Leadership Tampa Class of 2025 Meets the Educators in Hillsborough County
Education isn’t one-size-fits-all — and neither are the people who make it happen. Today was a powerful reminder of just how diverse and dynamic the world of education truly is. From traditional public schools to specialized programs, charter schools to career-focused training centers, we had the opportunity to hear directly from educators across a wide spectrum of roles and environments.
Each one brought a unique perspective, but a common thread ran through them all: a deep commitment to students, a passion for innovation, and a belief that every learner deserves the chance to succeed.
EDUCATIONAL LANDSCAPE IN HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY
Early Learning Coalition
Did you know that by the time a child turns five, their brain is already 50% developed? That means the early years are absolutely critical for language, social, and cognitive development. Pay for Pre-K teachers is far too low and our community
Play is not just fun — it’s how children learn. Young children need hands-on play, face-to-face conversations, and plenty of time to explore the world around them. These experiences build the foundation for language — and language is what makes reading possible.
Children have until about 3rd grade to master reading skills. After that, the focus shifts from learning to read to reading to learn. If a child hasn't built strong language and reading abilities by then, catching up becomes much harder.
Hillsborough County Public Schools
Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) is one of the largest and most dynamic districts in the country — and it's embracing the future to best serve their student learners.
AI is here to stay, and HCPS are embracing it. Technology cannot replace teachers – even as a short term solution to resolve the current decline in teachers in the workforce. Schools in Hillsborough County remain face-to-face every day — and every student has access to a device to support their learning.
Another important question educators are asking: How can we embed soft skills like communication, public speaking, and emotional intelligence into everyday learning?
HCPS is also looking at school models — particularly K–8 versus K–5 structures. Each comes with its own benefits and budget considerations. K–8 schools may offer better continuity and community, while K–5 campuses can be more focused.
At the end of the day, the mission is simple: meet students where they are. schools are working hard to make education more effective for every child. One key focus area is improving two-way communication with parents.
And one final consideration: a school's grade doesn’t tell the whole story. Letter grades and rankings don’t always reflect the quality, care, and opportunity a school provides.
Hillsborough Community College - Ybor City Campus
With over 45,000 students across five campuses, Hillsborough Community College (HCC) is one of the most accessible post-secondary education institutions in the region. And like many colleges, HCC has been evolving to meet the changing needs of today’s learners.
At HCC, the approach to AI is clear AI is a powerful tool to enhance learning, not replace it. The idea that AI cannot take the place of college-level education— post-secondary education is about more than just information. It’s about critical thinking, real-world skills, collaboration, and personal growth.
Since 2020, the shift to online and hybrid learning has been significant, and it’s not going away. In fact, it's helping schools like HCC serve students better than ever before. At the Ybor City Campus, for example, 70% of classes are now virtual - a direct response to student demand as many learners balance jobs, families, and other responsibilities. HCC is leaning into that flexibility while still offering the in-person experiences that some students prefer.
UNIVERSITY AND COLLEGE PROGRAMS
USF Research Initiatives
USF is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU). This invite-only group includes only 71 of the most respected research universities across the US and Canada.
Being part of the AAU means USF is being recognized for its strong commitment to research, academic excellence, and real-world impact.
The USF Center for Innovation has introduced two bold, brand-new degree programs in Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence — two of the fastest-growing fields in today’s economy. These programs are designed to prepare students not just for jobs, but for future-focused careers that make a difference in the Tampa Bay region.
USF also knows the power of strong partnerships. Its collaboration with local corporations plays a huge role in helping students gain real-world experience and helping companies tap into new talent. As Tampa Bay grows, so does the need for innovation — and these partnerships make that possible.
Right now, research funding is under serious pressure. With increasing government scrutiny and ongoing budget cuts, universities across the country — including USF — are being asked to do more with less. The impact to lab work, fellowships and research projects can be significant and philanthropic institutions, family and corporate giving is seen as the way forward to support the next generation of researchers.
University of Tampa Department of Education
The University of Tampa Department of Education is nimble and community-focused by adapting its programs to meet local educational needs. It is focused on doing what matters — preparing future educators with the real-world experience and advanced training they need to make a difference, right here in the community.
One of the university’s biggest strengths is its strong partnerships with local elementary and secondary schools. Education majors don’t just sit in classrooms— they’re out in the field, spending up to four years gaining hands-on experience through internships and school placements. This real-world training is paired with support from experienced professors, many of whom bring decades of classroom knowledge into their teaching.
