Parenting TAMPA BAY
NOVEMBER 2026
FOR LOCAL FAM I LI E S . BY LOCAL FAM I LI E S .
GUIDE TO TAMPA BAY AREA SCHOOLS
METROPOLITAN MINISTRIES HOLIDAY TENT:
How Your Family Can Help Make a Difference This Holiday Season
THANKSGIVING BREAK FUN: EXPLORE AMAZING THINGS TO DO WITH THE KIDS AND YOUR GUESTS IN TAMPA BAY
+ MORE
Say Hello to Sea Lions Pinniped Pier is now open, introducing sea lions at Clearwater Marine Aquarium! Come meet our newest flippered friends and explore this exciting new habitat that will inspire connections with marine life. Explore a deeper connection at cmaquarium.org.
Book your visit today.
A deeper connection
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NOVEMBER 2026 CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND EDITORIAL MANAGER Laura Byrne
ASSOCIATE EDITOR Anu Varma Panchal
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR
Articles
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
11 // Holiday Happenings: Dive into all
Zoë Joiner
Laura Byrne Tara Payor Ph.D. Hailea Boykin Brie Gorecki Laura Cross Claudia Sinram Maggie Rodriguez Courtney Cairns Pastor Julia Freeman Diana Bernal-Silva Lindsay Hermida Lauren Jamro
the holiday events that open this month to kick off the festive season
MARKETING COORDINATOR
Giving Back: The Junior League’s Holiday Gift Market returns with its beloved traditions
17 // Wild Gifts: From plushies to
experiences, ZooTampa’s got you covered with suggestions for everyone on your list
Constance Webb
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Ralf Gonzalez
23 // Holiday Shopping, Magic and
26 // COVER STORY: The Gift of Hope:
LAYOUT & DESIGN
Give your family the magic of giving back through volunteering at a Metropolitan Ministries Holiday Tent
Jennifer Dufek
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Laura Byrne Darlene Barlows Hailea Boykin Ally Twarog Claudia Sinram
30 // Family Spirit: Gather up your kids
and volunteer together for these worthy causes
BOOKKEEPING
32 // Making a Difference: What better
James Anderson
DISTRIBUTION
TGS Media Distribution, tgsmedia.com
TAMPA BAY PARENTING MAGAZINE 320 W. Kennedy Blvd. Ste. 220 Tampa, Florida 33606 Phone 813-949-4400 Fax 813-315-6688 info@tbparenting.com editor@tbparenting.com BECOME A FAN tampabayparenting @tampabayparenting
way to kick off the holiday season than by reading about these Tampa Bay residents who make their communities better every day
37 // Waiting for Happily Ever After: If
you think every child deserves a home, the Heart Gallery of Tampa shares how you can play a part
38 // Dads Figure It Out: Can’t make
YOUR GUIDE TO TAMPA BAY AREA SCHOOLS
44-61
69 // Falling into Fall: Get all the cozy autumnal vibes with these librarianpicked selections for our youngest readers
73 // Picky Eaters? No Problem: With
holiday feasts around the corner, here are some tips to accommodate the pickiest amongst us
Every Issue: 6 // Noteworthy: What’s new and GOOD in Tampa Bay
8 // November Top Picks: Our favorite things to do this month
25 // The Play List: Hop into the Bunny Hive,
where both little ones and their grownups can have just as much fun
41 // Moms to Know: Meet Meredith Andrade, radio and podcast personality
the game? Turn your ticket into lifetime family memories for someone who needs it
65 // Teacher to Know: Meet Andrew Hoy
63 // Middle School Leaders: At Corbett
78 // What’s Trending on
Prep, eighth-graders are empowered in big ways and small
67 // YAY for Our Schools: If your kid
attends a Hillsborough County Public School, here are five reasons to be thankful tampabayparenting.com
Tampa Bay Parenting is published twelve times per year and distributed throughout the Tampa Bay community. Tampa Bay Parenting is not responsible for any errors, inaccuracies, omissions or incorrect information (or the consequences related thereto) contained within the magazine or online; readers should not rely on any information contained in the magazine and they should always consult with an appropriate professional for guidance. Tampa Bay Parenting accepts no responsibility for the consequences of error or for any loss or damage suffered by users of any of the information or materials provided by Tampa Bay Parenting. Some content published by Tampa Bay Parenting is sponsored or paid for advertising content, and some individuals quoted or cited in articles have paid for advertising or sponsorships; this content or opinions do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of Tampa Bay Parenting.
2026-2027 EDUCATION GUIDE
ABOUT THE COVER: Local kids can give their time and help collect and sort donations for the Metropolitan Ministries Holiday Tent as the nonprofit prepares to serve 30,000 families in Tampa Bay this holiday season. We’ve got all the details, along with a list of the most needed items for the season. Flip to page 26 for more!
4 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2026
choral music teacher at Tampa Preparatory School TampaBayParenting.com: What readers are clicking on with expanded stories online
TGH EMERGENCY CARE: EXPERT PEDIATRIC CARE FOR YOUR WHOLE FAMILY Tampa General provides 24/7 emergency care, staffed by fellowship-trained, board-certified pediatric emergency medicine physicians, with access to the region’s only Level I Trauma Center and backed by Florida’s premier academic health system™. At the Muma Children’s Hospital at TGH, our pediatric emergency department at Davis Islands is built just for kids, with child-friendly spaces and care teams trained in pediatric emergency medicine. And our emergency centers across the region ensure your child has access to the highest level of emergency care when you need it most. TGH EMERGENCY LOCATIONS: BRANDON
BROOKSVILLE
CITRUS HILLS
CRYSTAL RIVER
10740 Palm River Road
17240 Cortez Blvd.
907 W. Norvell Bryant Highway
6201 N. Suncoast Blvd.
DAVIS ISLANDS
SOUTH TAMPA
SPRING HILL
1 Tampa General Circle
1301 W. Kennedy Blvd.
10461 Quality Drive
NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 5
NOTEWORTHY november Manatees Return to Clearwater Marine Aquarium
NEW YMCA Facility Opens in Wesley Chapel The Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA recently celebrated the opening of its newest facility, the Mary W. Sierra Family YMCA in Wesley Chapel. This beautiful two-story, 49,319-square-foot facility is home to an aquatic center with lap and teaching pools, a family adventure pool, a gymnasium, group exercise studios, a dedicated wellness area and EGYM® smart strengthtraining technology. The YMCA will offer a wide range of programs for youth, families and adults, including sports leagues and summer camps.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) recently welcomed two manatees, Axle and Gilbert, to the Dr. James “Buddy” Powell Manatee Rehabilitation Center. They arrived from ZooTampa, where they received their first stage of critical care and will now continue their rehabilitation at CMA before they are returned to Florida waters.
