Pinellas families who seek opportunities besides their zoned school or their current school can apply to get into a special program. The application period runs through Jan. 29. For more information on individual schools, including school Web sites, go to pcsb.org and click on the "schools" heading. (All grades and stats are from 2008-09.)
High schools
Magnet programs, centers of excellence and academies
BOCA CIEGA HIGH
924 58th St. S
Gulfport, FL 33707
(727) 893-2780
Hours: 7:05 a.m. to 1:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:35 p.m.
Schoolwide grade: D.
Percent proficient in reading: 31.
Percent proficient in math: 59.
Center for Wellness and Medical Professions: Students interested in careers in the medical field can intern with medical professionals and receive instruction from medically trained teachers. The Boca Ciega program serves students who live south of Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard and offers the district's only athletic trainer program.
GIBBS HIGH
850 34th St. S
St. Petersburg, FL 33711
(727) 893-5452
Hours: 7:05 a.m. to 1:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:35 p.m.
Schoolwide grade: F.
Percent proficient in reading: 34.
Percent proficient in math: 51.
Business, Economic Technology Academy: A blend of business and technology skills with academic coursework. Electives include business management, finance, administration, Cisco networking, Oracle, PC support, Web services and digital design. Students work closely with specially trained teachers and community partners who provide career consultation, job shadowing and internships.
Pinellas County Center for the Arts: Trains talented students who are interested in pursuing a career in the fine and performing arts. Students audition to major in dance, instrumental music, vocal music, performance theater, musical theater, technical theater or visual arts. Facilities include state-of-the-art performance spaces, studios and technology.
LAKEWOOD HIGH
1400 54th Ave. S
St. Petersburg, FL 33712
(727) 893-2916
Hours: 7:05 a.m. to 1:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:35 p.m.
Schoolwide grade: D.
Percent proficient in reading: 45.
Percent proficient in math: 67.
Center for Advanced Technologies: Emphasis on advanced mathematics and science, computer applications and programming, multimedia and TV production, and scientific research. The academic, robotics and multimedia production teams have won awards at state and national levels.
LARGO HIGH
410 Missouri Ave.
Largo, FL 33770
(727) 588-3758
Hours: 7:05 a.m. to 1:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:35 p.m.
Schoolwide grade: D.
Percent proficient in reading: 44.
Percent proficient in math: 73.
Exploring Careers & Education in Leadership: In addition to traditional instruction, this newly renamed program takes a hands-on approach to learning. Students shadow professionals — including surgeons, lawyers, engineers and veterinarians — as they begin exploring careers and networking. They also work in teams on interdisciplinary projects that include the use of videotaping, Web page development and PowerPoint presentations.
Discovery night: 6:30-8 p.m. Jan. 20.
PALM HARBOR UNIVERSITY HIGH
1900 Omaha St.
Palm Harbor, FL 34683
(727) 669-1131
Hours: 7:05 a.m. to 1:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:35 p.m.
Schoolwide grade: B.
Percent proficient in reading: 75.
Percent proficient in math: 93.
Center for Wellness and Medical Professions: Students interested in careers in the medical field get a background in medical technology and pathophysiology and firsthand clinical experience in their chosen fields. The program serves students who live north of Ulmerton Road and hosts a chapter of the Health Occupations Students of America Organization.
International Baccalaureate program: Provides highly motivated students who live north of Ulmerton the opportunity to pursue a rigorous university preparatory curriculum. The IB diploma is awarded to students who complete the coursework and pass a special exam. They also must present an extended essay reflecting independent research and analysis.
Discovery night: 6-8:30 p.m. Jan. 26.
PINELLAS PARK HIGH
6305 118th Ave. N
Largo, FL 33773
(727) 538-7410
Hours: 7:05 a.m.-1:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:35 p.m.
Schoolwide grade: D.
Percent proficient in reading: 37.
Percent proficient in math: 70.
