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Graduate wearing blue robe laughing at the confetti
Class of 2025 Graduation Dates Announced
11/05/2024
The graduation schedule is now available for the Polk County Public Schools Class of 2025.
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Margaret Birge from Bartow High!
Focused on Excellence: Margaret Birge
11/01/2024
Focused on Excellence is back for 2024-25! And our first winner is … Margaret Birge from Bartow High!
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Polk County School Board Sign Logo
School Board Emergency Work Session Scheduled for Nov. 1, 2024
10/31/2024
The Polk County School Board will have an emergency work session at 9 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 1.
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Ribbon on McLaughlin Academy Gymnasium
PCPS Cuts Ribbon on McLaughlin Academy Gymnasium
10/31/2024
We gathered at McLaughlin Academy of Excellence today to formally cut the ribbon on the school’s new gymnasium.
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PCPS Announces Storm Make-Up Plans
10/24/2024
I hope this message finds you safe and well as we continue to recover from the recent hurricane, and its impact on our community. We recognize that this has been a challenging time for everyone, and we sincerely appreciate your resilience and understanding as we work to get back on track with the school year.
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Principal of the Year
PCPS Announces 2024-25 Principals of the Year
10/23/2024
Polk County Public Schools is proud to announce our district’s principals of the year!
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24th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Challenge Graphic
Annual MLK Essay Challenge Open to Polk Students; Deadline is Nov. 13
10/23/2024
Polk County Public Schools and the Board of County Commissioners are inviting students to participate in the county’s annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Essay Challenge.
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PCPS Schools Ready to Reopen Wednesday
10/15/2024
I am pleased to share that all of our schools now have power, and our major cleanup efforts are complete. We are incredibly thankful for the hard work and dedication of the countless employees working for our power companies.
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PCPS Schools Remain Closed Monday (Oct. 14) & Tuesday (Oct. 15), Reopen on Wednesday (Oct. 16)
10/13/2024
However, our schools must remain closed on Monday, Oct. 14, and Tuesday, Oct. 15. We expect to reopen our campuses to students on Wednesday, Oct. 16.
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Shelter Information
Hurricane Milton Shelter Sites and Information
10/10/2024
In response to Hurricane Milton, Polk County Public Schools has been directed by county emergency officials to activate certain schools to serve as storm shelters for those evacuating their homes. IMPORTANT: NOT ALL PCPS SCHOOL SITES WILL BE SERVING AS STORM SHELTERS. ONLY THE SCHOOLS LISTED ARE BEING ACTIVATED. DO NOT PROCEED TO A SCHOOL UNTIL YOU CHECK THE LIST AND CONFIRM IT WILL OPEN AND OPERATE AS A SHELTER SITE.
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Storm Information
URGENT: Shelter Donations Clarification
10/09/2024
Some people have expressed that they want to drop off various donated items to our shelters. However, due to specific health, safety, and logistical protocols that we must follow in managing our shelters, we are unable to accept donated items at this time. While the intentions are greatly appreciated, we must ensure that all items used in the shelters meet strict hygiene and safety standards, especially in the aftermath of a storm when the health and well-being of all shelter occupants is our top priority. We encourage those who still wish to contribute to consider other ways to support our efforts. Donations to trusted disaster relief organizations, volunteering with approved agencies, or simply staying informed and sharing accurate information are all vital forms of assistance during this time.
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Storm Information
Telehealth Services Remain Available to PCPS Families
10/09/2024
With the approach of Hurricane Milton, we wanted to remind PCPS families that our telehealth program is still there to help with your healthcare needs. During such times, it is very common for children to experience anxiety, fear, sadness and mental stress. Our telehealth program is an option available to all PCPS students and their families through a partnership with Hazel Health, a telehealth provider for K-12 schools.
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Storm Information
Storm Update: PCPS Schools/Offices Closed Tuesday through Friday
10/08/2024
Please be advised that all PCPS schools and offices will remain closed through Friday, Oct. 11, in response to this storm. If you need to seek shelter, visit polkschoolsfl.com/shelters for locations and more shelter information.
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News Release Logo
School Board Work Session & Board Meeting on Oct. 8 Cancelled in Response to Hurricane Milton
10/07/2024
Please be advised that the Polk County School Board work session and board meeting scheduled for tomorrow (Tuesday, Oct. 8) have been cancelled in response to Hurricane Milton.
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Polk Together Family Engagement Conferences - October 19, 2024
Family Engagement Conference Rescheduled to Oct. 19 at Sleepy Hill Middle
10/07/2024
Polk County Public Schools is rescheduling this weekend’s Polk Together Family Engagement Conference in response to Hurricane Milton.
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PCPS Announces District 6 Finalists for 2024-25 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
PCPS Announces District 6 Finalists for 2024-25 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
10/01/2024
PCPS has recognized finalists from all seven districts, and the overall winners will be announced at the Inspire Awards presented by MIDFLORIDA Credit Union. The Inspire Awards will be held on Nov. 8 at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland. The Polk Education Foundation and PCPS’ Department of Public Relations & Strategic Partnerships collaborate to present this annual event.
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College Application Awareness Logo
PCPS Hosting College Application Sessions in October
09/30/2024
PCPS is hosting FREE workshops across Polk County next month to help students and families with the Common Application.
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Teach of the Year and School-Related Employee of the Year for District 3
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Think Before You Post! Threats Carry Serious Consequences.
Superintendent's Safety Message
09/18/2024
Dear Parents and Guardians, I am writing to emphasize our district's unwavering commitment to maintaining a safe and secure environment for all students and staff.
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Five PCPS Students Announced as National Merit Semifinalists
Five PCPS Students Announced as National Merit Semifinalists for 2024-25
09/11/2024
Five students from Polk County Public Schools are among this year’s semifinalists for National Merit Scholarships.
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District 5 Venecia Arias-Gowdy, Teacher of the Year finalist and Alexia Gardner, School-Related Employee of the Year finalist
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Mia Holden, Teacher of the Year finalist, ESE inclusion teacher, Brigham Academy and Ervie Louis, School-Related Employee of the Year finalist, paraeducator, Jewett School of the Arts
PCPS Announces District 4 Finalists for 2024-25 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
09/09/2024
District 4 Finalist Mia Holden, Teacher of the Year finalist, ESE inclusion teacher, Brigham Academy and Ervie Louis, School-Related Employee of the Year finalist, paraeducator, Jewett School of the Arts
Read More about PCPS Announces District 4 Finalists for 2024-25 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
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PCPS Announces District 2 Finalists for 2024-25 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
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Congratulations to our next group of finalists for the 2024-25 Polk County Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year.
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PCPS Announces District 7 Finalists for 2024-25 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
PCPS Announces District 7 Finalists for 2024-25 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
08/27/2024
Awards season is here! Congratulations to our first group of finalists for the 2024-25 Polk County Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year.
