behavioral supports that are most appropriate and helpful for students.

Dr. Shelby Robertson, the director of MTSS, works diligently with the implementation team to develop professional learning and resources for tiered instruction and interventions, targeting both academic and behavioral needs.

PCPS offers high-quality professional learning and practical support that empowers leaders and staff to make data-informed decisions, improve student outcomes, and respond to school needs with clarity and consistency.

“Through intentional collaboration across departments, we’ve aligned processes, language, and resources to ensure every school has the tools needed to implement an effective MTSS framework,” said Dr. Lori Allen, senior director of Foundational Learning & Educational Systems. “Together, we are building a unified system that meets the needs of all students.”

Program Highlights

Career Academies

PCPS students can join many different Career Academies that prepare them for future jobs, such as the culinary academy at George Jenkins High.

Career, Technical & Adult Education

PCPS offers dynamic Career Academies designed to prepare students for success in high-demand fields.

Some of the featured academies include medical, agriculture, culinary, business, engineering, television production, building construction, marketing, and many more!

These programs provide hands-on learning, industry certifications, and pathways to college and careers.

Apply Today! The Career Academy Choice Application window is open until Feb. 20. Don’t miss this opportunity to shape your future!

For a full list of Career Academies available at each school and instructions for how to apply go to the Career Academies website at https://www.polkschoolsfl.com/schoolsandprograms/careeracademies

Robert Harris

Robert Harris, a transition student, has been a huge help to the TASSEL Project, a year-round initiative collecting school supplies, hygiene products, clothing and other donated essential items to help students.

TASSEL Project

The TASSEL Project provides students with essential items, such as hygiene products, school supplies, and uniforms to remove barriers to attendance and support their success in school.

The program offers students access to immediate, practical resources and creates meaningful service opportunities for peers and transition students like Robert Harris, who helped with Joy Boxes this year.

Since 2016, TASSEL has supported thousands of students through generous community donations and continues to grow in impact each year.

If you would like to support this worthwhile initiative, you can contact Dr. Shannon Gillespie, assistant director of Student Services, at [email protected].

Dr. John Mann of the USF Gulf Coast Partnership

For the past 14 years, PCPS has collaborated with Dr. John Mann of the USF Gulf Coast Partnership to help future principals become great leaders who impact student and community outcomes.

Principal Intern Leadership Academy

The Principal Intern Leadership Academy (PILA) focuses on developing great leaders for our district.

PCPS collaborates with the USF Gulf Coast Partnership to make this academy possible. This state-approved, year-long program is now in its 14th successful year.

Designed for assistant principals, PILA provides a rigorous, job-embedded learning experience that prepares future principals to improve student outcomes, earn Florida School Principal Certification, and join the district’s pool of potential principal candidates.

The academy uses a project-based curriculum that urges interns to focus on improving strengths and learning to design and implement systems that support the whole child.

Principal interns complete the academy progressing as leaders on their journey from good to great. Each year, more than 17 assistant principals complete the academy, earning certification and improving their leadership skills to better serve students.

Staff and Student Shoutouts

Are you a PCPS employee and know of a colleague or student who accomplished something special or notable? Let us know! It may get added as a shout-out in an upcoming edition of PCPS Proud. PCPS employees can make submissions by completing a Microsoft Office form.

Frank E. Brigham Academy

  • Amy Li’s kindness, dedication, and vibrant spirit help Brigham Academy shine a little brighter every day.
  • Krissy Youngs, a devoted third grade teacher, inspires her students daily, is always willing to lend a helping hand, supports school events, and is cherished by her students.
Assistant Principal Timothy McKenna 

Winston Academy of Engineering

Winston Academy of Engineering's assistant principal, Timothy McKenna (pictured here as Nintendo hero Luigi), is retiring after more than 30 years of service with PCPS. Incredibly, he spent 22 of those years as Winston’s assistant principal! Thanks for all your dedication and leadership. Let's-a go!

Stambaugh Middle

  • Stambaugh Middle gives a shoutout to its National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) and Student Government. These students are already leaders on campus and are destined for greatness!
  • Let’s give a shoutout to Student Success Coach Jodi Seibert who manages the NJHS and Ingrid Rojas who oversees Student Government. Thanks for inspiring our future leaders!

Winter Haven Senior High

  • Kennadie Helms, a Cambridge Student, danced in "A Very Broadway Christmas" at two prestigious venues: The Mahaffey Theatre and The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.
  • Darcy Martin is an exceptional educator who has developed a highly effective system to help students pass the required graduation assessments, including the FAST Test, ACT, and SAT. In 2024-2025, she had a 96% pass rate in ELA and a 100% pass rate in math.

