Hillsborough County Public Schools Outperform state graduation rate for first time in five years
Hillsborough County Public Schools is celebrating a graduation rate of 87.9 percent for the 2021-2022 academic year, a nearly two-point increase from pre-pandemic levels. It also marks the first time since 2017 that HCPS students have outperformed the state graduation rate.
Plant City’s high schools have graduation rates well-above the average for Hillsborough County. Plant City High School has a graduation rate of 96.2 percent. Strawberry Crest High School has a graduation rate of 97.2 percent. Durant High School has a graduation rate of 91.5 percent.
“This accomplishment is about more than a number. Our students, families, and staff have contended with a worldwide pandemic that created struggles that extended far outside the classroom. This is an impressive feat that is directly related to the tireless efforts of dedicated teachers, school-based leaders, school counselors, support professionals, parents, and community partners,” Superintendent Addison Davis said.
Marshall Middle Magnet’s Gentlemen’s Quest Club increases membership
Approximately two dozen Marshall Middle Magnet IB World School male students have been inducted into the Gentlemen’s Quest (GQ) club.
“The club creates a brotherhood that focuses on behavior and respect for each other and all mankind,” said math teacher and club sponsor Stanley Glover.
Its mission is to help students realize their full potential by making positive choices regarding their academics and behavior and equip them with the skills necessary to become productive citizens.
Glover also gives students opportunities to practice public speaking skills. Club members participated in the opening ceremony of the MLK Festival last week, reciting inspirational messages from public figures to the audience.
Comedian Dennis Gaxiola to perform at First Church of God
Laughing in church is usually frowned upon but there will be plenty of chuckles happening at First Church of God, located at 601 North Gordon Street, at 7 p.m. on Sat., Jan. 21 when nationally-renowned comedian Dennis Gaxiola, a devout Christian and one of America’s funniest clean comedians, performs his stand-up routine.
The show is being provided free of charge to the community. Gaxiola, who is known for his performances on Comedy Central’s Laffapalooza with Jamie Foxx, will also speak at the church’s 10:30 a.m. workshop service on Jan. 22. “We’re trying to bless the community with some free top-notch entertainment- a comedy show that’s family-friendly,” said Pastor Paul Flores.
Prepare now for the Plant City Garden Club Horticulture Show
Start planning now if you wish to have your plants on display at the Florida Strawberry Festival as a part of the Plant City Garden Club’s Horticulture Show.
Plants will be accepted on Tuesday, Feb. 28 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and can be dropped off at the Neighborhood Village Building, on the south side of the Administration Building right next to Gate 4, off of Berryfest Place. Eligible plant specimens to be entered into the competition must be grown by Hillsborough County residents. To enter your plants for prizes, they must be in your possession for three months prior to opening day of the Strawberry Festival. There is an exception for multiple plants (Dish Gardens, Fairy Gardens, Terrariums) which must have been in exhibitors’ possession for at least six weeks.
For the full list of rules, regulations, and awards for the contest, please visit: https://flstrawberryfestival.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/2023-Strawberry-Fest-UPDATED-Horticulture.pdf