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IB Bartow Celebrates 94% Diploma Pass Rate
IB Bartow Celebrates 94% Diploma Pass Rate
08/21/2024
IB Bartow's Class of 2024 achieved a 94% pass rate for their IB diplomas, which was up from 85% the year before. That's a big deal!
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Disney Goofy taking a picture with a teacher at Crystal Lake Elementary
Disney Makes Surprise Visit to Crystal Lake Elementary
08/16/2024
Disney icons Goofy and Pluto recently visited the school and handed out tickets to Walt Disney World!
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Polk County School Board Sign
Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for August 2024
08/12/2024
The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 13, followed by a regular monthly meeting at 5 p.m.
Read More about Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for August 2024
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Focused on Excellence: Alfred Williams
Focused on Excellence: Alfred Williams
08/09/2024
Alfred is the daytime custodian at Lewis Anna Woodbury, and has worked there for 30 years! He's considered an "all-around hero" for the way he assists staff and keeps the school in good condition.
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Focused on Excellence: Raquel “Rocky” Sanchez
Focused on Excellence: Raquel “Rocky” Sanchez
08/08/2024
Rocky is a preventive recording specialist with our Maintenance Services department, in the Winter Haven 5 service center.
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Yellow School Buses in a line
Transportation Call Center Now Open
08/07/2024
The PCPS transportation call center is now LIVE!
Read More about Transportation Call Center Now Open
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Side of Bella Citta with covered area and new expansion
Bella Citta Debuts New Middle School Facilities
08/07/2024
Bella Citta opened as an elementary school in 2021-22, and the school has been expanding to a K-8 to accommodate the rapidly growing Davenport community.
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Focused on Excellence: Julie Noel
Focused on Excellence: Julie Noel
08/06/2024
Julie was a literacy curriculum specialist for our Teaching and Learning department, and she just retired earlier this summer.
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Focused on Excellence: Mandy Matha
Focused on Excellence: Mandy Matha
08/02/2024
Mandy is the lead nighttime custodian at Caldwell Elementary. She helps keep the campus looking good, but says there are other aspects to her job that are just as important.
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Focused on Excellence: Vickie Griffis
Focused on Excellence: Vickie Griffis
08/01/2024
Vickie is a budget analyst with our Learning Support division. She's also known for her work to secure resources and assistance for high school seniors who are experiencing homeless.
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Focused on Excellence: Regina Dixon
Focused on Excellence: Regina Dixon
07/31/2024
Regina is the lead daytime custodian at PCPS’ Jim Miles Professional Development Center.
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Focused on Excellence Winner Antwon Carter poses for photo.
Focused on Excellence: Antwon Carter
07/30/2024
Congratulations to our next winner: Antwon Carter from George Jenkins High!
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Photo of graduates looking up as confetti falls down
PCPS Hosts Summer Commencement
07/30/2024
The event recognizes seniors from across the district who have worked hard during the summer to fulfill missing requirements for graduation.
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Welcome to 3DE Lake Region High School with an image of Lake Region High School
PCPS Expanding 3DE Program to Lake Region High
07/29/2024
The program, created by Junior Achievement, connects schools and business partners to provide students with real-world knowledge and experiences. Students get to participate in business case studies and develop solutions for use in various industries.
Read More about PCPS Expanding 3DE Program to Lake Region High
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Polk County School Board Sign
Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for July 2024
07/22/2024
The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 23, followed by a regular monthly meeting at 5 p.m.
Read More about Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for July 2024
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Focused on Excellence: Virginia Stiefel
Focused on Excellence: Virginia Stiefel
07/18/2024
Virginia is a kindergarten teacher at Chain of Lakes.
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Focused on Excellence: Brianna Turner
Focused on Excellence: Brianna Turner
07/18/2024
Brianna teaches second grade at Stephens Academy.
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Focused on Excellence: Sherry Scott
Focused on Excellence: Sherry Scott
07/17/2024
Sherry is the culinary arts teacher at George Jenkins High, serving there for about 10 years.
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Focused on Excellence: Katelin Padden
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Focused on Excellence: Lauren Nettles
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Focused on Excellence: Julia Hedman
Focused on Excellence: Julia Hedman
07/11/2024
This is the third group of winners for 2023-24. Julia is an ESE teacher with our Hospital Homebound program, which serves students dealing with extended medical conditions.
Read More about Focused on Excellence: Julia Hedman
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Storm Information
Hurricane Message for PCPS Families and Staff
07/08/2024
Polk County Public Schools is prepared to serve should storms arise and threaten our community, or neighboring counties.
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Kimberly Crandall from Bartow Middle!
Focused on Excellence: Kimberly Crandall
06/20/2024
And the next Focused on Excellence winner is … Kimberly Crandall from Bartow Middle!
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Ann Tankson Standing in front of the Ann Tankson Media Center Sign
Sleepy Hill Middle Honors Ann Tankson
06/19/2024
Today we gathered at Sleepy Hill Middle to celebrate a very special lady: Ann Tankson.
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Caitlin is an English language arts teacher at Mulberry High.
Focused on Excellence: Caitlin Craft
06/17/2024
Caitlin is an English language arts teacher at Mulberry High.
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School Board Meeting on May 14 2024
PCPS Seeking Nominations for District Advisory Council for 24-25
06/13/2024
This is an opportunity to get involved in your local school system, and support our critical mission to provide a high-quality education to all students, preparing them for successful lives beyond the classroom.
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Polk County School Board sign
Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for June 2024
06/06/2024
The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 11, followed by a regular monthly meeting at 5 p.m.
Read More about Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for June 2024
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National Merit Scholarships logo
Five IB Bartow Students Receive National Merit Scholarships
06/05/2024
Five students from International Baccalaureate Bartow have been announced as National Merit Scholarship winners.
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Polk Schools News Release Logo
PCPS Sending Out Magnet School Acceptances June 11
06/05/2024
PCPS will conduct another drawing for magnet school applications, and send out acceptances on Tuesday, June 11.
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Children waiting to get on the Books Bridge Bus
PCPS Books Bridge Bus Debuts New Look
06/04/2024
Today the bus visited Oasis Academy, where we unveiled a colorful new design created by students from Harrison School for the Arts.
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Pink background with Summer Breakspot in white letters
Summer BreakSpot Provides Free Meals to Polk Children
06/03/2024
Even though school is out, children in Polk County can receive free meals through the statewide Summer BreakSpot program.
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Polk County School Board News Release Logo
FLDOE Seeking Parent Input for 2024 ESE Survey
06/03/2024
Please complete the following survey for your child with an Individual Educational Plan (IEP) or an Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP).
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Polk County Public Schools News Release
Controlled Open Enrollment Reopens June 3
05/29/2024
PCPS is taking more applications for Controlled Open Enrollment (COE) for the upcoming 2024-25 school year. The application window will reopen from Monday, June 3 through Monday, Aug. 5.
