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Alternative Schools and Other Services
Polk County Public Schools operates a wide range of programs, centers and services to meet the needs of students. Visit this page to learn more about our Opportunity Centers, Teenage Parent Program and more.
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Cambridge AICE
This challenging international curriculum emphasizes a broad and balanced study that requires an in-depth understanding of subjects. Students develop skills such as critical reasoning, research, teamwork and argumentation. They are able to tailor their studies to their interests, abilities and future goals. Cambridge AICE is available at Winter Haven High School.
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Career Academies
Career academies are small, personalized learning communities within a elementary, middle or high school that focus on a specific field of study, such as the health sciences, business, or aerospace. Students must apply and be accepted with parental knowledge and support. Many of our career academies have received national certifications.
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Charter Schools
Charter schools are independent public schools that operate under a performance contract (or “charter”) with defined rules and regulations. Visit this page for a list of local charter schools, and contact information for our district’s charter school office.
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Controlled Open Enrollment
During controlled open enrollment, parents seeking additional choice options for their students can apply for placement in any school in the state that has not reached capacity and still has seats available. The goal is to promote and encourage parental involvement and ensure students have access to a school that meets their needs.
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ESE & Learning Centers
Exceptional Student Education (ESE) programs serve students from preschool through age 22. We offer transition programs that help students become functional adults, as well as support services such as physical therapy and mental health counseling. ESE services are available at schools throughout our district, as well as at three learning centers for students with severe exceptionalities.
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Fine Arts
These schools offer high-quality academic programs combined with an emphasis on rigorous study in performing and fine arts areas, including visual arts, dance, theatre and music.
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Fresh Start Program
The Fresh Start Program allows students who have dropped out of the educational system the opportunity to receive an accredited high school diploma.
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GED
Earning a State of Florida High School Diploma opens the door to new opportunities and pathways in your life! More than 860,000 adults worldwide take the GED test each year.
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Home School
Home education allows parents the freedom to choose and direct the educational programs that best meet their child’s needs. Polk County Public Schools provides families with information that will help them establish a home education program, as well as resources to enhance the child’s educational experience.
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International Baccalaureate
International Baccalaureate (IB) is a demanding academic program through which students earn college credits and develop the skills and knowledge they will need to succeed at the postsecondary level. IB is available at the elementary-, middle- and high-school levels.
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Magnet/Choice
Our magnet and choice schools offer unique themes designed to provide a rigorous academic program focused around specific areas of student interest, such as the arts, International Baccalaureate or STEM.
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Virtual School
Polk County Public Schools offers virtual school options for students at the elementary-, middle-, and high-school levels. Students may participate in part- or full-time instructional programs. Our virtual schools aim to equip students with the academic and technological skills they’ll need to succeed.