Boys & Girls Club of Greater Tampa Bay Time Capsule Discovery As Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tampa Bay celebrate their 100th anniversary, an unexpected discovery of a time capsule in a storage unit is revealing stories about the club’s incredible history and the people who helped make it what it is today. Among the artifacts are historical documents that offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of nearly a century ago, including a letter from then-President Herbert Hoover, a newspaper clipping about Cuba and a look at the club’s earliest days, when the organization served boys exclusively. To commemorate this milestone, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tampa Bay will open a special History Center display featuring the newly uncovered time capsule.
Merlin Entertainments Offers Free Military Tickets Merlin Entertainments is once again honoring those who serve our communities with free admission for military members, veterans and first responders at three Florida attractions. From Oct. 1 through Nov. 30, eligible guests can receive a free one-day ticket to: • LEGOLAND® Florida Resort • SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium • Madame Tussauds Orlando Additionally, eligible service members can receive 50% off one-day tickets for up to six accompanying guests.
6 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2026
Dinosaurs Are Back at ZooTampa! A few dinosaurs have been hanging out behind the scenes at ZooTampa, so the team decided to get them back into the wild for you to see! They recently unveiled “Dinos Unearthed: Mini Jurassic Trek” in the Australia realm. You’ll find it behind the playground, near the banana ride. You’ll see a few dinosaurs roaming at the base camp and learn all about these prehistoric creatures and how they relate to animals we see at ZooTampa today!
NEW Pro Women’s Basketball Team Coming to Tampa The UPSHOT League is bringing a new professional women’s basketball franchise to Tampa, beginning with the league’s 2027 season! This is exciting news that inspires our young athletes in Tampa Bay, giving them a chance to experience a professional women’s sports team in real life. The first games will tip off in May 2027 at the University of South Florida’s Yuengling Center. You can make your mark with the team by taking part in the “Name the Team” campaign now. The official name and logo unveiling will be on Dec. 1, 2026. tampaupshot.com
Visit Light the World Giving Machine! Regency Square Mall, Brandon November 16 – December 7, daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. With gifts as little as $10, you can help individuals and families in need in our community or around the world. Select from 30 meaningful charitable items, such as meals, hygiene kits, clothing, and even goats, with 100% of donations going directly to local and global charities. A special launch event on November 17 will kick off the season, followed by daily family-friendly activities at the mall.
2027 Florida State Fair Theme Revealed! Some experiences cannot be streamed, scrolled, or swiped. They have to be felt, tasted, heard, and shared. That is the idea behind the 2027 Florida State Fair campaign, “Experience Real Fun. Florida’s Original Fun,” which invites guests to step away from the screen and into 12 days of authentic Florida fun at the Florida State Fairgrounds, February 4-15, 2027. floridastatefair.com
NEW Exhibit at Tampa Museum of Art “David Hockney: Perspective Should Be Reversed” was recently unveiled at the museum, from the collections of the Jordan Schnitzer Family Foundation. We love it because it shows our kids there is more than one way to create art. The exhibit features more than 140 works spanning six decades, which offers a timely opportunity to experience and reflect on Hockney’s extraordinary legacy. Hockney rejected the idea that art is limited to one medium and created art through etchings, lithography, office copiers, video, photography, and even iPads and iPhones. Kids who love digital art will appreciate the digital art prints that he created during his lifetime. The exhibit will be on display through Feb. 28, 2027. tampamuseum.org
Meet the 2026 Hillsborough County Anti-Bullying Emerging Leader Award Winner: 4th Grader Nariah Rivera Even at her young age, Nariah Rivera is learning that kindness has power, and that kids like her can make a difference in this world. The club director at Boys & Girls Club of Greater Tampa Bay nominated her for the work she’s been doing at the club. She not only routinely sticks up for other children, but she also helped create an activity for the Smart Girls program that encourages girls to connect with each other and help stop bullying. When Rivera grows up, she wants to be a police officer so she can, in her words, “help people in the world to be safe.” Congratulations, Nariah! Flip to page 32 to meet the 2026 Individual Annual Anti-Bullying Award winner, Madden Moore.
MEMBERSHIP PERKS: IT PAYS TO JOIN THE CLUB! Jr. Bucs Fan Club Membership Perks
Friendsgiving at Clearwater Marine Aquarium
The Jr. Bucs Fan Club is open to all kids 14 and under. For a one-time fee, your child will get a welcome box filled with Jr. Bucs swag and exclusive access to member events for the whole family, like the most recent Trunk or Treasure! Kids can also take advantage of year-round special ticket offers, Bucs Team Store discounts, partner benefits, and more! buccaneers.com
CMA loves to celebrate its members, and this month, they’re bringing back Friendsgiving! This is a great time to join and take part in this magical evening of dining among friends in front of the giant dolphin viewing window. Learn more at cmaquarium.org.
NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 7
november Top Picks Our favorite family-friendly events in Tampa Bay
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS HOME GAMES NOV. 1 AND 30 RAYMOND JAMES STADIUM, TAMPA
Head to Raymond James to cheer on the Tampa Bay Bucs as they face the Atlanta Falcons on Nov. 1 and the Carolina Panthers on Nov. 30! Be sure to sign the kids up for the Jr. Bucs Fan Club for special perks and swag. On Nov. 30, kids can also take advantage of a special $10 kids meal! buccaneers.com
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FAIR – CELEBRATE AMERICA
Check out what’s going on at MOSI this month! Visit mosi.org to learn more and to register for events. SKYWATCH
NOV. 13 FROM 8-10 P.M. Join MOSI astronomers for SkyWatch, an exciting evening stargazing event! Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or just beginning to explore the wonders of the night sky, SkyWatch offers an unforgettable experience for everyone.
NOV. 5-15 HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS, DOVER
TELESCOPE TUTORING
Celebrate family, agriculture and community at the 2026 Hillsborough County Fair, Nov. 5-15 in Dover! This year’s “Celebrate America” theme brings 11 days of exciting carnival rides, fair food, youth livestock shows, agricultural exhibits, contests, live entertainment and family fun. New for 2026, gate admission includes special grandstand events, including rodeo action, truck and tractor pulls and the fan-favorite Demo Derby. Plus, parking is always FREE! Come celebrate America’s heritage, support local youth and agriculture, and make lasting memories with family and friends. hillsboroughcountyfair.com
Have you ever wanted to master the art of stargazing? Join MOSI’s Science Park for a two-hour telescope tutoring session. Bring your own telescope and learn how to set it up, align it and explore the night sky like a pro. For kids ages 10+.