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News Release Graphic
Change in Backpack Policy for Remainder of Current School Year
05/23/2024
Again, this change in backpack policy is only for the remainder of this current school year. The last day of school for students is Thursday, May 30.
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PCPS Bus Driver Shirley Walling Celebrates 50 Years of Service
PCPS Bus Driver Shirley Walling Celebrates 50 Years of Service
05/17/2024
Shirley was honored yesterday during the Youth and Adult Leadership graduation ceremony hosted by the Northeast Polk Chamber of Commerce.
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Polk County School Board SIgn
Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for May 2024
05/10/2024
The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 14, followed by a regular monthly meeting at 5 p.m.
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Lake Region High JROTC Seniors
Lake Region High JROTC Seniors Have Record Scholarship Total
05/09/2024
This year, the Marine Corps JROTC seniors have racked up an astounding $6.4 million in full-ride scholarships. That includes military scholarships worth up to $200,000 each, and a host of additional offers from universities across the nation.
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Focused on Excellence: Theron Tucker
Focused on Excellence: Theron Tucker
05/09/2024
It’s time for our next Focused on Excellence winner: PCPS social worker Theron Tucker!
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Kathleen High School Graduation Class
PCPS Graduation Procedures for the Class of 2024
05/09/2024
Graduation season is here, and the first ceremonies for PCPS schools will begin later this month.
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Nicholas Kieffer Wins National Merit Scholarship
IB Bartow’s Nicholas Kieffer Wins National Merit Scholarship
05/08/2024
Kieffer was one of 2,500 winners announced today by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), out of a pool of more than 15,000 finalists nationwide.
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Pink and blue bags
PCPS Celebrates Hardworking Grads at Hearth Luncheon
05/08/2024
Yesterday we gathered with more than 60 seniors from the Class of 2024. Each has grown up experiencing some degree of homelessness, and Hearth provides assistance to those students and their families.
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6 Project Search Graduates wearing gray graduation gowns
Celebrating the Graduates of Project SEARCH
05/07/2024
The program serves adult PCPS students with disabilities, allowing them to gain work experience and develop valuable skills in a variety of industries.
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Focused on Excellence: Albert Smith
Focused on Excellence: Albert Smith
05/03/2024
It's a Focused on Excellence Friday! Please join us in congratulating Albert Smith from Ridge Technical College.
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Brigham students working with computers
PCPS Student Devices Available for Summer
04/30/2024
Students can take their PCPS-issued devices home this summer with family permission.
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Focused on Excellence: Adam Roberts
Focused on Excellence: Adam Roberts
04/30/2024
It's time for Focused on Excellence, and the next winner is ... Adam Roberts from Lewis Anna Woodbury Elementary!
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PCPS Announces Volunteers of the Year Medals
PCPS Announces Volunteers of the Year
04/29/2024
These dedicated men and women provide invaluable service to our schools. By giving their time, they help our students and staff reach their full potential. Simply put, we could not do what we do without volunteers.
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News Release Logo
Controlled Open Enrollment, Magnet School Acceptances Going out May 6
04/25/2024
COE allows families to apply for any PCPS school (excluding magnet schools) that still has seats available for 2024-25.
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Focused on Excellence: Nina Owens
Focused on Excellence: Nina Owens
04/25/2024
Nina is a routing specialist for our Transportation department. Colleagues say she is always willing to go the extra mile (pun intended) to ensure that students have transportation arranged for field trips, sporting events and everything in between — even on short notice.
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Polk County Public Schools News Release
Mental Health Support Survey for PCPS Parents
04/24/2024
We are interested in your opinions regarding school-based mental health supports, even if your child has never used them. Your input on this topic is very important.
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Focused on Excellence: Jinnell Lane
Focused on Excellence: Jinnell Lane
04/19/2024
Jinnell is the dean at Alta Vista. She has been praised for the way she assists teachers and handles student discipline issues with fairness. Colleagues say she has a positive impact on her school.
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Focused on Excellence: Danielle Hippeli
Focused on Excellence: Danielle Hippeli
04/17/2024
Once again, employees were asked to nominate their colleagues from various departments for a chance to receive some great prizes and be recognized on our communication channels. This is the second group of winners for 2023-24.
Read More about Focused on Excellence: Danielle Hippeli
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Team Polk Repeats as Academic Challenge Champions
Team Polk Repeats as Academic Challenge Champions
04/15/2024
Team Polk, comprised of public and private high school students, finished first in Division One, which includes the state’s largest school districts and is generally regarded as the event’s toughest division.
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PCPS BBQ Teams
PCPS Teams Smoke the Competition at Sonny’s BBQ Event
04/15/2024
Students from Bartow, Fort Meade and Frostproof high schools traveled to Wekiva High last weekend for the inaugural Jr. Pitmaster Competition hosted by Sonny's BBQ.
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Focused on Excellence: Kamyra Farnell
Focused on Excellence: Kamyra Farnell
04/12/2024
Once again, employees were asked to nominate their colleagues from various departments for a chance to receive some great prizes and be recognized on our communication channels. This is the second group of winners for 2023-24.
Read More about Focused on Excellence: Kamyra Farnell
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Haitian Academy Festival in Winter Haven Flyer
PCPS Invites Families to Haitian Parent Academy on Thursday, April 25
04/10/2024
PCPS families are invited to a free event — the Haitian Parent Academy — organized by the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) department.
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Madhu Thomas Named STEM Teacher of the Year
Madhu Thomas Named STEM Teacher of the Year
04/10/2024
Thomas has worked at HCHS since 2011, where she teaches AP and IB chemistry. Administrators say she has been an outstanding educator, mentor and role model.
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Polk County School Board Sign
Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for April 2024
04/09/2024
The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 23, followed by a regular monthly meeting at 5 p.m.
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Image of Caldwell Kindergarten Class
PCPS Kindergarten Enrollment and Camps Available for 2024-25
04/09/2024
Do you have an incoming kindergartner joining PCPS for the 2024-25 school year? Here’s some information to help you out
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Solar Eclipse April 8
PCPS Procedures for the Eclipse on April 8
04/05/2024
We expect the eclipse to impact Polk beginning at 1:44 p.m. and ending at 4:15 p.m.
Read More about PCPS Procedures for the Eclipse on April 8
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Focused on Excellence: Thomas Cummins
Focused on Excellence: Thomas Cummins
04/04/2024
Once again, employees were asked to nominate their colleagues from various departments for a chance to receive some great prizes and be recognized on our communication channels. This is the second group of winners for 2023-24.
Read More about Focused on Excellence: Thomas Cummins
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Polk County Breaking News Logo
All PCPS After-School Activities Canceled for April 3
04/03/2024
Weather forecasts are calling for possible inclement conditions this afternoon.
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Camp Earlybird Logo
PCPS Offers Camp Early Bird for Incoming Kindergartners
04/01/2024
This free program is being offered at locations throughout Polk County. Camp Early Bird provides fun learning activities for incoming kindergarten students to help set them up for success in school.
