In 2021 Florida signed legislation allowing state universities and Florida College System institutions to solicit applications and sponsor charter schools with a goal of creating lifelong learners and contributors to society through STEM careers and continued education. Now, two years later, the results are in. Florida Technology Magazine tips our hat to these progressive and insightful leaders. They clearly knocked this one out of the park!
Empowering Tomorrow’s Innovators: A High School Blueprint for Future-Ready Students
By Jessica Chapman, Principal – Tallahassee Collegiate Academy
As the digital age continues to evolve, one question echoes through the halls of education: How can we prepare today’s students for the world of tomorrow? At Tallahassee Collegiate Academy (TCA), we serve as a catalyst for shaping the innovators and leaders of tomorrow. We need to prepare our students to be Future Ready.
Founded by Moore Agency CEO and Tallahassee Community College (TCC) Trustee Karen Moore in 2023, TCA is a STEM-focused public charter high school based in Tallahassee. Our vision and mission are centered around preparing students for high-demand, high-wage careers. We integrate college degree pathways through a dual enrollment program to allow students to simultaneously earn their high school diploma and an Associate of Science (AS) degree in fields such as artificial intelligence, cyber security, and engineering technology. TCA is a game changer, offering a first-of-its-kind educational experience for students.
What makes TCA different?
We understand that being Future Ready means more than just mastering academic subjects; it requires a dynamic blend of knowledge, skills, and practical abilities and experiences coupled with soft skills and a vision for the future. To achieve this, our curriculum is centered around project-based learning and place-based educational experiences where students are collaboratively engaging with the content and mastering Florida Standards by solving real-world problems. Project-based learning instills not just knowledge, but a set of versatile skills and a mindset that will assist students in their college courses and enable them to thrive in their future workplace. Place-based education allows us to work in partnership with our community to leverage authentic, hands-on experiences. We have created a school environment that fosters creativity, critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving.
A key factor in our mission at TCA includes the integration of AS dual enrollment pathways in partnership with TsC. This opportunity accelerates a student’s academic journey, saving them time and money. Students can immerse themselves in college-level coursework while remaining anchored and supported by their high school to nurture their confidence and independence. After graduation, every student is ready to enter the workforce in their respective career field.
TCA is not just a place of learning. It is a hub of innovation and a launchpad for future leaders and trailblazers. We are shaping a generation that is academically proficient and poised to make meaningful contributions to society. Together with TSC, we are building a future where our students are not just prepared for the world and workforce - they are empowered to lead and shape it.
Starting mid-January, Tallahassee Collegiate Academy will be enrolling new students for the 2024-25 academic year. For more information about academic pursuits at TCA, or to partner with TCA, please contact Jessica Chapman at Jessica.Chapman@tsc.fl.edu