JUNIOR LEAGUE OF TAMPA HOLIDAY GIFT MARKET
NOV. 12-15 FLORIDA STATE FAIRGROUNDS, TAMPA The Holiday Gift Market is the Junior League’s largest fundraiser, bringing together merchants and shoppers for a unique shopping event. Funds raised go toward their community projects and programs. The event will take place at the Florida State Fairgrounds and tickets are required. jltampa.org
NIGHT AT THE AQUARIUM
NOV. 23 FROM 6-8 P.M. CLEARWATER MARINE AQUARIUM, CLEARWATER Get ready for an unforgettable evening where the aquarium transforms into an after-hours adventure! This special event invites kids ages 5-10 to experience a magical night filled with captivating stories, handson activities, and aquarium exploration. Hear amazing tales about the ocean’s most incredible creatures, dive into interactive fun with ocean-themed crafts and games, and discover the secrets of CMA like never before! When the lights go out, the ocean adventure truly begins! cmaquarium.org
TAMPA YMCA TURKEY GOBBLE CELEBRATES 12 YEARS OF GIVING BACK NOV. 26 AT 7 A.M. BENCHMARK INTERNATIONAL ARENA, TAMPA
The Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA invites the community to its 12th Annual Turkey Gobble on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26, at Benchmark International Arena. Participants can enjoy a 5K, 1-mile fun run or virtual 5K. All proceeds support YMCA Healthy Living Programs, including cancer survivor wellness, diabetes prevention and Parkinson’s programs, helping community members manage chronic conditions, improve wellness and live healthier, stronger lives while supporting their neighbors.
8 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2026
NOV. 19 FROM 7-9 P.M.
LASER LIGHT SHOW
NOV. 27 AT 6:30 P.M. AND 8:15 P.M. Visit Saunders Planetarium for a special light show set to some of music’s greatest hits! Watch the sky come alive to the sound of Led Zeppelin and the Grateful Dead.
save the date YULETIDE ON THE RANGE
DEC. 8 FROM 5-8 P.M. THE JAMES MUSEUM, ST. PETE Cowboy Santa invites you to kick off the holiday season at The James Museum in downtown St. Pete for a festive and fun celebration. Come see the 12-foot Yule Cactus, enjoy art-making for all ages, photos with Cowboy Santa, live music from Tampa Bay band Local Honey and more! The event takes place on the first floor, and it is FREE to attend. thejamesmuseum.org
NEXT GENERATION BALLET’S "NUTCRACKER" DEC. 18-22 STRAZ CENTER, TAMPA
Next Generation Ballet’s (NGB) "Nutcracker" takes audiences into a fantastical world of dazzling dancing sweets, sword-fighting rodents and timeless ballet music. Performances feature award-winning young dancers from NGB alongside internationally acclaimed principal guest star dancers. strazcenter.org
but wait, there's more! SCAN HERE FOR MORE OF OUR WEEKEND TOP PICKS
holiday cheer meets high seas adventure! Set sail on a festive cruise featuring: • Letters to Santa • Christmas Games • Snow Flurries • Visit to Santa’s Elf
Starts November 27 SCAN TO BOOK!
SCAN TO BOOK!
DEPARTING FROM WINTER VILLAGE @ CURTIS HIXON PARK A magical way to celebrate the season on the Hillsborough River! • Holiday Lights Tour, Music & Cheer • Write & Mail Letters to Santa • Visit Santa’s Elf
SELECT NIGHTS
NOV 13 - JAN 4
ANNUAL PASS
GIVE THE GIFT OF CHEER ALL YEAR WITH AN ANNUAL PASS
Event included with park admission. Event dates and times are subject to change and/or cancellation without prior notice. Pass benefits and pricing vary by type. All Pass benefits subject to availability, change and/or cancellation without prior notice. Blockout dates apply and parking not included with Bronze Annual Pass. Other restrictions apply. See website for details. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and all related elements © and TM under license to Character Arts, LLC. All rights reserved. © 2025 United Parks & Resorts, Inc. All rights reserved.
Thanksgiving Break: Holidays
Thanksgiving Break for most area schools is Nov. 23-27. If you’re sticking around town, there will be plenty to do with the kids and your guests. So let’s dive into all of the holiday events opening this month and some more ideas to fill your days with core memories!
Gingerbread Village at Glazer Children’s Museum in Tampa NOV. 1 THROUGH DEC. 31, 2026
This beloved holiday tradition returns for a day of creative fun, without the mess of cookies and icing! Your kids will get to put their imaginations to work as they create their very own gingerbread house out of recycled materials like cardboard, pipe cleaners, and more, and then add their creation to the village. glazermuseum.org
Enchant returns to Tropicana Field in St. Pete NOV. 20 THROUGH DEC. 27, 2026
After a two-year hiatus, Enchant Christmas is returning to Tropicana Field with millions of twinkling lights, a new story, “Night of the Nutcrackers”, a holiday village with local shopping and treats, ice-skating, and visits with Santa. Event planners tell us you can expect new experiences, including a new themed light maze and a new Ferris Wheel. enchantchristmas.com
River of Lights on Pirate Water Taxi in Tampa NOV. 20, 2026 THROUGH JAN. 3, 2027
Don’t miss this “very Florida” way to view Christmas lights and holiday decorations! The Christmas Light cruise with Pirate Water Taxi departs from the Tampa Convention Center and includes Holiday carols and a visit with Santa’s Elf on a barge, where kids can drop off their letters to Santa on Tampa’s only floating buoy! piratewatertaxi.com
Busch Gardens Christmas Town in Tampa NOV. 13, 2026 THROUGH JAN. 4, 2027
Grab your hot chocolate and ride the Holly Jolly Express train, see millions of twinkling lights from the top of a roller coaster, visit Santa in his workshop, and spend time with Rudolph and his friends from the classic holiday movie, “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” Christmas Town is everything your holiday dreams are made of! buschgardens.com
THANKSGIVING BREAK CAMPS Glazer Children’s Museum, MOSI and the YMCA are offering Thanksgiving break Camps for kiddos if you still have to work or need to run errands.