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Focused on Excellence: Christy Carrillo
Focused on Excellence: Christy Carrillo
03/26/2024
And the next Focused on Excellence winner is … Christy Carrillo from Fort Meade Middle-Senior High!
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Polk County School Board New Release Logo
Controlled Open Enrollment Begins April 1
03/25/2024
Polk County Public Schools is moving forward with Controlled Open Enrollment (COE) for the 2024-25 school year.
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New Winter Haven Field
Winter Haven High Debuts New Stadium Upgrades
03/25/2024
The project — made possible by a partnership with the City of Winter Haven — included resurfacing the track, as well as removing the old football field and installing new artificial turf. The effort cost more than $1.8 million.
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Illustration of student receiving a vaccination from a doctor while parent comforts her
Free Immunization Events Available for Polk County Children
03/22/2024
If you would like your child to receive immunization, please come to one of several clinics being held throughout Polk County. The complete schedule can be found below.
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Mom and Son at the 2024 About Face Awards
PCPS Students Recognized for Improvement at About-Face Awards
03/22/2024
It can take a lot of work to turn your life around, and we think that’s worth celebrating.
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Sharon Buttorff Focused on Excellence
Focused on Excellence: Sharon Buttorff
03/20/2024
Sharon is the manager here at the district office cafeteria.
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Polk County School Board Sign
Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for March 2024
03/19/2024
The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 26, followed by a regular monthly meeting at 5 p.m.
Read More about Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for March 2024
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Focused on Excellence: Alice Stinson
Focused on Excellence: Alice Stinson
03/08/2024
Let's sneak in another Focused on Excellence before spring break! Our next winner is: Alice Stinson from South Pointe Elementary!
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Polk County School News Release Logo
School Choice Acceptance Notices Going Out March 18
03/07/2024
If your child is accepted, you will receive an email with further instructions, as well as an alert in Parent Portal. If your application is not accepted, you will see a “waiting” status in Parent Portal.
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Southwest Middle School Ribbon Cutting
PCPS Completes Modernization Project at Southwest Middle
03/05/2024
We gathered in Lakeland yesterday evening to celebrate the completion of Southwest’s rebuilt campus. Southwest was founded in 1956 and PCPS began the modernization project in September 2022, essentially creating a new school. Students have been attending classes in the new facilities since January.
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Student playing and sorting blocks
Applications for 2024-25 Head Start, VPK Now Live
03/04/2024
Applications are available online through polkschoolsfl.com/earlychildhood. Once your application has been submitted, PCPS staff will contact you to complete the process.
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Photo of Focused on Excellence Winner Barbara Ritacco
Focused on Excellence: Barbara Ritacco
03/01/2024
It's Focused on Excellence Friday, join us as we celebrate Barbara Ritacco from Loughman Oaks Elementary!
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Picture of Stephanie Carte Standing in front of a school
PCPS Adds ESE Parent Liaison
02/29/2024
Stephanie Carte recently joined our district as an Exceptional Student Education (ESE) parent liaison. The new position is focused on helping families navigate our school system, and providing resources to improve student achievement.
Read More about PCPS Adds ESE Parent Liaison
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3 Students holding signs Love the Bus
PCPS Hiring Bus Drivers, Come Ride With Us!
02/28/2024
PCPS has an immediate need for bus drivers, and our school board just approved a pay increase.
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Student standing with two teachers from Winter Haven High School
WHHS Cambridge Student Earns “Top in Country” Award
02/27/2024
“He has an extreme passion for computer science,” said Nikki Jordan, head of the Cambridge program at WHHS. “He’s an amazing student and a fantastic young man.”
Read More about WHHS Cambridge Student Earns “Top in Country” Award
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A picture of Sabrina Reel infron of the PCPS Logo
Focused on Excellence: Sabrina Reel
02/23/2024
Sabrina is an administrative secretary with our Early Childhood department, which oversees programs like VPK and Head Start.
Read More about Focused on Excellence: Sabrina Reel
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Education Town Hall Logo
PCPS Announces Town Halls to Discuss School Start Times
02/23/2024
The new law will require school districts, beginning in 2026-27, to start middle school classes after 8 a.m., and high school classes at 8:30 a.m. or later.
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Three Students standing together.
Mission: Transition Info for PCPS Students of All Ages
02/22/2024
Mission: Transition programs are designed to assist students and families as they make the jump from elementary to middle school, and then progress to high school.
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Focused on Excellence: Alex McLuckey
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Lawton Childs MathCount Team Wins Again
Lawton Chiles Middle Team Wins MathCounts Again
02/15/2024
Congratulations to the winning LCMA students: Johan Bijiyos, the event’s top individual competitor for the second consecutive year; Asher Brickhouse, Liam Maloney and Arya Patel.
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Bartow IB Winning Award
Bartow High Team Wins High School Academic Tournament
02/15/2024
The Bartow High Team was crowned champions on Tuesday evening, after the final round of the 40th annual tournament hosted at the Bartow Civic Center. IB Bartow finished ahead of All Saints Academy and Harrison School for the Arts.
Read More about Bartow High Team Wins High School Academic Tournament
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Sunshine State Scholars Graphic Logo
PCPS Announces Sunshine State Scholars for 2024
02/09/2024
Congratulations to our Sunshine State Scholars for 2024: Sahil Ande from International Baccalaureate Bartow, Jason Bueno Iduyan from Winter Haven High, and Juan Quintero from Frostproof High.
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Focused on Excellence: Rachel McDowell
Focused on Excellence: Rachel McDowell
02/09/2024
It's a Focused on Excellence Friday, and our next winner is ... Rachel McDowell, from the PCPS Recruitment and Teacher Engagement team!
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Gloria Jones Prepares to Say Goodbye
Alturas Elementary’s Gloria Jones Prepares to Say Goodbye
02/08/2024
After an extraordinary 45-year career, Jones is preparing to leave the cafeteria behind. She was once an Alturas student herself and has served multiple generations of children at this “hidden gem” of a school.
Read More about Alturas Elementary’s Gloria Jones Prepares to Say Goodbye
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Congratulations to PCPS alum and Grammy Award winner Jonathan Gautier!
PCPS Alum Wins Grammy Award
02/06/2024
Congratulations to PCPS alum and Grammy Award winner Jonathan Gautier!
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South Pointe Students on a Bus
PCPS Celebrates “Love the Bus” Month
02/02/2024
February is Love the Bus month, an annual, nationwide event that gives us time to focus on the essential service provided by our school bus drivers and transportation staff.
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Focused on Excellence: Dr. Nikeshia Leatherwood
Focused on Excellence: Dr. Nikeshia Leatherwood
02/02/2024
Happy Friday, let's celebrate our next Focused on Excellence winner: Dr. Nikeshia Leatherwood from Citrus Ridge: A Civics Academy!
