Polk State College introduces block scheduling, expanded class offerings at JD Alexander Center in Lake Wales

Posted on by Polk Newsroom

Polk State College is expanding its academic offerings and support services at the JD Alexander Center at 152 E. Central Ave. in Lake Wales to enhance services and opportunities for students in the surrounding community.

Beginning this fall, students will have access to three block schedule options that allow them to take in-person classes back-to-back just two days per week, helping them maintain full-time enrollment while balancing work, family, and other responsibilities. Maintaining full-time status is essential for many students to meet financial aid and scholarship requirements.

Each block schedule is designed to meet students at different points in their academic journey:

  • Block 1 on Mondays and Wednesdays is tailored to first-time-in-college students and includes Intermediate Algebra, Composition I, a Humanities course, and the required First-Year Seminar college success course.
  • Block 2 on Mondays and Wednesdays is suited for students in their second semester and features College Algebra, Composition II, and Introduction to Psychology.
  • Block 3 on Tuesdays and Thursdays offers Composition II, American Government, Computers for Business, and Earth Science.

While these structured blocks offer efficiency and convenience, students retain the flexibility to add courses outside of the blocks to fit their individual needs. The College also plans to expand its Saturday and evening class offerings at the Center.

In addition to convenient scheduling, the JD Alexander Center also provides advising, student life opportunities, and tutoring services to help students reinforce their understanding of course material.

“These initiatives reflect our continued commitment to meeting students where they are and supporting their success both inside and outside the classroom,” said Polk State Provost Amy Bratten. “We are proud to strengthen our presence in Lake Wales and provide more accessible pathways to higher education.”

Browse course offerings by clicking here.

Complete a free online application to the College by clicking here. Currently enrolled students can register for classes now in the Polk Portal. Fall 2025 Semester classes will start on August 11.

Email lakewales@polk.edu for assistance specific to attending the JD Alexander Center in Lake Wales.