NEW: Winter Wonder: Open-Air Ice-Skating Rink at Williams Park in St. Pete NOV. 20, 2026 THROUGH JAN. 3, 2027
We can't wait for this exciting new addition to the holiday lineup in Tampa Bay! Winter Wonder will be the area’s open-air ice skating rink— no tent needed, just the lush trees of Williams Park in St. Pete! There will also be a holiday market, food and beverage offerings, and live entertainment and family activities on schedule throughout the season. winterwonderstpete.com
FLIP THE PAGE FOR MORE! NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 11
Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park in Downtown Tampa NOV. 20, 2026 THROUGH JAN. 3, 2027
This is another one of those holiday traditions returning to Tampa Bay. It’s a magical experience to go skating on real ice in this outdoor rink. It’s also a unique opportunity to shop locally owned small businesses all in one place at “The Shops of Winter Village”, and of course there will be plenty of snacks and beverages available for purchase from “The Cafe”. wintervillagetampa.com
Christmas in the Wild at ZooTampa in Tampa NOV. 27 THROUGH DEC. 30, 2026
ZooTampa transforms into a holiday wonderland filled with lights, sweet treats, unique experiences, and more! Kids will also love exploring Gingerbread Jubilee, meeting Randolph the reindeer at Randolph’s Reindeer Games, and of course, meeting Santa. We love how the zoo lights up once the sun goes down. It’s a must-see! zootampa.org
LEGOLAND Christmas Bricktacular at LEGOLAND Florida Resort in Winter Haven NOV. 21, 2026 THROUGH JAN. 3, 2027
We love this holiday event at LEGOLAND Florida, where kids can meet LEGO holiday characters, including LEGO Santa! Some other new events on schedule include a chance for kids to create magical LEGO carrots to refuel the reindeer, watch LEGO Santa take to the skies, see the Resort’s first-ever Rap Battle show, and follow an enchanting interactive light trail. legoland.com/florida
Lights at Largo Central Park in Largo NOV. 26, 2026 THROUGH JAN. 3, 2027
The annual family-friendly tradition at Largo Central Park features a spectacular holiday light display of 2.5 million dazzling LED lights. You can take a ride on a stunning carousel and the Ferris wheel that offers breathtaking views of the lighted park. playlargo.com
Tampa Bay Festival of Lights in Dover NOV. 26 THROUGH DEC. 27, 2026
Experience 1.5 million lights across a 2-mile drive-thru and park over in Santa’s Village to enjoy festive shows, kids’ crafts, games, Santa visits, holiday rides, movies, firepits, and shopping in the Holiday Market and Historical Village! hillsboroughcountyfair.com
A Pirate’s Christmas on Lost Pearl in Tampa SELECT DATES, NOV. 27 THROUGH DEC. 30, 2026 Join White Beard and his jolly pirate crew for a festive 1-hour cruise full of games, sing-alongs, and even “snow” on the high seas. Kids will love writing letters to Santa and mailing them at Tampa’s only floating North Pole buoy, and they’ll even get a gift from the treasure chest. tampapirateship.com
FLIP THE PAGE FOR MORE!
VISIT SANTA AT THE MALL Santa will be a busy guy this holiday season as he makes stops around Tampa Bay to visit with the kids! He’ll be landing at International Plaza in Tampa beginning Nov. 6 and Citrus Park Town Center beginning on Nov. 20. Scan for his complete schedule in Tampa Bay! NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 13
Meet with Santa CITRUS PARK TOWN CENTER
NOV 20 - NOV 25 Monday - Friday: 2 PM - 7 PM Saturday: 10 AM - 8 PM Sunday: 12 PM - 6PM
NOV 27 - DEC 17 Monday - Friday: 11 AM - 7 PM Saturday: 10 AM - 8 PM Sunday: 12 PM - 6PM
DEC 18 - DEC 23 Monday - Saturday: 10 AM - 8 PM Sunday: 12 PM - 6 PM
DEC 24 Christmas Eve: 10 AM - 6PM Citrus Park Town Center will be closed on Christmas day
NOT-TO-MISS SHOWS:
A Magical Cirque Christmas at the Mahaffey Theater in St. Pete FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, AT 8 P.M.
Zubrick Magic Theatre’s Holiday Spectacular in St. Pete SELECT DATES, NOVEMBER 12 THROUGH JANUARY 3, 2027, AT VARIOUS SHOWTIMES
Celebrate the season with Zubrick Magic Theatre’s Holiday Spectacular, a dazzling 70-minute performance created and produced by Illusionists Chris and Ryan Zubrick. Featuring world-class magic, holiday-inspired surprises, audience interaction, and plenty of unexpected moments, this special production blends audience favorites with fresh seasonal touches. It’s a festive tradition for families, friends, and anyone looking to experience something truly magical this holiday season in downtown St. Petersburg. zubrickmagic.com
Don’t miss the holiday spectacular everyone will be talking about! A Magical Cirque Christmas is coming to the Mahaffey Theater for one unforgettable evening of world-class cirque artistry, comedy, magic, and music. Featuring breathtaking aerialists, acrobats, contortionists, jugglers, and specialty performers, this dazzling production brings beloved Christmas classics to life with a fresh, modern twist. Filled with jaw-dropping feats, festive fun, and unforgettable moments, A Magical Cirque Christmas is the perfect holiday experience for the whole family, a festive night out, or a gathering with friends. themahaffey.com
WORTH THE DRIVE:
ice!™ featuring The Polar Express™ NOV. 13, 2026 THROUGH JAN. 3, 2027
Experience The Polar Express in a whole new way at Gaylord Palms Resort. ice! featuring The Polar Express™ brings the beloved story to life with more than 2 million pounds of colorful ice, larger-than-life scenes, familiar characters, and two-story ice slides. Inside, it’s a chilly 9 degrees Fahrenheit, but parkas are provided. Beyond the immersive ice! attraction, families can enjoy ice tubing, holiday lights, Santa visits, gingerbread decorating, and live entertainment during Gaylord Palms’ So Much Christmas celebration. ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com THE POLAR EXPRESS and all related characters and elements are copyright and trademark of Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.
“A Charlie Brown Christmas Live On Stage!” at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater SUNDAY, NOV. 15 AT 7 P.M.
“A Charlie Brown Christmas Live On Stage!” returns to Ruth Eckerd Hall to spread holiday cheer with the timeless characters, music and heart that have made it a cherished family tradition for generations. Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus and the whole Peanuts gang as they produce their own Christmas play and ultimately learn the true meaning of the season. rutheckerdhall.com
WANT MORE? SCAN HERE FOR MORE IDEAS!
NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 15
Brightest Event of The Season! Christmas in the Wild returns this holiday season at ZooTampa with dazzling lights and festive entertainment for all ages! Create new family memories and connect with amazing wildlife at Tampa’s most beloved holiday celebration.
16 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2026
PRESENTED BY ZOOTAMPA
Wild Gifts for Everyone on Your List
As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to get into the spirit of giving. This year, why not make your gifts heartwarming and meaningful? We’ve crafted the ultimate holiday gift guide, featuring a range of options to delight the animal lovers in your life. The best part? Every purchase supports conservation and the rescue, rehabilitation and care of wildlife! Skip the ordinary and give a gift that brings a little more wild into someone’s life. From animal-inspired treasures and oneof-a-kind keepsakes to experiences that create lasting memories, ZooTampa’s gift options offer something for every animal lover on your holiday shopping list.