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International Society for Key Women Educators
Twenty PCPS Teachers Named “Rising Stars” for 2023-24
01/29/2024
Twenty new PCPS teachers have made this year’s list of “Rising Stars” by Delta Kappa Gamma.
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next Focused on Excellence winner: Stephen Klupp from Chain of Lakes Elementary
Focused on Excellence: Stephen Klupp
01/25/2024
next Focused on Excellence winner: Stephen Klupp from Chain of Lakes Elementary
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Abdel Rodriguez is making history
JSA History Teacher Receives Special Commendation
01/24/2024
Rodriguez, who teaches history at Jewett School of the Arts, was visited by members of the Winter Haven chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR).
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Tamika is a paraeducator at Mulberry Middle next Focused on Excellence winner
Focused on Excellence: Tamika Kelly
01/17/2024
Tamika is a paraeducator at Mulberry Middle next Focused on Excellence winner.
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District News Release Logo
PCPS Volunteers Needed to Review Challenged Books
01/16/2024
Polk County Public Schools is seeking volunteers to serve as book reviewers for school library books that have been challenged and retained at the school level, and appealed to the district level for further review.
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MLK Essay Challenge
Winners Announced for 23rd Annual MLK Essay Challenge
01/12/2024
Congratulations to the winners of Polk County’s 23rd annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Challenge!
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Lakeland Highlands Middle Students Advocate for Touchless Water Fountains
Lakeland Highlands Middle Students Advocate for Touchless Water Fountains
01/12/2024
Superintendent Heid visited Lakeland Highlands Middle to recognize two students, Kiana Imperial and Julie Warren, who are making a splash in our district.
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Robert J. Fisher
PCPS Remembers Robert J. Fisher
01/11/2024
Fisher taught English, speech and drama at Haines City High, where the auditorium is named in his honor. He also went on to serve as our district’s supervisor of language arts.
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LGHS Teacher
LGHS Teacher Shares Experience as a Foster Parent
01/10/2024
We love this video spotlighting Maria and Levi Hargrove -- Levi is an economics teacher and football and wrestling coach at Lake Gibson High
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Storm Information
PCPS After-School Activities and Sports Canceled Tuesday, Jan. 9
01/08/2024
All PCPS after-school activities and sports are being canceled tomorrow (Tuesday, Jan. 9)
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Polk County School Board Sign
Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for January 2024
01/05/2024
The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 9. The board will also have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 23, followed by a regular monthly meeting at 5 p.m.
Read More about Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for January 2024
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District News Release Logo
PCPS School Choice Application Window Opens Monday, Jan. 8
01/03/2024
Polk County Public Schools will begin accepting school choice applications on Monday, Jan. 8, for the upcoming 2024-25 school year.
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District News Release Logo
Polk County Public Schools and AFSCME Union Reach Tentative Agreement
12/15/2023
Polk County Public Schools (PCPS) and the American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 2227 union reached a tentative agreement on Dec. 14 for the 2023-2024 salary and benefits package totaling an increase of $4 million.
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Millie Flores
Focused on Excellence: Millie Flores
12/14/2023
Millie is the registrar at Horizons Elementary. She says she always taught her daughters to do their best in life.
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Oscar J. Pope Elementary
Bezos Academy to Open at Oscar J. Pope Elementary in 2025
12/13/2023
Polk County Public Schools has announced that a new tuition-free, full-day preschool will soon be coming to Lakeland.
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Extra Care Getting There Logo
An Important Message to Help Protect Students
12/11/2023
As Polk County grows our roads are busier than ever, putting student pedestrians and cyclists at risk.
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The School Board of Polk County Sign
Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for December 2023
12/07/2023
Polk County School Board will have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 12
Read More about Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for December 2023
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PCPS Library Opt-Out System Available Jan. 2-15
PCPS Library Opt-Out System Available Jan. 2-15
12/06/2023
Polk County Public Schools will open our library opt-out system from Jan. 2-15, 2024 for the spring semester.
Read More about PCPS Library Opt-Out System Available Jan. 2-15
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Focused on Excellence: Autumn Ashley
Focused on Excellence: Autumn Ashley
12/04/2023
Autumn is the administrative secretary for the Facilities and Operations department.
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Deidre Skaggs received the FSCA's School Counselor Advocate
Deidre Skaggs Honored by Florida School Counselor Association
12/01/2023
Deidre Skaggs received the FSCA's School Counselor Advocate: District Leader award, which recognizes individuals who have had "outstanding impact in the school counseling field."
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PCPS Learning Support Symposium on Saturday, Dec. 2
11/27/2023
Department leaders will be sharing information on supports and services available to students from the Behavior & Mental Health, ESE and Student Services departments
Read More about PCPS Learning Support Symposium on Saturday, Dec. 2
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Superintendent Heid Receives Administrator Advocacy Award
11/16/2023
Our own Superintendent Fred Heid has received the Administrator Advocacy Award from the Florida Association for Media in Education (FAME)!
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PCPS Announces Presidential Scholars for 2024
11/15/2023
Polk County Public Schools is proud to announce our honorees for the 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.
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Eight PCPS Schools Receive PBIS Awards
11/14/2023
Eight PCPS schools earned Model School status last year from the Florida Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) Project!
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PCPS School Choice Application Window is Jan. 8 to Feb. 16
11/13/2023
Polk County Public Schools will soon begin accepting school choice applications for the upcoming 2024-25 school year.
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Kathleen High Dedicates Freshman Academy
10/30/2023
Kathleen High Dedicates Freshman Academy to Johnnie Jackson, Jr.
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Roosevelt Academy Welding Program Commemoration Group Photo
PCPS Commemorates New Welding Program at Roosevelt Academy
10/27/2023
What's the hottest new thing in Polk County Public Schools? Arguably, it's the welding program at Roosevelt Academy.
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PCPS Announces Principals of the Year
PCPS Announces Principals of the Year
10/24/2023
Polk County Public Schools has announced our district’s principals of the year!
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Shelby Montgomery accepting her reward as the Arts Educator of the Year
Shelby Montgomery Named Arts Educator of the Year
10/23/2023
Congratulations to Shelby Montgomery for being named Arts Educator of the Year by the Polk Arts and Cultural Alliance!
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Secretary John Davis speaking at the Bright Futures Event
Ridge Community High Hosts Florida Bright Futures Event
10/19/2023
Ridge Community High did an excellent job today hosting an event to promote Florida's Bright Futures scholarship program.
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News Release Polk County Public Schools
Open Enrollment For PCPS Employee Benefits Starts Oct. 14
10/12/2023
This is an important reminder for employees of Polk County Public Schools about their benefits.
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News Release
Polk County Public Schools and Educators Union Reach Tentative Agreement
10/11/2023
Polk County Public Schools and the Polk Education Association have reached a tentative agreement regarding salaries and benefits for the 2023-24 fiscal year.
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Scenic Terrace
PCPS Celebrates Scenic Terrace Project
10/11/2023
We hosted an event this morning to commemorate the Scenic Terrace project.