Criminal Justice Academy: Graduates will be prepared to further their education or enter the work force. Emphasis on all areas of law education and forensics combined with general academics. The academy features two mock courtrooms, a biology and forensics lab, a crime scene lab and a firearms training simulator. The mock trial team excels at state and national levels. Its Florida Law Honor Society has been adopted by the state for use by other law programs.
Discovery night: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Jan. 25.
National Guard Center for Emergency Management: The four-year program prepares students for jobs in emergency response and management. Students will learn to plan for, assess and manage disasters such as hurricanes, civil disturbances and terrorism. Students work with computer simulators, a mock ambulance and mannequins.
Discovery night: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Jan. 19
ST. PETERSBURG HIGH
2501 Fifth Ave. N
St. Petersburg, FL 33713
(727) 893-1842
Hours: 7:05 a.m.-1:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:35 p.m.
Schoolwide grade: C.
Percent proficient in reading: 59.
Percent proficient in math: 77.
International Baccalaureate program: The first IB program in the state, it provides highly motivated students who live south of Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard the opportunity to pursue a rigorous university preparatory curriculum. The IB diploma is awarded to students who complete the program's coursework and pass a special exam. They also must present an extended essay reflecting independent research and analysis.
TARPON SPRINGS HIGH
1411 Gulf Road
Tarpon Springs, FL 34689
(727) 943-4900
Hours: 7:05 a.m.-1:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:35 p.m.
Schoolwide grade: D.
Percent proficient in reading: 47.
Percent proficient in math: 77.
Leadership Conservatory for the Arts: Allows students to develop leadership skills, receive advanced instruction in the performing arts, use technology and undertake challenging academics whether postgraduation interest is college, technical school or the work force. Open to students without formal training who want to develop their talent.
Discovery night: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Jan. 21.
Fundamental program
OSCEOLA HIGH SCHOOL
9751 98th St. N
Seminole, FL 33777
(727) 547-7717
Hours: 7:05 a.m. to 1:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:35 p.m.
Schoolwide grade: C.
Percent proficient in reading: 50.
Percent proficient in math: 82.
After a phasing-in process, Osceola will be a full-fledged fundamental school for the first time in 2009-10, the county's only fundamental high school. Also new: more electives and expanded culinary and TV production programs. The district describes it as "a quiet, well-disciplined and structured learning environment" where rules are "strictly enforced." Guidelines include a dress code that exceeds the regular code and required parent attendance at conferences and monthly meetings. Arterial bus transportation is provided.
Career academies
CLEARWATER HIGH
540 S Hercules Ave.
Clearwater, FL 33764
(727) 298-1620
Hours: 7:05 a.m. to 1:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:35 p.m.
Schoolwide grade: C.
Percent proficient in reading: 44.
Percent proficient in math: 74.
Career Academy for International Culture and Commerce: Newly designated as a center of excellence. Program offers exposure to international business with an emphasis on international studies and multicultural diversity. Students work with local business leaders, who offer internships. Students leave prepared to enter the workplace or continue their education in international business.
DIXIE HOLLINS HIGH
4940 62nd St. N
St. Petersburg, FL 33709
(727) 547-7876
Hours: 7:05 a.m.-1:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:35 p.m.
Schoolwide grade: D.
Percent proficient in reading: 28.
Percent proficient in math: 60.
Graphic Arts Academy: Courses in printing, graphic design, Web design and digital design prepare students for careers in the graphics industry. The program offers internships, job shadowing, apprenticeships and the chance to work with business partners.
DUNEDIN HIGH
1651 Pinehurst Road
Dunedin, FL 34698
(727) 469-4100
Hours: 7:05 a.m. to 1:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:35 p.m.
Schoolwide grade: D.
Percent proficient in reading: 44.
Percent proficient in math: 70.