The university is also expanding its graduate offerings to serve educators at every stage of their careers. Current master’s programs include:
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Instructional Design and Psychology
- Educational Leadership
A Master’s in Exceptional Education is in development — designed to prepare teachers to meet the growing demand for specialized skills in inclusive and adaptive learning environments.
HCC TV and Radio Broadcast Program
Hillsborough Community College’s RTV Program is a exciting launchpad for students who want to work in TV or radio. This hands-on, content-driven program is designed to do more than just teach — it gets students out in the field, working on real productions, with real crews.
Over the course of two years, students dive into the world of live broadcasting, gaining experience in everything from camera work and audio to on-air talent and technical directing. The goal is for students to build a professional resume while in school and graduate ready to hit the ground running.
Adum K-8 Magnet School
There’s a lot to be excited about at Hillsborough County’s newest magnet school — and families are taking notice. With over 1,000 students already enrolled and 250 more expected next year (including the addition of VPK), this school is quickly becoming a standout example of what innovative public education can look like.
Adum is actively working toward becoming an International Baccalaureate (IB) School. That means global learning won’t just be a special program — it’ll be woven into every subject area. Adum will also have a strong connection with Robinson High School’s IB Program, creating a clear and exciting pathway for students who want to continue their international education through high school.
Robinson High School
Robinson High School’s curriculum in culinary education isn’t just about recipes — it’s about real-world experience. The school’s Knight Café gives Culinary Arts students a chance to learn the food industry in a truly hands-on setting. With a fully equipped professional kitchen as their classroom and a modern, inviting dining space known as the Knights Tavern, these students are running a working restaurant.
Our class had the pleasure of experiencing this firsthand with a beautifully plated gourmet meal, entirely planned, prepared, and served by Robinson’s talented Culinary Arts students. From the presentation to the flavors, every detail was thoughtfully crafted — and it showed.
Leading the way is Chef Mitchell Smithey, a proud Robinson alum who’s come full circle to mentor the next generation of culinary professionals.
Van Ayres - Superintendent of Schools for Hillsborough County Public Schools
With 218,000 students and 23,000 employees, Hillsborough County Public Schools is one of the largest school districts in the nation — and its mission is clear: to provide every student with an education and the support they need to become successful, responsible citizens. Hillsborough County Public Schools is about people. From teachers and staff to parents and community partners, everyone plays a part in preparing students for a successful future.
As the population in the Tampa Bay area continues to rise, growth management has become the district’s #1 challenge. Some suburban schools are bursting at the seams, while others in urban areas are well under capacity. It’s a complex balancing act, and the district is responding with action: four new schools are set to open in the next three years, helping to meet the needs in the faster-growing regional communities.
Great public schools are the most important element for a community to succeed.
Hillsborough’s schools are supported by an impressive infrastructure:
- 13,000 teachers
- 231 school sites
- 600 permanent substitute teachers
- 78,000 students transported daily by bus
In Florida, property tax to state funding equalization helps ensure that school districts receive fair funding — but local challenges still remain. One critical area of focus is third grade reading proficiency, which research shows is directly tied to high school graduation. As we heard earlier in the day, it all starts with early learning: students who arrive ready for Kindergarten are much more likely to read successfully by third grade.
Post-pandemic, the district is facing another serious hurdle: chronic absenteeism. Students that attend school less than 90% of the time is a concern that impacts learning across the board. Addressing attendance is now a top priority.
At the heart of it all, the district is focused on five key drivers that influence student achievement:
- Teachers
- School Leaders
- Instruction
- Attendance
- Family & Community Involvement
What We Learned from Teacher Shadow Day
One thing became clear after we completed our Teacher Shadow Day — walking in a teacher’s shoes is an eye-opening experience. Shadowing them for just one day gave participants a whole new level of respect for the profession.
Everyone who participated came away with a deeper appreciation for the dedication, skill, and patience it takes to be an educator. It was a powerful reminder that the work teachers do each day is often misunderstood and far too frequently undervalued.
PEPIN ACADEMY
Dr. Jeff Skorwonek, MST, Ph.D. – Executive Director of Pepin Academies does everything he does through the lens of every student deserves an education that not only meets their needs but also helps them discover their full potential. Founded by the generosity of the Pepin family, this philosophy is exactly what Pepin Academy does every day. Their mission? To help each learner earn a standard diploma in a safe, supportive environment that embraces their abilities, not their limitations.