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PCPS Conducting Survey for Grant Application
10/09/2023
The Stronger Connections Grant provides school districts with funding to help establish and support safer and healthier learning environments in their communities.
Read More about PCPS Conducting Survey for Grant Application
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College & Career Fairs
10/09/2023
The PCPS College & Career Fair can't be stopped! Originally postponed due to Hurricane Idalia, this year's event has been rescheduled to Thursday, Oct. 19, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Florida Southern College.
Read More about College & Career Fairs
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ESOL Parent Academy | October 14, 2023
ESOL Parent Academy
10/09/2023
You are invited to ESOL Parent Academy, a free event honoring Hispanic Heritage Month and organized by the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) department.
Read More about ESOL Parent Academy
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School Board
Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for October 2023
10/06/2023
The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 10. The board will also have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 24, followed by a regular monthly meeting at 5 p.m.
Read More about Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for October 2023
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PCPS Announces District 6 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
10/03/2023
Today was the final stop for the PCPS surprise patrol. Congratulations to the District 6 finalists for the 2023-24 Polk County Teacher and School Related Employee of the Year
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PCPS Cuts the Ribbon at South Pointe Elementary
09/29/2023
South Pointe opened in August and is PCPS’ newest elementary school. It measures nearly 127,000 square feet, located near the southernmost point of Winter Haven — which inspired the school’s name.
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Headshot photo of District 3 finalists, TOY - Kelly Larrow and SRE - Angela Love
PCPS Announces District 3 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
09/27/2023
Guess what day it is! Hump Day. But also, the day we announce the District 3 finalists for the 2023-24 Polk County Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year.
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Volunteer of the Year Medal
Honoring the PCPS Volunteers of the Year for 2022-23
09/25/2023
The new school year is moving fast, but we are overdue in recognizing our district’s extraordinary volunteers.
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Headshot photo of District 5 finalists, TOY - Kara Holt and SRE - Debra Glisson
PCPS Announces District 5 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
09/22/2023
Fridays are for finalists! Congratulations to our District 5 finalists for the 2023-24 Polk County Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year.
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Headshot photo of District 4 finalists, TOY - Elizabeth Ashmore and SRE - Laura Kovachy
PCPS Announces District 7 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
09/19/2023
Lucky number seven! Congratulations to our District 7 finalists for the 2023-24 Polk County Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year.
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Headshot photo of District 4 finalists, TOY - Robert Brown and SRE - Richard Reich
PCPS Announces District 4 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
09/18/2023
Let’s hear it for the District 4 finalists for the 2023-24 Polk County Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year!
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National Merit Scholarship Corp logo
Nine PCPS Students Announced as National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists
09/15/2023
Nine students from Polk County Public Schools are among this year’s semifinalists for National Merit Scholarships.
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McLaughlin Academy student pose for a group picture as they celebrate the new Duke Energy Academy
McLaughlin Academy Celebrates New Career-Readiness Program
09/13/2023
McLaughlin partnered with Duke Energy to open the Duke Energy Academy this year. The program covers technical knowledge and job-specific skills to help students explore careers in the energy industry.
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Headshot photo of District 2 finalists, TOY - Sherrie Blackwood  and SRE - Alberto L. Cosme
PCPS Announces District 2 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
09/12/2023
The PCPS surprise patrol was back on the road today, as we announced the District 2 finalists for the 2023-24 Polk County Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year.
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Headshot photo of District 1 finalists, TOY - Christina Wainwright and SRE - Teri Whitehead-Richardson
PCPS Announces District 1 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
09/08/2023
Earlier today, the PCPS surprise patrol visited two schools to announce our District 1 finalists for the 2023-24 Polk County Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year.
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Storm Information
PCPS Schools Will Be Open Tuesday, After-School Activities Canceled
08/27/2023
At this time there are no changes planned to the PCPS school day schedule for Tuesday, Aug. 29. While we expect to operate on a regular schedule tomorrow, all after-school activities for Tuesday, Aug. 29, are canceled and will be rescheduled as needed.
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Textbooks
Volunteers Needed for Review of Science and Social Studies Materials
08/25/2023
Polk County Public Schools is starting the adoption process for new instructional materials for science and social studies during the 2023-24 school year.
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Polk County Teachers
PCPS is Hiring, Come Work With Us!
08/22/2023
Come work with us! PCPS is hosting a series of online and in-person hiring events for teaching positions and other jobs.
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Polk County Public Schools News Release
An Update on A/C Systems in PCPS Schools
08/17/2023
You may have seen recent news coverage about A/C systems in PCPS schools. We’ve compiled some information to update our students, staff and community.
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College & Career Fair
PCPS College and Career Fair on Aug. 29
08/16/2023
Our annual College and Career Fair is coming up on Tuesday, Aug. 29, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Florida Southern College.
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News Release
New State Requirement for Use of Student Names
08/15/2023
On July 19, 2023, the Florida State Board of Education modified Rule 6A-1.0955 Education Records to include a section requiring written parental consent for the use of student names other than their legal names.
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PCPS Student Devices
Insurance Available for PCPS Student Devices
08/09/2023
All PCPS students are issued a device every year as part of our One-to-One Digital Learning Initiative.
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PCPS 2023-24 Back-to-School Guide Now Available
08/04/2023
The Polk County Public Schools 2023-24 back-to-school guide is now available!
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Summer Graduates 2023
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Polk County News Release
PCPS Library Opt-Out System Available Aug. 7-18
07/31/2023
Polk County Public Schools will open our library opt-out system from Aug. 7-18 for the fall semester
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PCP Students
No Cost for PCPS Student Meals for 2023-24
07/26/2023
Inflation is the worst! But thankfully, our student meal prices are staying the same this year: $0.00.
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Melissa Konkol Special Recognition
Gause Academy Teacher Melissa Konkol Named to FBLA Wall of Fame
07/25/2023
Gause Academy’s Melissa Konkol received a special recognition last month during the Future Business Leaders of America’s (FBLA) annual conference in Atlanta.
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Polk County School Board
Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for July 2023
07/20/2023
The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 25, followed by a regular monthly board meeting at 5 p.m.
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Bill Castle Hall of Fame
Lakeland High’s Bill Castle Named to Hall of Fame
07/11/2023
Lakeland High’s Bill Castle is being named to the Florida Athletic Coaches Association’s Hall of Fame.
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Gianna Junqueira National Merit
Davenport High Student Wins National Merit Scholarship
07/11/2023
Davenport High’s Gianna Junqueira has won a National Merit Scholarship.
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Watch out Kindergarten
Tips for New PCPS Families Enrolling for 2023-24
07/10/2023
If you’re new to the area or are enrolling in a PCPS school for the first time this year, here are a few tips to get you started:
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Ray Cruze Roosevelt Academy
Roosevelt Academy’s Ray Cruze Wins Excellence in Teaching Award
06/29/2023
Ray Cruze from Roosevelt Academy has won Florida’s 2023 Excellence in Teaching About Agriculture Award.