Academy of Architectural Design and Building Technologies: Architecture students learn to use drafting tools and other instruments. Architectural design students learn computer-assisted drawing. The electrical technologies program trains students in installation, maintenance and repair of residential electrical and cable systems. The building technology program offers students hands-on experience with masonry, plumbing, carpentry, roofing, HVAC, tiling, drywall and painting.
Discovery night: 6-8 p.m. Jan. 27.
EAST LAKE HIGH
1300 Silver Eagle Drive
Tarpon Springs, FL 34688
(727) 942-5419
Hours: 7:05 a.m. to 1:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:35 p.m.
Schoolwide grade: B.
Percent proficient in reading: 62.
Percent proficient in math: 90.
Academy of Engineering: Newly designated as a center of excellence. Focus on science, technology, engineering, math and robotics. A four-year curriculum provided by Project Lead the Way through the Rochester Institute of Technology offers an introduction to engineering, computer integrated manufacturing, digital electronics, principles of engineering, civil architecture, and engineering design and development.
Discovery night: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Jan. 28.
LAKEWOOD HIGH
1400 54th Ave. S
St. Petersburg, FL 33712
(727) 893-2916
Hours: 7:05 a.m. to 1:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:35 p.m.
Schoolwide grade: D.
Percent proficient in reading: 45.
Percent proficient in math: 67.
Academy for Marine Science and Environmental Technology: Emphasis on environmental sciences, ecology, marine biology, water resource conservation and problem-based, hands-on learning. Program makes use of a 5-acre outdoor classroom that includes a natural spring-fed pond.
NORTHEAST HIGH
5500 16th St. N
St. Petersburg, FL 33703
(727) 570-3138
Hours: 7:05 a.m. to 1:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:35 p.m.
Schoolwide grade: C.
Percent proficient in reading: 37.
Percent proficient in math: 65.
Automotive Academy: Students are introduced to careers such as automotive service technician, automotive sales representative, dealership manager and insurance adjuster. Advanced education includes cooperative education experiences and on-the-job training.
Academy of Finance: Newly designated as a center of excellence. A college preparatory program with coursework in computers, economics, finance, accounting, banking and financial planning. Students take specialized courses each semester and dual-enrollment courses during their senior year. They participate in job shadowing and paid internships and gain real-world experience working in an on-campus credit union.
Academy of Information Technology: The curriculum focuses on six areas: technical support, networking, databases, programming, Web design and multimedia. In its fourth year, the program incorporates hands-on labs, field trips, integration of academic courses, job shadowing and a paid internship.
Discovery night: 6:30-8 p.m. Jan. 28.
TARPON SPRINGS HIGH
1411 Gulf Road
Tarpon Springs, FL 34689
(727) 943-4900
Hours: 7:05 a.m. to 1:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:35 p.m.
School grade: D.
Percent proficient in reading: 47.
Percent proficient in math: 77.
Jacobson Culinary Arts Academy: Students gain restaurant and food service skills through academic and workplace experiences that prepare them for careers in the restaurant and food service industry.
Veterinary Science Academy: Prepares students for careers including veterinarian, veterinary surgical assistant and veterinarian assistant. Students assist veterinarians in the school's surgical suite. They also operate a dog day care and grooming facility.
Discovery night: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Jan. 21.
Middle schools
Magnet programs
BAY POINT MIDDLE
2151 62nd Ave. S
St. Petersburg, FL 33712
(727) 893-1153
Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 3 p.m.
Schoolwide grade: B.
Percent proficient in reading: 64.
Percent proficient in math: 64.
Center for Advancement of the Sciences and Technology: Emphasis on math, science, technology and world language (Spanish and German). Qualified gifted students are enrolled in Mathematics Education for Gifted Secondary School Students in grades 6-8. Qualified gifted students in grades 7-8 are enrolled in Integrated Mathematics and Science with Technology.
JOHN HOPKINS MIDDLE
701 16th St. S
St. Petersburg, FL 33705
(727) 893-2400
Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 3 p.m.