For the Little Animal Lover
Make their holiday extra wild with plush versions of their favorite animals. From big cats and manatees to elephants and other adorable creatures, a cuddly animal friend makes a fun gift for children of all ages. Pair it with a book for a gift they can enjoy long after the wrapping paper is gone.
Giving Tree. At ZooTampa, we care for nearly 1,300 animals, including endangered, threatened and vulnerable species. Funds raised will support our Enrichment Program, which helps animals stay healthy, active and engaged every day. Enrichment provides animals with choices and activities that encourage them to explore, play and use their natural instincts — just as they would in the wild.
For the Wildlife Enthusiast
Give the gift of wildlife-inspired style with ZooTampa apparel and accessories. From comfortable shirts and hoodies to hats and other branded merchandise, there are many ways for animal lovers to show their wild side wherever their adventures take them.
For the Person Who Has Everything
Sometimes the best gift isn’t something that can be wrapped. Give the gift of 12 months of memories with a ZooTampa membership or consider symbolically adopting an animal. It’s a gift that keeps giving, long after the holiday season.
For the Conservation-Minded Shopper Seeking a Meaningful Way to Give Back Your holiday celebration is not complete without finding a special opportunity to give back.
We invite those seeking a unique way to give back this holiday season to visit our website to support our mission by donating to our annual
For the Experience Seeker
For those who would rather collect memories than things, consider gifting an unforgettable animal experience. From exploring the zoo’s diverse habitats to getting up close with amazing species, Zoo Signature Encounters offer many behind-the-scenes and interactive ways to make the spirits bright this season!
With options ranging from small surprises to year-round experiences, ZooTampa makes it easy to add a little more wild under the tree this holiday season.
Shop wild. Give wild. And make this holiday season one to remember! NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 17
NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH CELEBRATION
NOVEMBER 8, 10 A.M.—5 P.M. FREE EVENT
YULETIDE ON THE RANGE DECEMBER 8, 5—8 P.M. FREE EVENT
HOLIDAY BREAK DROP-IN OPEN STUDIO
DAILY, DECEMBER 28— JANUARY 2, 1—4 P.M. Learn more at thejamesmuseum.org 18 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2026
NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 19
Carved from 2 Million pounds of Ice Some traditions are worth repeating. This Christmas, ice!™ featuring The Polar Express™ returns to Gaylord Palms, giving families a chance to revisit a beloved holiday favorite while creating new memories together.
Nov. 13 - Jan. 3 ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com
THE POLAR EXPRESS and all related characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.
Deck the alls & alls
40th Annual Holiday Invitational 11.6 to 12.24 www.dfac.org
NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 21
SHOP FOR A CAUSE!
PRESENTED BY JUNIOR LEAGUE OF TAMPA
Holiday Shopping, Holiday Magic and Giving Back The Junior League of Tampa’s Holiday Gift Market Returns Nov. 12-15 Diana Bernal-Silva, Co-Chair, 2026 Holiday Gift Market, Junior League of Tampa
There are certain Tampa Bay traditions that officially signal the start of the holiday season, and the Junior League of Tampa’s Holiday Gift Market is one of them. Returning Nov. 12-15 to the Florida State Fairgrounds, the Holiday Gift Market brings together more than 200 specialty merchants, creating a festive destination for shopping, family fun and plenty of holiday magic. From fashion and jewelry to home décor, gourmet treats, children’s gifts and unique finds, there is something for everyone on your list, and probably a few things you’ll want to take home for yourself. But the Holiday Gift Market is about much more than shopping. As the Junior League of Tampa’s largest annual fundraiser, the event helps support the League’s community programs and initiatives throughout Tampa Bay. When you shop, attend a special event or purchase a ticket, you’re helping give back to the community while supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs. And this year, there are plenty of reasons to make a day, or an entire weekend, of it. Families can look forward to Santa Snaps, giving little ones the chance to meet Santa and capture those special holiday memories. For a little extra sparkle, the Sugarplum Fairy Tea Party, hosted by Little Princess Spa, invites children into a whimsical afternoon of holiday hair styling, magical makeup, face gems, festive treats, drinks and photo opportunities. Little fairies are encouraged to come dressed in their favorite festive or fairy-inspired attire. The holiday spirit will also take center stage with a special appearance by the cast of The Nutcracker from The Straz Center, bringing a little bit of Tampa’s beloved holiday performing arts tradition to the market. And for grown-ups, the weekend kicks off with one of Tampa’s most festive holiday evenings: the VIP Preview Party on Thursday, Nov. 12. VIP guests will enjoy first access to the market before it opens to the public, along with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and desserts, live entertainment, interactive photo opportunities and an exclusive gift bag. It’s the perfect opportunity to gather friends, enjoy a night out and get a head start on holiday shopping. The Holiday Gift Market also brings back its popular Bargain Bracelet, which gives shoppers 10% off purchases of $25 or more from participating merchants, making it an especially good excuse to tackle that holiday list early. Whether you come for the shopping, bring the kids for a little holiday magic or plan a girls’ night at the Preview Party, there’s an even bigger reason to be part of the Holiday Gift Market. Every dollar raised helps support the Junior League of Tampa’s community outreach programs and the work being done throughout Tampa Bay to strengthen our community and create lasting impact.
Mark your calendar for Nov. 12-15 and join the Junior League of Tampa for four days of shopping, celebrating and giving back. To purchase tickets, scan the QR code or visit jltampa.org.
NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 23
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Hop Into The Bunny Hive A Sweet Spot for Little Ones and Their Grown-ups
THE
PLAY LIST
by Claudia Sinram
Finding an activity that your little one enjoys and that also gives grownups a chance to connect can sometimes feel like a win-win that’s hard to find. That’s exactly the idea behind The Bunny Hive, a social club designed for little ones and the grown-ups who love them. Already open in Odessa — and coming soon to South Tampa — The Bunny Hive combines developmentally focused classes, play and social activities in a space created with both kids and their caregivers in mind.
MORE THAN A MOMMY-AND-ME CLASS
The Bunny Hive welcomes families with children from newborn through preschool, with “grown-up and me” classes designed for different ages and developmental stages. And there’s plenty of variety. Depending on the schedule, families can choose from classes like music, ballet, art, sensory play, baby massage and culinary experiences. Classes are intentionally kept to about 30 minutes, just enough time to keep little ones engaged without pushing them past their limits. The goal isn’t just to keep kids busy. Activities encourage learning through play while giving grown-ups dedicated time to bond with their children.
A PLACE FOR GROWN-UPS, TOO
One of the things that makes The Bunny Hive different is the emphasis on community. The studio hosts social activities, seasonal events, pop-ups and other opportunities for families to spend time together outside of regular classes.
