Take Stock in Children identifies and empowers high-achieving, low-income public school students through holistic support, providing opportunities and lasting connections that serve students well beyond their school years. With continued support and programming that helps keep students on track, Take Stock in Children is designed to support their journeys towards a brighter future.
What is the Take Stock in Children Program?
Take Stock in Children is a state-wide initiative offered to public school students in grades seven through twelve, allowing them to receive guidance and support from a caring, compassionate adult. The program is designed to provide opportunities for underrepresented, yet academically qualified, students. By providing opportunities for obtaining their degree, Take Stock in Children ensures each mentee has opportunities that otherwise would not be available, making this mentorship program in Tampa Bay a pivotal resource in the community.
Through mentoring, scholarships, and college preparation support, this program provides resources and guidance that ensure success for students who need extra support to reach their full potential. With over $500,000 in Take Stock in Children scholarships awarded in the 2023-2024 school year, the program continually fulfills its promise to help those achieve their goals and pursue higher education.
Results of the Take Stock in Children Program
The impact of Take Stock in Children is undeniable year over year. In the 2023-2024 school year, the Take Stock in Children program saw 97.5% of their senior class graduate from high school, over 5,000 mentor sessions completed, and 314 students served through college success coach visits that ensure personalized support throughout the school year.
Melanie Naranjo-Bravo, a student from the Take Stock in Children program, shared their feelings on the program by saying, “The best part of TSIC is having the tremendous support within arm’s reach, as well as getting to meet so many genuinely kind people who have guided me in multiple ways.”
Support doesn’t stop at secondary education! Nearly 200 students in the past year were able to be part of 15 college exposure experiences, touring in person and attending webinars at some of Florida’s best colleges, ensuring that those who graduated last year were prepared for postsecondary education and could clearly see their options after graduation.
Mentee Eligibility Requirements
Take Stock in Children is available to students who meet the criteria set in place by the state-wide organization. To apply for the program, students:
- Must be in 6th, 7th, 8th or 9th grade
- Must be enrolled in a Hillsborough County Public School
- Must financially qualify. Family income eligibility guidelines are here.
- Must have a minimum unweighted GPA of 2.5
If you are reading the above and you know a student who fits the bill, or are a student yourself who meets those requirements and is looking for a mentorship program in Tampa Bay, we encourage you to share or complete an application! The application process is straightforward, and if you are selected, the next steps include an interview with our team at Hillsborough Education Foundation and potential selection to become a Take Stock in Children Scholar.
Being selected is a high honor and comes with additional commitments to ensure success in the program. Meeting with an assigned mentor regularly, promising to maintain good grades, and exhibiting good behavior are crucial in keeping good standing, but can also be a great outlet for high-achieving students who need a little extra support.
Support Take Stock in Children Today for a Better Future Tomorrow
Committing your time by becoming a mentor or donating to support TSIC is a great way to get involved in your community and help students succeed. Learn more about becoming a mentor or donate today to help fund the Take Stock in Children scholarships and help students achieve their goals.