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PCPS Students Working on Computer
Scheduled Internet Outage Will Impact PCPS on June 30
06/29/2023
Please be aware that PCPS will experience a scheduled districtwide outage on Friday, June 30, as we work with vendors to improve our internet speed and security. The outage will begin about 9 a.m. and should last most of the day.
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Student Reporter Jonathan Davis
HSA’s Jonathan “JD” Davis Serves as Student Reporter at the Jimmy Awards
06/27/2023
Congratulations to Jonathan “JD” Davis from Harrison School for the Arts, who was one of two student reporters chosen for this year’s National High School Musical Theatre Awards, aka the Jimmy Awards.
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PCPS News Release
More Magnet School Acceptances Going out June 28
06/27/2023
PCPS is sending out more acceptance notices for families who have pending applications for magnet schools for 2023-24.
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Two Students win life Scholarships
Harrison Duo Win Arts for Life! Scholarships
06/22/2023
Two students from Harrison School for the Arts were among just 25 statewide winners of Arts for Life! scholarships this year.
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Tenoroc High Concludes First Year
Tenoroc High Concludes First Year as a 3DE School
06/21/2023
“Great morning spending time with community leaders showcasing the 3DE program and students at Tenoroc High School. Listening to them share their stories about how the program has helped with attendance, engagement and academic performance was inspiring.”
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Bus Drivers Needed
Bus Drivers Needed for 2023-24 School Year
06/20/2023
A new school year is approaching and PCPS has a critical need for bus drivers to serve our growing community. We would love to have you come join us for 2023-24!
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South Pointe Elementary
South Pointe Elementary Preparing to Open for 2023-24
06/08/2023
Construction is humming along at our newest school: South Pointe Elementary, home of the Ospreys!
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Polk County School Board
Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for June 2023
06/08/2023
The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 13, followed by a regular monthly board meeting at 5 p.m.
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National Merit Scholarship Logo
Three More National Merit Scholarship Winners Announced From PCPS
06/07/2023
Polk County Public Schools had a trio of National Merit Scholarship winners announced today.
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Breaking News for Polk County Public Schools
PCPS Families Can Still Apply for Controlled Open Enrollment for 2023-24
06/05/2023
PCPS is taking more applications for Controlled Open Enrollment (COE) for the upcoming 2023-24 school year.
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Breaking News for Polk County Public Schools
PCPS Summer Meal Sites Open June 7
06/01/2023
Don’t be hangry this summer! PCPS is participating in the statewide Summer BreakSpot program.
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Breaking News for Polk County Public Schools
Acceptance Notices for Magnet Schools, Controlled Open Enrollment Going out Friday, May 26
05/25/2023
PCPS is sending out more acceptance notices for families who have pending applications for magnet schools and/or Controlled Open Enrollment (COE) for 2023-24.
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Breaking News for Polk County Public Schools
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Breaking News for Polk County Public Schools
No Backpacks Allowed for Remainder of Current School Year
05/22/2023
Just a reminder that no backpacks are allowed at anPCPS school sites for the remainder of this current school year.
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Breaking News for Polk County Public Schools
Statement Regarding Incident at Blake Academy
05/19/2023
We are aware of an incident at Blake Academy involving a student who made a TikTok video about another student.
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Breaking News for Polk County Public Schools
PCPS ESOL Department Hosting Haitian Heritage Event on May 25
05/18/2023
You are invited to a free event honoring Haitian Heritage Month organized by the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) department.
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Breaking News from Polk County Public Schools
Education Academy Students Get Job Offers From PCPS
05/16/2023
The high school seniors from Polk County Public Schools’ education academies will soon head to college to pursue a teaching career.
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Breaking News for Polk County Public Schools
Davenport Elementary Named a Polk County Heritage Site
05/15/2023
We always knew that Davenport Elementary was a historical treasure, but now it’s official.
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Davenport School of Art Lighthouse
Davenport School of the Arts Earns Lighthouse Certification
05/11/2023
Davenport School of the Arts has been officially certified as a Leader in Me Lighthouse School.
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PCPS Graduates overcome Homelessness
Celebrating PCPS Graduates Who Overcame Homelessness
05/11/2023
All students face challenges on their path to graduation, but every year we take time to celebrate a special group of seniors who have endured and overcome homelessness.
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Inaugural Class of inside PCPS
Members of Inaugural Class of Inside PCPS Celebrate Final Day Together
05/09/2023
Today more than 20 community leaders celebrated their final day together as members of the inaugural class of Inside PCPS.
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Polk County School Board
Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for May 2023
05/08/2023
The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 8, followed by a regular monthly board meeting at 5 p.m.
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District Office Butterfly
Student Artwork Honors Mental Health Awareness Month
05/04/2023
You might notice more butterflies flitting around our campuses this month.
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Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
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Polk County Breaking News
Controlled Open Enrollment, Magnet School Acceptances Going Out This Week
05/02/2023
This week we are conducting a lottery drawing for Controlled Open Enrollment (COE) applications, as well as a second lottery drawing for magnet school applications.
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About Face Celebration
PCPS Celebrates Students’ Progress at the About-Face Awards
04/27/2023
Every year we make a point to celebrate students who have turned their lives around.
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Polk County School Board Meeting on April 25
04/24/2023
The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 25, followed by a regular board meeting at 5 p.m.
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Florida Prepaid
Florida Prepaid College Plan Enrollment Ends April 30
04/21/2023
Don’t forget that open enrollment for Florida Prepaid College Plans is available until April 30. Visit myfloridaprepaid.com for more info.
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PCPS Career Academies Honored by Lakeland Leads
PCPS Career Academies Honored by Lakeland Leads
04/20/2023
Earlier this week we had the pleasure of gathering with Lakeland Leads for an awards ceremony honoring our career academies and business partners in the Lakeland area. Former Gov. Jeb Bush served as the keynote speaker.
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BBQ Battle Group Pose
PCPS Students Face Off in a BBQ Battle
04/18/2023
The barbecue wars heated up on Saturday, as PCPS students gathered at George Jenkins High and put their skills to the grills.
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Job Fair
PCPS Online Hiring Event on April 25
04/17/2023
Come work with us! We’re holding an online job fair to recruit teachers, paras, bus drivers and other positions for the 2023-24 school year
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
PCPS Offering Summer VPK and Kindergarten Readiness Camps
04/14/2023
We’re offering a summer VPK program at Kathleen Elementary. This is another option in addition to our Kindergarten Readiness Camps being offered at sites throughout the district.
