SCOPE, Student Center of Postsecondary Exploration, is a transformative initiative designed to help students plan for life after graduation in Hillsborough County. Launched in 2022 at King High School and developed and managed by Hillsborough Education Foundation, the program establishes on-campus college and career centers to help students explore postsecondary pathways and make college and career planning accessible. Since then, SCOPE has served four additional schools including Brandon, Spoto, Lennard, and East Bay High Schools.
Supported by LEAP Tampa Bay and the Community Foundation of Tampa Bay, the program began its first year of service at Lennard High School and East Bay High School during the 2024-25 school year.
At the centers, students receive personalized support, including:
- One-on-one college and career advising
- Help with college applications and financial aid
- Guidance on trade schools and programs
- Exploration of post-high school options
At both schools, SCOPE focused on building a strong postsecondary culture. This included college admissions sessions, FAFSA workshops, classroom presentations, career exploration events, and parent engagement activities. In collaboration with the Workforce Program Advisor, SCOPE hosted 12 workshops designed to expose students to diverse college and career pathways, assist with postsecondary applications, and guide them through completing financial aid applications for FAFSA, Bright Futures, and scholarships.
“Many students face challenges with postsecondary planning when they don’t have the guidance or support. SCOPE fills this gap by providing individualized, on-campus advising,” said Jennifer Libby, director of LEAP Tampa Bay. “Students receive consistent, personalized support with exploring options, completing applications, securing financial aid, and creating clear plans for their futures.”
Beginning this school year, the program will be implemented at all 29 high schools across the county, reaching more students with essential resources and support. This expansion is made possible through a partnership between Hillsborough Education Foundation (HEF) and Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS).
“From the start, SCOPE has been about more than access—it’s about ensuring students have the support and guidance they need to pursue their goals with confidence,” said Anna Corman, President & CEO of HEF. “This expansion is a powerful example of what’s possible through strong partnerships. From donors and district leaders to school counselors and community partners, this has truly been a shared effort. We’re proud to be a strategic partner with Hillsborough County Public Schools and honored to continue supporting this important initiative as it reaches every high school in the district.”
This expansion is part of a broader effort led by Florida College Access Network, in partnership with the Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation, through a two-year initiative aimed at increasing college-going rates by at least 4% for the graduating Classes of 2025 and 2026. The Post-High School College Enrollment Innovation project highlights the importance of a student-centered approach in boosting college and career readiness.
With SCOPE now at every high school in Hillsborough County, all students will have the opportunity to plan for their future. Whether pursuing a degree, earning a certification, or entering the workforce, SCOPE ensures students are informed, prepared, and empowered.