COMING SOON TO SOUTH TAMPA! Here’s some exciting news for families closer to Tampa: The Bunny Hive is growing! Owner Allie Felix, who opened The Bunny Hive Odessa in 2025, is bringing a second location to South Tampa. The new studio will open at 216 S. Armenia Ave. and will offer classes for little ones, along with social activities and special events for families. The South Tampa location is expected to open later this year. Whether you have a tiny newborn, a busy toddler or a preschooler ready to try something new, The Bunny Hive offers something parents of little ones are often searching for: a place where kids can learn and play while their grown-ups find a community, too.
And if you’re planning a celebration, The Bunny Hive also hosts private events, including birthday parties and baby showers.
VISIT THE BUNNY HIVE IN ODESSA
Tampa Bay families can currently experience The Bunny Hive at its Odessa location. Families can choose from memberships with unlimited classes, a four-class monthly pass or single-class dropins, making it possible to try the experience before deciding what works best for your family. PARENT TIP: If you become a member, your membership also gives you access to classes at The Bunny Hive locations across the country, a great perk for families who travel!
THE BUNNY HIVE ODESSA 2256 Gunn Highway, Odessa, FL 33556
Newborn through preschool Classes • Play • Social Events • Parties
thebunnyhive.com NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 25
GIVE THE GIFT OF HOPE AT THE METROPOLITAN MINISTRIES HOLIDAY TENT by Laura Byrne
If you want your kids to experience the magic of giving back this holiday season, add a visit to the Metropolitan Ministries Holiday Tent to your list. There are few places in Tampa Bay where you can witness the power of giving in real time. From the moment donations arrive at the Holiday Tent, volunteers immediately get to work sorting and stocking shelves in a store-like setting where families can then fill their shopping carts and hearts with hope. This year, many of the 30,000 families who will be served at the Holiday Tent are working families. Some may even be people who usually give during this time of year, but are now struggling to make ends meet as the cost of living soars. This is where the community comes in. While the Metropolitan Ministries team is a powerhouse, the miracles that happen in the tent can’t happen without the help of families like yours. Whether it’s through your gift of "time, treasures, or talent" … it all makes a difference.
HOW YOU CAN HELP: Host a Donation Drive: Drives are down this year, so if you are able, host a donation barrel at your business or school, or rally your sports team, scout group or neighborhood to collect food and/or toys. Metropolitan Ministries will drop off and pick up the barrels. Donate at the Holiday Tents: Each of the four Holiday Tent locations has a drivethrough lane, making it super easy to drop off donations. Volunteers will be on hand to help gather your items, so you don’t even need to get out of the car (although you may want to peek inside the tent and maybe get inspired to volunteer). Give the Gift of Your Time and Volunteer: Kids as young as 8 can volunteer with their families in the Holiday Tent. Jobs include collecting donations from the drive-through donor lane, sorting items, helping families shop and more. This is also a wonderful team-building opportunity for your office or group. Give the Gift of Your Treasure: If you are not able to volunteer, even a small donation can go a long way. Metropolitan Ministries can buy in bulk and stretch your dollars even further. For perspective, $20 can provide 10 holiday meals for hungry families. Click on the Holiday Central tab on metromin.org to learn more. Families who need help may also register here.
THE NEED: In order to serve 30,000 families in the Tampa Bay area this holiday season, Metropolitan Ministries needs: • One million pounds of food • 60,000 toys • 15,000 volunteers • 800 donation drives
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HOLIDAY TENT LOCATIONS: There are four Holiday Tent locations this year, with the flagship tent in Tampa in a NEW location, right in the heart of the Westshore district next to I-275. Metropolitan Ministries Holiday Tent in Tampa 4900 W. Lemon St., Tampa Metropolitan Ministries Holiday Tent at Generations Christian Church 1540 Little Road, Trinity Metropolitan Ministries East Pasco Campus 13703 17th St., Dade City Metropolitan Ministries Holiday Tent at Holy Cross Catholic Church 7851 54th Ave. N., St. Petersburg *For Holiday Tent hours for each location and additional donation site locations, visit metromin.org/holiday-central.
MOST NEEDED ITEMS: • Food: frozen turkeys and hams, cereal, stuffing, canned yams, canned veggies and fruits, cranberry sauce, rice, boxed potatoes, gravy, peanut butter, soups and dessert mixes. • Toys for children and teens: new, unwrapped gifts like sports equipment/apparel, arts and crafts kits, board games, electronics and gift cards.
DID YOU KNOW? Volunteers at Metropolitan Ministries give an incredible 156,000 hours of their time. That’s the equivalent of $5.1 million in labor costs!
THE POWER OF GIVING AT WORK: We recently caught up with Metropolitan Ministries’ president and CEO, Dr. Sarah Combs, who is the third person to lead this organization that has a history spanning more than five decades. She’s been in the job for more than a year now, and as she gets ready to celebrate her second year with the Holiday Tent, we’re learning more about her commitment to serving our community, why it’s so important to get our kids involved in community service early, and the history of the tent.
I was there for 15 years, and we did incredible work. We built a beautiful park. We built housing infrastructure. We focused on youth and children, education and workforce. A lot of the programs and services that Metropolitan Ministries offers, we did those same programs and services. So when I was able to be hired on with Metro Min, it just felt like home. And to be able to have greater reach and impact was what I was so excited about. Now I'm a little over a year in and feel like I'm finally getting my grounding, my footing, which is a nice feeling. TBPM: What is it like to be a part of Metropolitan Ministries’ story? SC: When I started with Metro, I said, "How many times has the mission statement changed?” The organization is almost 55 years old. So I wanted to know how many times we changed our mission. It's never been changed. I think that's what’s so special about Metropolitan Ministries. The way it was formed is just a kind of a magical story in itself. Thirteen congregations of all denominations got together, and they talked about how there was a need to serve the homeless and the poor. And they determined that they needed to create an organization that focused solely on that. Being able to see how Metro was birthed and that rich history, and then learning about Morris Hintzman, who is the founder, and his incredible work for 40 years, and then after that, Tim Marks, who served for 20 years. And then me being the third president, right? The third. And being a woman, that's important. You know, that history is important. Dr. Sarah Combs with Tampa Bay Rays mascot, Raymond, in the Holiday Tent in Tampa.