School grade: B.
Percent proficient in reading: 64.
Percent proficient in math: 61.
Center for the Arts and Communication Studies: Opportunities for students in three strands: fine and performing arts, literary arts and global studies. Facilities include a professional quality theater, an arts complex for the visual and performing arts, labs for advanced studies in science, computers and multimedia technology, a newsroom for journalism students and a TV studio.
Discovery night: 6-8 p.m. Jan. 26.
Fundamental programs
THURGOOD MARSHALL FUNDAMENTAL
3901 22nd Ave. S
St. Petersburg, FL 33711
(727) 552-1737
Hours: 7:20 a.m. to 2:05 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:50 p.m.
School grade: A.
Percent proficient in reading: 69.
Percent proficient in math: 59.
Discovery night: 6-8 p.m. Jan. 27.
CLEARWATER FUNDAMENTAL *
(Formerly Coachman Fundamental and Kennedy Middle)
1660 Palmetto St.
Clearwater, FL 33755
(727) 298-1609
MADEIRA BEACH FUNDAMENTAL MIDDLE *
(Formerly Southside Fundamental and Madeira Beach Middle)
591 Tom Stuart Causeway
Madeira Beach, FL 33708
(727) 547-7697
* These schools were formed last year after the closing of several middle schools. No grades are available for these new schools.
Middle school centers for gifted studies
The centers provide a full-time gifted program for students. The program covers math, English, science and social studies and electives. For the 2010-11 school year, the centers will enroll only sixth- and seventh-graders. Eighth-grade classes will be added the following year. Students must meet state requirements for gifted placement and must have a gifted educational plan, according to Pinellas schools. The centers are available at three schools:
DUNEDIN HIGHLAND MIDDLE
17 Patricia Ave.
Dunedin, FL 34698
(727) 469-4112
Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 3 p.m.
School grade: B.
Percent proficient in reading: 65.
Percent proficient in math: 58.
Discovery night: 6-8 p.m. Jan. 19.
MORGAN FITZGERALD MIDDLE
6410 118th Ave. N
Largo, FL 33773
(727) 547-4526
Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 3 p.m.
School grade: B.
Percent proficient in reading: 62.
Percent proficient in math: 61.
Discovery night: 6-8 p.m. Jan. 20.
THURGOOD MARSHALL FUNDAMENTAL
3901 22nd Ave. S
St. Petersburg, FL 33711
(727) 552-1737
Hours: 7:20 a.m. to 2:05 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:50 p.m.
School grade: A.
Percent proficient in reading: 69.
Percent proficient in math: 59.
Discovery night: 6-8 p.m. Jan. 27.
Elementary schools
Magnet programs
BAY POINT ELEMENTARY
5800 22nd St. S
St. Petersburg, FL 33712
(727) 552-1449
Hours: 8:35 a.m. to 2:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:50 p.m.
School grade: A.
Percent proficient in reading: 80.
Percent proficient in math: 72.
Center for Advancement of the Sciences and Technology: Emphasis on math, science, Spanish, technology and hands-on experience. School built in 2001. Features include science and computer labs, daily Spanish instruction in all grades and TV production studio.
Discovery night: 6-7 p.m. Jan. 20.
MELROSE ELEMENTARY
1752 13th Ave. S
St. Petersburg, FL 33712
(727) 893-2175
Hours: 8:35 a.m. to 2:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:50 p.m.
School grade: C.
Percent proficient in reading: 57.
Percent proficient in math: 47.
Center for Journalism & Multimedia Studies Communication and Mass Media: Students in all grades learn to be news reporters, photographers, editors and better communicators. Taught by journalists, they produce a newspaper in a real newsroom setting with laptops and digital cameras.
PERKINS ELEMENTARY
2205 18th Ave. S
St. Petersburg, FL 33712
(727) 893-2117
Hours: 8:35 a.m. to 2:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:50 p.m.
