Preparing Tomorrow’s Workforce Begins Today

Hillsborough Education Foundation is committed to providing all students with equitable access to high-quality public education, ensuring they graduate ready for postsecondary education, career opportunities, and lifelong success.

We empower every student to achieve academic and personal success, recognizing that preparing them for postsecondary education and career pathways is essential to building a strong workforce. By providing the tools and resources necessary for both academic growth and real-world experience, we foster the development of skills that drive student success and create a talent pipeline for a sustainable, thriving workforce in Tampa Bay’s future.

College and Career Centers

Research shows that students begin forming career plans as early as 9th grade, yet many lack the guidance of a supportive adult. High school counselors, overwhelmed by large caseloads and the growing mental health needs of students, often struggle to provide personalized college and career planning support.

In partnership with Hillsborough County Public Schools, Hillsborough Education Foundation’s onsite college and career centers offer 1:1 coaching to high school students through SCOPE (Student Center of Postsecondary Exploration).

At SCOPE, 9th-12th graders receive personalized support to create a post-graduation success plan, explore college, technical college, and career pathways, apply for financial aid (Bright Futures, FAFSA, and more), complete college applications, pursue technical and workforce credentials, and prepare for SAT/ACT testing.

Career exploration helps students develop their skills and interests, setting goals that lead to meaningful workforce opportunities.