Tampabay.com
JANUARY 08, 2008

Hillsborough students rolling up sleeves

On the first day back at school for Hillsborough students, it's only appropriate to recognize how eager many are to roll up their sleeves and get to work. Especially when it comes to giving blood.

A remarkable factoid: Hillsborough's high school students donate around 15 percent of the necessary blood supply for the Tampa Bay area, according to Florida Blood Services. The non-profit recently recognized several local high schools for going above and beyond during blood drives.

To be sure, some students may be looking for a pass out of class. For others, bragging rights may be at stake. In east Hillsborough, school rivalries can drive the push to organize the biggest blood drive in town. But unlike some blood sports, this one is for a good cause.

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About the blog

Gradebook features education articles and insights on schools in Florida, focusing on Tampa Bay area schools. What's the latest from the Florida Department of Education? How is the FCAT being used to compare Florida schools? What's going in on in Tampa Bay schools? Get an insider's view from the Times education reporting team.

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THE TEAM

Rebecca Catalanello covers Pinellas County schools. E-mail her: rcatalanello@tampabay.com.

Tony Marrero covers Hernando County schools. E-mail him: tmarrero@tampabay.com.

Marlene Sokol covers Hillsborough County schools. E-mail her: sokol@tampabay.com.

Ron Matus covers Pinellas County schools. E-mail him: matus@tampabay.com.

Jeffrey S. Solochek covers Pasco County schools. E-mail him: solochek@tampabay.com.

Kim Wilmath covers the University of South Florida. E-mail her: kwilmath@tampabay.com.

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