Bartow High

  • Huge thanks to Bartow Ford for always supporting Bartow High’s students. For the past two years, the local business has graciously donated $10,000 ($20,000 total) for Bartow High’s senior prom! Last year, Bartow Ford also donated an Escalade and Party Bus with drivers to two lucky winners to help raise funds for Bartow High’s upcoming seniors!

PCPS Athletics

  • PCPS Athletics has begun a new initiative to celebrate sportsmanship. Student-athletes can earn a PCPS Athletic Sportsmanship Coin for setting an outstanding example of what true sportsmanship looks like! Are you next?
  • Congratulations to Pam Lancaster, athletic director at Auburndale High, for being selected as Florida's representative for the National Athletic Director of the Year! Her leadership, dedication, and commitment to excellence make a tremendous impact on student-athletes and the entire community.

School Choice & Magnet Programs

  • Qvonda Birdsong Blackman, principal of Fred G. Garner Academy, has been nominated for Magnet Principal of the Year. Dr. Shaime Cortes Vega, a teacher at James E. Stephens Academy, has been nominated for Magnet Teacher of the Year. Congratulations to these magnet school educators!

Principal Intern Leadership Academy

  • Dru Gainey, principal of Clarence Boswell Elementary, is a proud member of the 2023–24 PILA-USF GCP Cohort 12. In his leadership role, he is committed to strengthening instructional practices, fostering meaningful collaboration, and empowering his school community to reach new levels of success.
  • We want to recognize and thank Dr. John Mann of the USF Gulf Coast Partnership for inspiring Principal Intern Leadership Academy (PILA) participants to become innovative leaders who consistently demonstrate a growth mindset.

School Board Updates

Below are just a few major decisions or actions from the most recent School Board meeting (Sept. 30). You can watch all School Board meetings and work sessions on the district’s YouTube channel: youtube.com/polkcountypublicschools

BizTown (JA Discovery Center) at Tenoroc High — The School Board approved Rodda Construction's Guaranteed Maximum Price for the building portion of this project. (Timestamp - 01:06:40)

Reminders

  • January is Mental Wellness Month! It’s the perfect time to prioritize taking care of ourselves and the people we love. Mental wellness matters for everyone - students, staff, and families. It grows when we nurture both our minds and our bodies. Building healthy habits together can strengthen resilience and bring families closer. Consider taking a walk together after dinner or hosting a family game night. Strong minds and strong bodies help students learn and grow!

  • Polk County Public Schools wants to hear from you! Our school district has launched a new online survey to help us learn how we can better serve our students, employees, their families, and the entire community. We encourage everyone to visit and fill out this survey: polkschoolsfl.com/survey

  • Spanish-speaking families can always find great local news and Superintendent Heid’s latest column by reading ¡Viva Polk! magazine. Visit vivapolk.com to access the latest issue.

  • Early dismissal for students will take place on Friday, Jan. 16.

  • No School – Monday, Jan. 19 (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day)

  • The School Board will hold a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 27, and a board meeting at 5 p.m.

  • The School Board will hold a work session at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 10.

  • Early dismissal for students will take place on Friday, Feb. 13.

  • No School – Monday, Feb. 16 (Presidents Day)

  • School Choice Application Window Deadline – Friday, Feb. 20.

  • The School Board will hold a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 24, and a board meeting at 5 p.m.

Empyee Assistance Program Banner

QR Code for Employee Assistant Program

PCPS employees can scan the code for more information or to access the important resources of the Employee Assistance Program.

Managing Stress:
You’ve got a lot on your plate. But you’re not alone. The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can help you manage stress.

You and your household (including children up to age 26 living away from home) have up to 7 counseling sessions per concern, per person. Sessions are free and confidential. You do not have to be on the PCPS Health Plan to use this benefit.

Did you know you can use your sessions in person, by phone, by text, or through televideo? You can also call 24 hours a day for in-the-moment emotional well-being support.

Talkspace virtual therapy allows you to connect with a counselor by text message and live video. Send secure text messages to your counselor, who will respond within one working day up to five days a week. A week of texting counts as one session. You can also schedule to meet online for 30-minute televideo sessions.

To learn more or find a therapist, call 1-800-272-7252 or go online to ResourcesForLiving.com | Username: PCS | Access code: PCS

Visit the PCPS Employee Wellness webpage or more information.

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