Polk State Extends Application Deadline for New High School

Posted on by Polk Newsroom

Polk State College is offering an extended application period for those interested in attending its new public charter high school.

Prospective students now have until the first day of class, Aug. 12, to apply for admission. Students will be admitted as space is available.

“This new school is going to have a huge impact on our community, putting a high school diploma and higher education within reach for those facing truly daunting life circumstances,” said Sallie Brisbane, director of the new school, Polk State Lakeland Gateway to College Collegiate High School.

“With an extended deadline, we’re maximizing the incredible impact this school will make on individuals and the broader community.”

Polk State Lakeland Gateway to College Collegiate High School will begin classes on Aug. 12, to serve students who have dropped out of — or are unlikely to graduate from — high school.  These include students who have not attended school in at least three months, who are supporting a child or are the primary caretakers of other family members during traditional school hours, or who are homeless.

To serve its nontraditional student body, Polk State Lakeland Gateway to College will offer classes during the afternoon and evening hours and provide personalized tutoring and assistance in accessing social services. Classes will also be offered both face-to-face and online for increased accessibility.

In addition, students will be required to take at least three college courses, for a jumpstart on their postsecondary education.

“With this new high school, Polk State College will help students to overcome enormous obstacles and achieve not only their high school education, but also a jumpstart on their postsecondary education, too,” said Polk State Lakeland Provost Steve Hull. “We are creating something truly nontraditional and something that will be part of the solution for these students.”

Polk State Lakeland Gateway to College Collegiate High School is part of the Gateway to College National Network, which encompasses 43 institutions across 23 states. Gateway to College helps students facing the most difficult of circumstances to earn both a high school diploma and substantial college credit.

Polk State Lakeland Gateway to College Collegiate High School will be free to attend. The school will be located on the campus of Polk State Lakeland, 3425 Winter Lake Road.

For more information on attending Polk State Lakeland Gateway to College, contact Brisbane at sbrisbane@polk.edu or 863.669.2322.