School grade: A.
Percent proficient in reading: 84.
Percent proficient in math: 78.
Center for the Arts and International Studies: After early-grades instruction in music, art, dance, theater, keyboard, violin and band, fourth- and fifth-graders choose an arts focus. Campus includes a 250-seat theater. Daily Spanish instruction. Older students get laptops.
RIDGECREST ELEMENTARY
1901 119th St. N
Largo, FL 33778
(727) 588-3580
Hours: 8:35 a.m. to 2:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:50 p.m.
School grade: B.
Percent proficient in reading: 86.
Percent proficient in math: 84.
Center for Gifted Studies: First- through fifth-graders who qualify as gifted learn "at an accelerated pace in an intellectually challenging environment." School has magnet and nonmagnet students. Regular tours.
Discovery night: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Jan. 21.
JAMES B. SANDERLIN ELEMENTARY
2350 22nd Ave. S
St. Petersburg, FL 33712
(727) 552-1700
Hours: 8:35 a.m. to 2:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:50 p.m.
School grade: C.
Percent proficient in reading: 60.
Percent proficient in math: 55.
International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme World School: The program "focuses on the development of the whole child." A hands-on liberal arts curriculum encourages students to ask questions, be creative, think critically and solve problems.
DOUGLAS L. JAMERSON JR. ELEMENTARY
1200 37th St. S
St. Petersburg, FL 33711
(727) 552-1703
Hours: 8:35 a.m. to 2:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:50 p.m.
School grade: A.
Percent proficient in reading: 70.
Proficient in math: 70.
Center for Mathematics and Engineering: Math and engineering are emphasized in all grades, and engineering concepts are used to teach all subjects.
Area magnets
CAMPBELL PARK ELEMENTARY
1051 Seventh Ave. S
St. Petersburg, FL 33705
(727) 893-2650
Hours: 8:35 a.m. to 2:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:50 p.m.
School grade: C.
Percent proficient in reading: 61.
Percent proficient in math: 58.
Marine Science Center: A marine science theme is part of the daily curriculum, using touch tanks, hands-on learning, study trips and guest speakers. The school, rebuilt in 2003, has aquariums in every classroom and a marine science lab.
GULFPORT ELEMENTARY
2014 52nd St. S
Gulfport, FL 33707
(727) 893-2643
Hours: 8:35 a.m. to 2:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:50 p.m.
School grade: C.
Percent proficient in reading: 63.
Percent proficient in math: 56.
Montessori Academy: Rebuilt in 2003, the school offers traditional education and a separate Montessori Academy. Montessori's premise is that young children can benefit more from self-directed learning than traditional methods. Students are in "multi-age classrooms with individualized, student-led instruction in prepared environments."
Discovery night: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Jan. 21.
LAKEWOOD ELEMENTARY
4151 Sixth St. S
St. Petersburg, FL 33705
(727) 893-2196
Hours: 8:35 a.m. to 2:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:50 p.m.
School grade: C.
Percent proficient in reading: 56.
Percent proficient in math: 55.
Center for Medical Science and Wellness: Curriculum incorporates anatomy and physiology, the history of medicine, personal health, emotional wellness and environmental stewardship.
Discovery night: 6-7 p.m. Jan. 25.
MAXIMO ELEMENTARY
4850 31st St. S
St. Petersburg, FL 33712
(727) 893-2191
Hours: 8:35 a.m. to 2:50 p.m., Wednesday dismissal: 12:50 p.m.
School grade: B.
Percent proficient in reading: 62.
Percent proficient in math: 68.
MicroSociety and Visual Arts: Puts learning in a real-world context. Students study traditional academic subjects in the morning, then apply them "on the job" during the afternoon, learning to run businesses, apply technology, develop government and social agencies and create cultural and arts organizations.
Discovery night: 6-7 p.m. Jan. 27.
