Seamless School Transitions: Unveiling Hillsborough's Support for Military Families

Military Families Overview - Hillsborough County Public Schools

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Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) offers comprehensive support to military families enrolling their children in local schools. Acknowledging the unique challenges faced by military-connected students, HCPS provides specialized resources to facilitate a smooth transition.

Key Resources and Services:

• Military Liaison:HCPS has a dedicated Military Liaison, Kim Sukach, who can be contacted at (813) 272-4692, to assist with the enrollment process and address any concerns specific to military families.
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• School Enrollment Information:Detailed information regarding enrollment procedures, required documentation, and school choice options is available on the HCPS enrollment page.
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• Exceptional Student Education (ESE):For children requiring special education services, HCPS provides tailored support. Families can contact the Choice Information Line at (813) 272-4692, identifying themselves as transitioning military families, to connect with the Exceptional Student Education Department.
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• Mental Health Resources:Recognizing the emotional challenges that may accompany military life, HCPS offers mental health support through school counselors, psychologists, and social workers. Additionally, families can connect with Military Family Life Counselors via the MacDill Air Force Base School Liaison Officer, Venetia Waters, at (813) 828-0146 or venetia.waters@us.af.mil.
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• Student Transition Programs:Many HCPS schools have established programs to assist new military students in acclimating to their environment. For example, the "Anchored4Life" program at Ballast Point Elementary provides peer support to help students transition smoothly.
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For families residing on MacDill Air Force Base, specific schools are designated based on grade levels:

• Tinker K-8 School:Serving elementary students.
• Monroe Middle School:For middle school students.
• Robinson High School:For high school students.

Transportation is provided by the school system from the base to these schools.

MacDill Air Force Base

To initiate the enrollment process or learn more about the available resources, it's recommended to contact the HCPS Military Liaison or visit the HCPS website. Early engagement with the school district can significantly enhance the transition experience for military families and their children.

To support military families with the challenges that may accompany military life, HCPS provides mental health assistance through school counselors, psychologists, and social workers. Families can also connect with Military Family Life Counselors through the MacDill Air Force Base School Liaison Officer, Venetia Waters, at (813) 828-0146 or [venetia.waters@us.af.mil](mailto:venetia.waters@us.af.mil).

Student Transition Programs: Many HCPS schools have developed programs to help new military students adapt to their new environment. For instance, the "Anchored4Life" program at Ballast Point Elementary offers peer support for a smoother transition. Learn more about Hillsborough Schools.

For families living on MacDill Air Force Base, specific schools serve different grade levels:

• Tinker K-8 School:For elementary students.
• Monroe Middle School:For middle school students.
• Robinson High School:For high school students.

Transportation is available from the base to these schools. Learn more about MacDill Air Force Base.

To start the enrollment process or discover more about the available resources, it is advisable to contact the HCPS Military Liaison or visit the HCPS website. Engaging with the school district early can greatly improve the transition experience for military families and their children.