With three campuses serving grades 3–12 and more than 1,150 students, this full-time Exceptional Student Education (ESE) Center Charter School is dedicated to students with IEPs (Individualized Education Programs). The school’s philosophy is a simple but powerful idea: "Belonging leads to learning." Instead of focusing on what they struggle with, they’re given the tools to build on what makes them shine.
This culture of empowerment and expression was on full display when we were treated to student performances, featuring a vibrant ensemble from Seussical: The Musical and a remarkable solo of Breathe from In the Heights. These moments showcase not just talent, but the confidence and growth nurtured every day on campus.
Every student receives support through occupational therapy, speech therapy, and small group or individual sessions — all embedded right into the classroom experience.
This isn’t your average school. Students learn practical, real-world skills, too — like running their very own Cafe, where they serve up coffee, tea, and smoothies to staff and guests. It’s not just a fun project; it’s a business venture that helps students earn certifications like Safe Food Handler and Food Manager, all in partnership with local businesses.
With a 96% graduation rate, students are not just finishing high school — they’re ready to take the next step. Here's where graduates typically head:
- 10–15% go on to college
- 16% enroll in the Transition Program
- 50–60% head straight into the workforce
Call to action for the community: Make the box BIGGER
ULTIMATE MEDICAL ACADEMY
With 20,000 students enrolled nationwide and over 90,000 graduates, Ultimate Medical Academy (UMA) has become a key player in shaping the allied healthcare workforce — the behind-the-scenes heroes who support patient care alongside doctors and nurses.
Behind this impactful work are leaders like Dr. Shadell Hamilton, April Neuman, and Clara Reynolds, who continue to drive innovation and equity in healthcare education.
UMA is part of the third-largest network of healthcare providers, helping to grow the pipeline of allied health professionals.
A standout partnership is with the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay, where UMA is training the next generation of EMTs and behavioral health responders. Ensuring that the TransCare program is fully staffed, EMT apprentices are employed by the Crisis Center and receive their education at UMA. They train with hands-on experiences such as mock car crash scenario featuring "walking wounded" and passengers who required full emergency extraction. These powerful, immersive exercises include an indoor ambulance simulator prepare students for the unpredictable nature of real-life emergency care.
Nasium Partnership
Nasium is UMA’s partner in clinical focused programs, providing educational training solutions to upskill, reskill, and help retain employees while offering certification preparation for vital, high-demand roles
The healthcare industry is facing a critical challenge: more professionals are leaving the field than entering it. thinking differently about how we train and retain healthcare workers. One solution is to look beyond traditional pathways and open the door to nontraditional training options that can bring more people into the field — faster and more flexibly. Healthcare providers and training institutions must work hand-in-hand to develop upskilling programs that help current staff grow into new roles
Continuing Learner Services
UMA takes a student centric approach understanding that each student will have a unique approach. Their goal is to meet them where they are through a variety of initiatives under the umbrella of PUMA – Personalized UMA. This includes custom applications, phone, text, email video and face to face interactions, 24 hour tech support, Student Guidance Center, Career Readiness ensuring students are interview and resume ready.
Career Services
600 people working as advisors assisting students before they graduate. Partnerships with CVS and insurance companies work closely with corporate alliance team.
Regulatory and Compliance Adherence
UMA is accredited by the Florida DOE and is licensed in 22 states
- Benchmarks of Success
- Retention Placement in profession
- Graduation goal of 70% by program
This day wasn’t just about listening — it was about learning, connecting, and being inspired by the incredible work happening in classrooms and programs across our community.
There is no single way to teach, and no single kind of learner. Whether it’s a magnet school offering music and language, a charter school focused on inclusion, or a training program preparing future healthcare professionals, each approach plays a vital role in helping students thrive.
At the end of this comprehensive and thought provoking day, we as leaders, have to ask - Now What?
What unites all of these models is a shared goal — to meet students where they are and help them grow into their full potential. But educators can’t do it alone. Community leaders have a powerful role to play. By building partnerships, advocating for equitable resources, supporting workforce development, and celebrating diverse paths to success, we can help ensure these programs not only continue but flourish.
Because when we invest in education — in all its forms — we invest in a stronger, more inclusive future for everyone.