Fundamental programs
BAY VISTA FUNDAMENTAL ELEMENTARY
5900 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St. S
St. Petersburg, FL 33705
(727) 893-2335
Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
School grade: A.
Percent proficient in reading: 84.
Percent proficient in math: 88.
Discovery night: 6:30-8 p.m. Jan. 26.
LAKEVIEW FUNDAMENTAL ELEMENTARY
2229 25th St. S
St. Petersburg, FL 33712
(727) 893-2139
Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
School grade: A.
Percent proficient in reading: 93.
Percent proficient in math: 92.
Discovery night: 6-7 p.m. Jan. 19.
PASADENA FUNDAMENTAL ELEMENTARY
95 72nd St. N
St. Petersburg, FL 33710
(727) 893-2646
Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
School grade: A.
Percent proficient in reading: 90.
Percent proficient in math: 85.
CURTIS FUNDAMENTAL ELEMENTARY
531 Beltrees St.
Dunedin, FL 34698
(727) 738-6483
Hours: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
School grade: A.
Percent proficient in reading: 93.
Percent proficient in math: 92.
TARPON SPRINGS FUNDAMENTAL ELEMENTARY
400 E Harrison St.
Tarpon Springs, FL 34689
(727) 943-5508
Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
School grade: A.
Percent proficient in reading: 98.
Percent proficient in math: 97.
Discovery night: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Jan. 21.
Charter schools
ACADEMIE DA VINCI
1380 Pinehurst Road
Dunedin, FL 34698
(727) 298-2778
Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
School grade: Not available.
Percent proficient in reading: 91.
Percent proficient in math: 87.
Program description: For children in grades K-5. Arts are integrated into the curriculum, and every student takes part in music, dance, drama and visual arts classes. All students participate in student shows twice a year.
ATHENIAN ACADEMY
2817 St. Marks Drive
Dunedin, FL 34698
(727) 298-2718
Hours: 8:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.
School grade: B.
Percent proficient in reading: 74.
Percent proficient in math: 58.
Program description: For grades K-8. Students learn Greek and Spanish through the immersion method. During some periods, math classes are taught only in one of the two foreign languages. At other times, math is taught in English. Other subjects are taught in English, often using hands-on activities.
PINELLAS PREPARATORY ACADEMY
2300 Belcher Road S
Largo, FL 33771
(727) 536-3600
Hours: 8 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.
School grade: A.
Percent proficient in reading: 78.
Percent proficient in math: 80.
Program description: For grades 4-8. Curriculum includes language arts, math, science, social studies, music, art, Spanish and advanced math. Teaching focuses on creativity, interdisciplinary approaches to learning, and fostering of each student's talents.
PLATO ACADEMY
401 Old Coachman Road S
Clearwater, FL 33765
(727) 793-2400
Hours: 8:40 a.m. to 3:10 p.m.
School grade: A.
Percent proficient in reading: 95.
Percent proficient in math: 84.
Program description: For grades K-8. The focus is on reading, math and Greek as a second language. Other subjects include science, the humanities, music, drama and art. Teachers use the Socratic method, emphasizing discussion and dialogue.
ST. PETERSBURG COLLEGIATE HIGH SCHOOL
6605 Fifth Ave. N
St. Petersburg, FL 33710
(727) 341-4610
Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
School grade: A.
Percent proficient in reading: 91.
Percent proficient in math: 100.
Program description: For serious students in grades 10-12. Each follows an individualized program that melds high school and college-level coursework. Some students graduate having completed college-level work, others with an associate's degree in addition to their high school diploma.
LIFE SKILLS CENTER
4901 Central Ave.
St. Petersburg, FL 33710
(727) 322-1758
Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
School grade: not available.
Percent proficient in reading and math: not available.
Program description: For students struggling with traditional high school. Curriculum combines academics, life skills preparation and workplace training. Students attend a four-hour session each day, five days a week, plus five hours of "learning opportunities" in volunteering, counseling and other areas.
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