Hillsborough School District invites families to ZooTampa to explore magnet school options

TAMPA, Fla. – Hillsborough County parents and students have a unique chance to get up close and personal with exotic animals at ZooTampa, all while exploring the school district’s magnet schools and career and technical education opportunities.

The annual HCPS Magnet Schools and Career and Technical Education Expo comes to ZooTampa on Thursday from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. According to organizers, families will find 45 magnet schools and ‘select engaging programs’ throughout the zoo,” looking forward to talking to you about the exciting adventures they have in store for your students.”

In a program describing the event, parents and students are encouraged to ask questions, schedule tours and get information about programs. Families are welcome to freely explore the zoo from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Then at 5 p.m., organizers will host an hour-long “magic magnet hour” in the zoo’s Saunders Pavilion and Savanna Oasis with light snacks and lemonade.

“Of course, make sure you talk to as many schools as you can and apply to one for the 2023-2024 school year,” organizers said.

A magnet school, as defined by HCPS, is “a public elementary, middle, or high school whose curriculum is subject-based and technology-rich. Magnet school teachers are specially trained not only to integrate topics, but also in innovative and rigorous academic instruction. methods. Magnet schools provide students with opportunities to discover, explore, and enhance their talents and interests while focusing on excellence in academics.”

HCPS says its magnet schools support the district’s mission to provide all students with the knowledge and skills needed to reach their highest potential. Application for the district’s magnet schools is now open until December 16.

Admission results will be available to families at the end of January 2023. You can find information about Thursday’s event here.