Spoto High School Welcomes SCOPE Initiative for College and Career Readiness
Tampa, FL – The Hillsborough Education Foundation (HEF) has officially announced the expansion of its Student Center of Postsecondary Exploration (SCOPE) program to Spoto High School. This marks the third SCOPE location in the Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) system, following its successful launch at King High School in 2022 and later at Brandon High School.
Funding and Support
The new center will provide essential support for students as they prepare for postsecondary education and career paths. The expansion is made possible by generous contributions from The Mosaic Company and Tampa Electric Company (TECO), who are committed to fostering educational success in the community.
What is SCOPE?
SCOPE is designed to assist students in navigating the increasingly complex landscape of postsecondary education. The program offers a range of personalized services, including one-on-one college and career planning, help with admissions and financial aid applications, and guidance on alternative education pathways such as technical colleges and trade schools.
Why is SCOPE Important?
As students face numerous options for life after high school, the need for dedicated, personalized resources becomes crucial. SCOPE provides tailored guidance to address the unique aspirations of each student, making the program an invaluable resource. Anna Corman, HEF’s president and CEO, emphasizes the significance of SCOPE: “The program has proven to be a valuable resource for students navigating the complex journey toward college and career readiness.”
Community and Education Partners
“This partnership means a direct line of communication, guidance, and mentorship to the future of the local workforce,” commented Karen Swager, executive vice president of operations at The Mosaic Company. She noted that Mosaic’s Riverview plant has deep ties to the Progress Village community and that SCOPE at Spoto High School is an opportunity to nurture a skilled workforce locally.
Hillsborough County Public Schools Superintendent Van Ayres echoed this sentiment, stating, “This program is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together to invest in our students’ futures.” He emphasized the importance of community collaboration to realize this program.
Success and Future Plans
Since its inception, SCOPE has met or exceeded all key program benchmarks, benefiting thousands of students across the HCPS system. This success is driving HEF’s vision for future expansion, with plans to establish six fully operational centers by 2026. Corman believes that bringing SCOPE resources to Spoto High School is an essential step toward this goal and will bolster the academic and career readiness of students in the area.
With the launch of the SCOPE program at Spoto High School, students will now have access to valuable opportunities to gain real-world skills and insights into various career fields. The collaboration between HEF, local businesses, and the school district paves the way for greater educational outcomes, ensuring students are prepared for their futures.
As the program takes root at Spoto High School, the community looks forward to witnessing the impact it will have on the students and the local workforce.
