News Summary
Florida State University Panama City’s Collegiate School has earned an ‘A’ grade from the state for the second consecutive year, emphasizing its commitment to academic excellence. Established in August 2023 with a significant grant, the school focuses on dual enrollment and career technical education. With nearly 200 students currently enrolled, the school prioritizes military families and reflects rapid growth. Future developments include expanded facilities and programs that promote STEAM education, preparing students for diverse career paths. The school is recognized as the highest-ranked educational institution in Bay County.
Panama City, Florida – Florida State University Panama City’s Collegiate School Achieves A Grade for Second Consecutive Year
Florida State University Panama City’s Collegiate School has maintained its high academic standards by earning an A grade from the state of Florida for the second year in a row. This recognition highlights the school’s commitment to educational excellence and student achievement, positioning it as a leading institution in Bay County.
School Establishment and Funding
The Collegiate School was officially established in August 2023. Its founding was made possible through a significant start-up grant of $7.6 million provided by Triumph Gulf Coast. As a developmental laboratory high school, it aims to innovate traditional education with a focus on dual enrollment and career technical education.
Student Body and Enrollment
The school initially opened its doors to a cohort of 100 ninth-grade students. Plans are underway to admit an additional 100 freshmen in 2024. The current student population includes nearly 200 students in the 9th and 10th grades, reflecting rapid growth since its inception. The third cohort of freshmen is scheduled to begin classes on August 11.
Admission Preferences and Location
The Collegiate School prioritizes children from military families, although it accepts students from various middle schools across Bay County. Located at 2430 St. Andrews Blvd, Panama City, Florida, the school offers accessible educational opportunities within the community.
Academic Performance and Evaluation
The school’s ‘A’ grade is based on a comprehensive grading system that considers factors such as student achievement, learning gains, and college and career accomplishments. These metrics provide a transparent measure of the school’s performance for parents and the public, and its sustained success underscores its effective educational strategies.
Facilities and Future Developments
The 11th-grade students currently attend classes at the former campus, but plans are in place for them to move into renovated facilities on the FSU Panama City campus. This transition aims to enhance the learning environment and provide access to additional resources.
Leadership and Community Engagement
Debbi Whitaker, the school’s director, attributes the school’s success to the dedication of students, families, faculty, and staff. She emphasizes that the school’s consistent ‘A’ grade signals its position as the highest-ranked educational institution in Bay County.
Upcoming Programs and Summer Institute
In June 2025, the Collegiate School will host its second Summer Institute in collaboration with the Florida State University Panama City STEM Institute. The institute will feature day camps designed for students who have completed grades seven and eight, focusing on STEAM programs—science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics.
Summer Camp Offerings
- CSI-TCS Unit (June 9-12 and July 7-10) at $140: Murder mystery role-play combined with STEM skills development.
- Creative Fusion: Art-focused sessions on various dates, costing $70, including painting and drawing activities for grades 6-10.
- Actor’s Workshop: Free session on June 10 to introduce students to acting techniques.
- The Science of Flight (June 16-19 and July 14-17) at $140: Workshops on air travel designs and rocket launches.
Career-Focused Curriculum
The school aims to prepare students for diverse careers, including emerging fields such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. Its innovative programs promote real-world skills and opportunities for students to explore different career paths.
Registration and Growth
Looking ahead, registration for new students will open in October for the upcoming academic year. The school expects continued enrollment growth and further development of its programs as it continues to serve the community.
Overall, the Florida State University Panama City’s Collegiate School’s consistent top grading reflects its dedication to providing quality education and fostering student success within Bay County.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- News Herald: FSU Panama City Collegiate High School Receives ‘A’ Grade
- Wikipedia: Florida State University
- News Herald: FSU Panama City Programs Funded
- Google Search: Florida education system
- My Panhandle: FSU Panama City Announces Second Summer Institute
- Google Scholar: Education programs Florida
- WJHG: Collegiate School FSU PC Adds New Grade Level
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Florida State University
- News Herald: Summertime Fun and Learning at Collegiate School FSU-PC
- Google News: Florida education news
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