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Auditorium Ribbon Cutting
Rochelle School of the Arts Celebrates Revamped Auditorium
04/11/2023
The revamped auditorium at Rochelle School of the Arts made its official debut last week.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Volunteers Needed to Review ESE Curriculum Materials
04/10/2023
Polk County Public Schools is seeking help with evaluating potential instructional materials for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Polk School Board Officially Names Newest School: South Pointe Elementary
04/06/2023
The Polk County School Board has approved South Pointe Elementary as the name for a new school under construction on State Highway 653 in Winter Haven.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Deadline to Accept School Choice Invites is April 10
04/04/2023
Please check your Parent Portal account, as well as your email, for notifications regarding your child’s application for magnet/choice schools, IB, Cambridge AICE, or career academies.
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PCPS Breaking News
Controlled Open Enrollment Begins April 3
03/29/2023
Polk County Public Schools is moving forward with controlled open enrollment for the 2023-24 school year.
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CODE-Kindergarten
Kindergarten Enrollment for 2023-24 Begins April 3
03/23/2023
Kindergarten enrollment for the 2023-24 school year begins on Monday, April 3.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Acceptances for PCPS School Choice Applications Going Out March 24
03/23/2023
Acceptance notices for magnet/choice schools, career academies, and IB/Cambridge for the 2023-24 school year will start going out tomorrow (Friday, March 24).
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Hannah Kaufmann Spessard Holland Elementary
Spessard Holland Elementary Teacher Has a Personal Connection to Story From the Holocaust
03/07/2023
As Spessard Holland Elementary was preparing for a book fair last week, teacher Hannah Kaufman saw a familiar face among the titles on display
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CPE VPK
PCPS Head Start and VPK 2023-24 Application Window Opens March 7
03/06/2023
Head Start, Title I pre-K and Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) applications for the 2023-24 school year will go live tomorrow (Tuesday, March, 7).
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Superintendent Heid
PCPS Announces Community Conversations Tour With Superintendent Fred Heid
03/03/2023
Superintendent Heid will be making stops throughout Polk County for another Community Conversations tour.
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LRHS Students Compete
Lake Region High Culinary Students Advance to Finals of Universal Orlando Competition
03/02/2023
A team of students from Lake Region High’s culinary academy have made it to the finals of a Universal Orlando cooking competition.
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Frostproof
Class of 2023 Graduation Schedule Now Available
03/01/2023
The graduation schedule for the PCPS Class of 2023 is now available.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
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FHS News
Frostproof Middle-Senior Hosting Two Ceremonies Honoring Dedicated Staff Members
02/17/2023
Frostproof Middle-Senior is hosting two ceremonies in honor of dedicated staff members and naming two facilities after them.
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Student Crossing
Help Us to Protect Pedestrians
02/17/2023
To our families and community, I’m reaching out to you because I’m very concerned about the safety of our students as they walk to and from school, or the bus stop every day.
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Lawton Chiles Wins MathCounts
Lawton Chiles Middle Academy Students Win Polk MathCounts Competition
02/15/2023
A team of Mathletes from Lawton Chiles Middle Academy won first place in a recent MathCounts competition.
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Jesse Keen Elementary Swimming with Sharks
Swimming With the “Sharks” at Jesse Keen Elementary
02/09/2023
Supposedly Polk County is landlocked, but we’ve been getting a lot of reports of shark sightings at Jesse Keen Elementary.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Elementary Science Showcase Features Great Work
02/09/2023
The students are small but the brains are big at the Elementary Science Showcase.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Events to Help Families Prepare for 2023
02/07/2023
PCPS Hosting “Mission Transition” Events to Help Students and Families Prepare for 2023-24
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Davenport High Step Team
Davenport High Step Team Makes an Impression at Regional Debut
02/07/2023
A group of students from Davenport High are leaving a big footprint on the step world.
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DKG International Society logo
“Rising Stars” Awards Recognize Outstanding New PCPS Teachers
01/30/2023
Eighteen new PCPS teachers have made this year’s list of “Rising Stars” by Delta Kappa Gamma.
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PCPS Varsity Tutors
PCPS Launches New Teacher-Led Tutoring Program
01/23/2023
Polk County Public Schools and Varsity Tutors have launched a new online tutoring partnership that brings live instruction and lessons to 40,000 students across the district.
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Bartow High Modernization Ribbon Cutting
PCPS Celebrates Completion of Bartow High Modernization Project
01/19/2023
Yesterday we made the short trip to Bartow High to put the finishing touches on a years-long modernization project.
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Sunshine State Scholars
PCPS Announces Sunshine State Scholars for 2023
01/18/2023
We are pleased to announce our Sunshine State Scholars for 2023!
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Southwest Elementary Debut First Career Academy
Southwest Elementary to Debut PCPS’ First Career Academy for Elementary Students
01/17/2023
As you consider your options during our school choice application window, check out the Digital Media Academy at Southwest Elementary.
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Martin Luther King I have A Dream
PCPS Students Honored at MLK Essay Challenge Celebration
01/17/2023
Congratulations to the winners of Polk County’s 22nd annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Challenge!
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Floridians Encouraged to Submit Internet Access Data by Friday, Jan. 13
01/10/2023
The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity needs PCPS parents to verify their access to broadband internet by this Friday, Jan. 13th.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
PCPS School Choice Application Window Now Open Until Feb. 15
01/09/2023
The PCPS school choice application window is now open until Feb. 15. This is your opportunity to apply for magnet schools, career academies and other programs for the 2023-24 school year.
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Luisa Meyer Named FFLA Teacher of the Year
Bartow Middle’s Luisa Meyer Named FFLA Teacher of the Year
01/05/2023
Bartow Middle Spanish teacher Luisa Meyer has been named the Florida Foreign Language Association’s (FFLA) Teacher of the Year.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
PCPS Library Opt-Out System Reopens Jan. 2-16
12/14/2022
Polk County Public Schools will reopen our library opt-out system from Jan. 2-16.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
PCPS School Choice Application Window is Jan. 9 to Feb. 15
11/30/2022
Polk County Public Schools will soon begin accepting school choice applications for the upcoming 2023-24 school year.
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Polk County Public Schools News Release
New Polk County School Board Members Sworn In
11/22/2022
Rick Nolte and Justin Sharpless were sworn in as new members of the Polk County School Board today, during a meeting at the school district’s headquarters in Bartow.
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Presidential Scholars Medallion
PCPS Announces Presidential Scholars Honorees for 2023
11/16/2022
Polk County Public Schools is proud to announce our honorees for the 2023 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.
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PCPS Breaking News
PCPS Announces Expansion of Magnet School Programs
11/14/2022
Polk County Public Schools has secured a grant that will allow us to expand and improve our magnet school offerings.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Polk County Public Schools Announces Principals of the Year
10/26/2022
There are many excellent principals throughout Polk County Public Schools, but every year we have the pleasure of highlighting some of our very best school leaders.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Lake Region High’s Israel Mirtil Becomes a Cross Country Sensation
10/24/2022
The Lake Region High cross country runner won the county championship earlier this month and added a district title to his resume last week. He’s now moving on to compete at the regional level.
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