TBPM: First of all, we want to know a little bit more about YOU! You have another big job … mom! Dr. Sarah Combs: Absolutely. I'm a mom to identical twin boys who are 12 years old, just entering sixth grade at Family of Christ. And then my daughter is a freshman at Tampa Catholic. So those are kind of big years for us. Entering middle school, entering high school and then mommy got a new job. It's a lot happening. TBPM: Tell us about your journey to Metropolitan Ministries. SC: I've been doing work in the Tampa Bay community for over 25 years and always have been called to help those who need it, who didn't have a voice that needed representation. That's kind of where I felt God has been really pushing me and calling me. When my husband and I moved from Colorado, we moved to Tampa, and I started running an organization called Best Buddies — which helps people with intellectual and developmental disabilities — and ran their office in South Tampa for about six years. And then I learned about this community that was in such need. It had some of the highest crime statistics; unemployment and housing statistics were really bad. And they said it’s by the University of South Florida. I live in New Tampa, so I couldn't figure out where this pocket of poverty existed. So I came out there just to learn about this university area community, not necessarily thinking that I was going to switch jobs. But I tell you what, I fell in love with that community. I saw the need; the need was great. But boy, did I see that opportunity to be able to create change, real change in that community. And that was with the University Area Community Development Corporation.
I just think about how Metropolitan Ministries is really the community’s. It was birthed by the community. It's been supported by the community. And I don't take that lightly. I know that's really important. And being the third president and CEO, it's quite an honor. TBPM: Let’s go back to the beginning of it all. Tell us a little bit more about the origin of the Holiday Tent and why it isn’t in a warehouse somewhere? SC: What I thought was so cool about the history of the tent was Morris Hintzman — and they all saw the need. They were serving individuals through the soup kitchen, and during the holidays, it got almost overwhelming. They couldn’t feed enough people because the house they were in was so small. And so, they said, “What are we going to do about this? We don't have enough time to build a facility to be able to do this.” So Morris said, “You know what, we're throwing up a tent, meeting the needs right where they are. We’re responding to the needs of the community in that moment.” So that kind of grassroots — we respond to the needs of the community right away — is something that is so remarkable. And then every year, no one knows where the [Tampa] tent’s going to be. And that drives me crazy, to be honest. Hopefully in the future, maybe we'll buy some land so we know where we're going to be next year. But I just think that how it all comes together is nothing short of a miracle. And I think it's all about how it was founded and the intent it was founded on, and that's why the community somehow, some way, always rises to the occasion. We’re always able to serve the families, so I just think it's pretty remarkable. DID YOU KNOW? The first holiday tent was launched in 1995, but the holiday services program dates back to 1982.
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TBPM: Let’s be honest … sometimes it's a struggle to get our kids to try something new, like volunteering. What are some of your words of encouragement? SC: Sometimes, as parents, we have to drag them, but they’re still getting exposure. And that exposure is so incredibly important. Even when we don't think they're getting anything, they do. So I would just encourage parents to keep it up. Some of them are excited to do it once they find that connection, but it's not always there at first. Sometimes you have to give them a nudge and almost make them do it. But I promise once they've done it a few times, they start to really understand, and then they want to do it, which is really cool. TBPM: Is there a moment you remember with your own kids when they finally understood the power of giving back?
TBPM: This will be your second year at the Holiday Tent, right? SC: It will. What's nice about having been here for a year is that I’ve experienced everything once. And so I think that's where that foundation is; it's like you have some footing now. I know what to expect. And we're gearing up for an incredible holiday with our four tent locations in three counties. We're going to be serving 30,000 families. And I tell you what, now it's needed more than ever. The need is a little bit scary, how rapidly it's increasing. TBPM: What is Metropolitan Ministries struggling with as you open the Holiday Tents to meet those needs? SC: Our drives are down. What we're finding, really putting our ears to the ground and talking with the community — those families that are working families that always gave a little extra … the cost of living has increased so dramatically; the pay hasn't. And so they don't have extra to give. Our call to action is that we need food drives. If we're going to serve 30,000 families, we need the community support. Anybody who can host a drive, get a barrel out at their workplace, or, you know, we have so many incredible sports teams that our kids are on, have those teams rally around this, teach them about community service, and make sure that we're able to feed and serve 30,000 families. TBPM: Let’s talk a little bit about what goes on inside the Holiday Tent and what makes the experience so special. SC: When you match a volunteer with a client, it is remarkable to see that connection that’s formed. I have some volunteers who come back and tell me every year, like, how they've stayed in touch with individuals that they've met and created friendships. It's so incredible to be able to hear those stories. And most importantly, that's what community is about. Neighbors helping neighbors. And, you know, there’s a misnomer — I think people think that the clients that we serve don't have jobs. And it's so far from the truth. These are our working families. These are the individuals who are serving you food. These are the individuals who are making our businesses run. And that's the piece that I think is so important because it truly is neighbors helping neighbors. And you see that in action at the tent. TBPM: Why is it so important for your family and for others to volunteer together? SC: I would say — I just want to raise really good humans. At the end of the day, that's my goal. I want my kids to understand how important it is that they know the privilege they have, but also how important it is to help those who have not had that opportunity that they've had or the favor, you know? Whenever you’re able to expose your kids to opportunities like that, it makes them better humans, and it does something to them … I can't explain what it does — it fills something in them that is hard to describe — and then they understand how important service is, and the idea is that they will keep doing it. And then when they have kids, they'll be able to pass that on as well.
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SC: What I thought was so magical was Christmas morning. So it's my first year, and I'm doing everything. It's going to be a tough year, but I'm doing everything. I told my kids around Thanksgiving, “Hey guys, Christmas morning is going to look a little different.” And they were like, “What do you mean, Mom?” And I said, “When we wake up, instead of opening presents, we're going to go to the homeless shelter. And we’re going to deliver presents to all those boys and girls. We’re going to literally knock on their doors and hand them to them.” I expected a lot more pushback. I mean, I got a little grumbling. But I expected a lot more pushback. And I honestly expected some pushback from my husband. But he was like, absolutely. We brought my husband's parents as well, so the whole family unit — we were there at 7 a.m. We had it all organized; the gifts were already pre-wrapped, but to be able to see them be like, “okay, this one goes to 203,” and load it up in the cart, knock on the door, and then to see the kids so excited. One of the things I'll never forget — I think it was my son Ayden who saw it, as we were waiting for a door — some of them were still asleep — but on the door it said Christmas Wishes. And it said, “I wish for a home.” It was one of three wishes, and the first one was "I wish for a home.” I didn't even see it; my son pointed it out to everyone. I was kind of standing back, watching, and I think he got it in that moment; he understood it, and he'll take that with him wherever he goes. That is one of those core memories that you're just not going to forget. If we don't expose our children to opportunities to serve others, I just think it robs them of an opportunity to be a really good human and to understand empathy and all of these things that all the technology in the world can't offer them. It's the human element and emotion. TBPM: Your work in the nonprofit world has to be so fulfilling. What’s your advice for kids who aspire to make a difference in this world and work with a nonprofit? It seems like the career is AI-proof, given the human element and emotion you mentioned. SC: If you're interested in making this world a better place, there's no better occupation to be in. We do have a lot of nonprofits in the Tampa Bay community, but what is your calling? What do you feel like you're called to do? I speak to a lot of classrooms and do a lot of the Great American Teach-Ins, and I'm always curious to hear from kids, like, what do they want to be? And it's so cool to see over the years how some of their responses have changed to being more empathetic and wanting to go into occupations where they get to work with people. That has been really cool to hear and see. And then for me to be able to stand up there and talk about how important it is that we serve our community and all the different pathways to get there. And to your point of being like, everything's AI, and it's so true in saying the nonprofit space, working social services, working with people, that is really an occupation that is bulletproof. And most importantly, I think if we expose our kids to opportunities for volunteering, they have the empathy that is needed to be able to do really well in those positions.
