Polk State’s collegiate high schools to launch 10th grade
Polk State College’s collegiate high schools are launching 10th grade to expand accelerated learning opportunities and preparation for students interested in the collegiate program. Polk State Chain of Lakes Collegiate High School and Polk State Lakeland Collegiate High School will be accepting applications for the 2024-2025 Academic Year through March 1.
Chain of Lakes Collegiate on the Polk State Winter Haven Campus and Lakeland Collegiate on the Lakeland Campus now serve 10th, 11th, and 12th grades and allow students to complete college credits and high school requirements simultaneously, at no cost to them. In most cases, students graduate with both their high school diplomas and college degrees.
Since their inceptions, Polk State Chain of Lakes and Polk State Lakeland Collegiate have received A grades from the Florida Department of Education. They have also received the Governor’s School Recognition Award. The schools boast 100% graduation rates. Of the 370 students who graduated in 2023, nearly 73% received their Polk State Associate in Arts degrees and students earned on average 55 college credits. Additionally, students collectively earned more than $2.7 million in scholarships.
Enrolling for 10th grade will provide extra preparation for students integrating into the blended high school-college campus experience. The 10th grade will include a college success class and focus on completing state high school testing requirements so that the 11th and 12th grades are full or close-to-full integration into college courses.
“It’s not just about free college,” Lakeland Collegiate Principal Rick Jeffries said. “It’s about full immersion into the college experience, the smaller class sizes, the safe learning community, and the extra support and preparation we provide students to ensure that they are successful in our program and beyond.”
“It’s not just dual enrollment, it’s full involvement,” Chain of Lakes Collegiate Principal Patrice Thigpen added. “Students benefit from college prep, flexible scheduling, and a personalized learning experience while still being able to enjoy activities including student clubs, athletics, homecoming, and prom.”
Both principals expressed that although the programs are rigorous, they have built-in support to help ensure the success of their students.
“At Collegiate, we work closely with students to build their confidence and leadership skills, and to create connections and a culture for success,” Thigpen said.
“It’s not the same as a big high school; at Polk State’s collegiate high schools, you get that one-on-one time with your professors, advisors, and peers,” Jeffries added.
Each school has its own free, online application. Students who are interested in applying should monitor polk.edu/collegiate for the opening of the applications, which will be available through March 1. The schools will also hold the following info sessions for interested students and guardians.
Polk State Lakeland Collegiate High School Info Sessions
Tuesday, November 28 | 6:30 p.m.
Polk State Lakeland Campus | 3425 Winter Lake Road | LTB 1100
Thursday, January 25 | 6:30 p.m.
Polk State Lakeland Campus | 3425 Winter Lake Road | LTB 1100
Monday, February 12 | 6:30 p.m.
Polk State Lakeland Campus | 3425 Winter Lake Road | LTB 1100
Polk State Chain of Lakes Collegiate High School Info Sessions
Wednesday, December 6 | 6:30 p.m.
Polk State Winter Haven Campus | 999 Ave. H N.E. | WST 126
Thursday, January 18 | 6:30 p.m.
Polk State Winter Haven Campus | 999 Ave. H N.E. | WST 126
Tuesday, January 23 | 6:30 p.m.
Polk State Winter Haven Campus | 999 Ave. H N.E. | WST 126
Thursday, February 8 | 6:30 p.m.
Polk State Winter Haven Campus | 999 Ave. H N.E. | WST 126
Tuesday, February 13 | 6:30 p.m.
Polk State Winter Haven Campus | 999 Ave. H N.E. | WST 126