
Metallica Scholar finds senses of stability and home at Polk State

Christopher Needham had a difficult upbringing and “had to do what I had to do to make ends meet.” But his life is now a bit easier thanks to his determination, a scholarship from Metallica’s…

Polk State professors bring science back to the labs safely for students during pandemic

It’s alive! The Polk State College science lab experience, that is. Professors have worked tirelessly to create safe, in-person opportunities that bring students onto campus for hands-on learning during the pandemic. Their hybrid courses integrate…

Polk State Chain of Lakes Collegiate High School student is National Merit finalist

Polk State Chain of Lakes Collegiate High School senior Shayna Dimmer is part of only 1 percent of the nation’s high school seniors to be named finalists in the 2021 National Merit Scholarship Program. More…

Pandemic brings three generations to Polk State Digital Media

Katelin Downing is pursuing an Associate in Science in Digital Media Technology degree at Polk State College, where she now has the company of her aunt and grandmother in their Intro to Digital Media class.…

Polk State Metallica Scholar goes from strenuous jobs to rewarding career

From working in roofing, construction, truck driving, and warehouses, Billy McGahee has spent most of his life jumping from one physically-demanding job to another. At 36, he decided it was time for a change and…

What do classes look like during the pandemic at Polk State? Digital Media explains

Polk State College offers a variety of hybrid classes, but what does “hybrid” really mean? Students, faculty, and staff with the College’s Digital Media Technology Program share what the mix of classroom and online learning…

Three Polk State employees receive national awards for excellence

The National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) has announced three Polk State College employees as recipients of 2021 Excellence Awards, which recognize individuals who have demonstrated outstanding commitment and contribution to their students…

Polk State students meet with Polk County legislators virtually to share priorities and thank them for support

Polk State College’s student leaders met with members of the Polk County Legislative Delegation via Zoom last week to share the importance of investing in Florida’s colleges and students as the state approaches the 2021…

Polk State grad says Lakeland Collegiate High School gave her tools and room to grow

For Adeika Looby, Polk State Lakeland Collegiate High School benefited her in a variety of ways, from graduating high school with a college degree for free to accelerating her path to a career in criminal…

Polk State celebrates Career and Technical Education Month® and FDOE’s Get There initiative

The month of February is widely recognized as Career and Technical Education Month® by the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) as an opportunity to celebrate the value, achievements, and accomplishments of programs across…