THIS THANKSGIVING
Help struggling families this holiday by joining Metropolitan Ministries in our mission to serve our community
VOLUNTEER in one of our Holiday Tents
HOST
a food or toy drive
DONATE
Give a gift online at Metromin.org
Share the Gift of Your Time: Where to Volunteer as a Family in Tampa Bay by Laura Byrne
This is the time of year when giving back to our community is top of mind, but sharing the gift of your time is not only something you can do right now during the holiday season, but also all year long. We’re sharing a few amazing ways you and the kids can make a difference together.
Metropolitan Ministries
Age requirements: 8 and older with a guardian. Kids 14 or older can serve independently Learn more: metromin.org The Holiday Tent is one of our favorite volunteer opportunities for families during this time of year because you get to witness your impact in real time. From the sorting of food and toy donations to helping families shop the Holiday Tent, it’s a unique opportunity for kids to see how quickly a donation can go from donation bin to shopping cart. Your Holiday Tent shift could include sorting donations as they come in from the donation lane, sorting toy donations by age from community drives and placing them on shelves for families to shop or even helping a family shop the Holiday Tent. There are also year-round volunteer experiences, but the Holiday Tent is a wonderful way to introduce your kids to the power of giving back. Kids can serve in a variety of shifts, including the Clothing Warehouse/Thrift Store, the Kitchen, special events and more.
Feeding Tampa Bay
Age requirements: 5 and older, but open to all ages during Family Nights Learn more: feedingtampabay.org Every kid knows what it feels like to be hungry, so they can relate and empathize as they learn that one in four kids in our community are food insecure. This is one of the first volunteer experiences I had with my own son when he was in kindergarten, and I think it really did open his eyes to the need in our community and made him feel as if he was able to make a difference, even if it was helping us sort canned food from giant boxes. Family Nights are offered once each month at the warehouse in Tampa. There is no age restriction for this event, but it does fill up fast, so you’ll want to book in advance. You and the kids will help inspect, sort, and package donated goods and experience themed activities throughout the evening. Kids ages 5 and older are able to volunteer at the warehouse with their parents, and once they reach age 16, they can volunteer on their own.
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Volunteer Experiences for Your Teens:
Humane Society of Tampa Bay Age requirements: 5 and older, but there are experiences for younger kids Learn more: hstb.org There are a few different ways kids can get involved, depending on how old they are, but every experience comes with a visit with the animals who are looking for a good home. We love seeing how our kids have bonded with these animals, and while they are having fun, this time is helping the animals by giving the gift of love while they wait for their forever humans to adopt them. One of our favorite experiences is Paws for Literacy for kids in first through sixth grade, which is offered at the Tampa and Pinellas campuses on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Kids can grab a book and a stool and read to the animals to help socialize them while the kids work on their reading skills. It’s a win-win! Both campuses also offer Family Volunteer Days for families with kids ages 5 and older for a $20 donation. They are offered on Friday evenings and Saturday mornings. There will be hands-on activities that support the animals. Another program to note that gets kids involved early is the new Pets and Tots program for kids up to 4 years old. It’s offered once a month and tends to book quickly. The $25 session includes storytime, an activity, and, of course, time with the animals!
Tampa Bay Watch
Age requirements: All ages, depending on activity Learn more: tampabaywatch.org Taking part in habitat restoration along our Tampa Bay waterways is a hands-on way to show our kids how important it is for us to protect our planet. Kids of all ages can volunteer alongside their parents during Coastal Cleanups and Community Planting events. There are usually around three large cleanups each year and two planting events per season. During a Community Planting, you will help harvest native wetland plants grown in a community nursery and transplant them along the shoreline. Our small but mighty kids will get to see firsthand how these small but mighty plants help improve water quality and stabilize sediment — and how they played a part in that. For families with teens, there are more unique ways you can volunteer together. Kids 16 and older can help with Oyster Reef Ball Construction and then return on a different day to install the Oyster Reef Balls along the shorelines of Tampa Bay. These are usually only offered on weekday mornings, but are something to consider if there’s a school break or flexibility in schedule. Teens can also train as counselors for the summer camp and new Bay-Day and Holi-Bay camps offered at the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center at the St. Pete Pier.
Scan for even MORE ways to give back in Tampa Bay. Note: Most of the organizations highlighted here offer more ways to volunteer other than the opportunities we have listed here, so we encourage you to visit their sites and explore more!
Glazer Children’s Museum Tween and Teen Play Leaders Age requirements: Tween Play Leaders: 6th-8th grade; Teen Play Leaders: 9th-12th grade Learn more: glazermuseum.org This assignment is a fun one for Play Leaders, serving as ambassadors for the museum’s core values: play, experimentation, equity and inclusion, collaboration and sustainability. They may help greet guests, play with families and groups, support hands-on educational programs or reset and care for the exhibits.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium Junior Volunteer Age Requirements: 15-17 Learn more: cmaquarium.org There are a few different programs for teens, including a Jr. Dive Team for kids ages 15 and older who are scuba-certified to help clean the pool. There are also Jr. Education opportunities to help on the Sea Life Safari boat, Jr. Summer Camp, where they can work with elementary-aged children, and Jr. Guest Experience, where they can serve as an ambassador for CMA and help enhance the guest experience.
ZooTampa ZooTeen Volunteer Program Age Requirements: 14-17 and enrolled in high school for the upcoming academic year Learn more: zootampa.org They assist Kindergarten through eighth grade campers with a variety of games, crafts, zoo hikes and animal science information. ZooTeens work under the supervision of a Camp Counselor and complete tasks that support the curriculum objectives of our camp programs. NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 31
Unique Ways People are Making A Difference in Tampa Bay COMBATING BULLYING BY BUILDING COMMUNITY Madden Moore,
founder of Big & Little Panther at Plant High School and 2026 Hillsborough County Anti-Bullying Awareness Award winner Madden Moore understands the pain a child can endure when bullied. She experienced it herself in middle school and never wanted another child to feel that same loneliness, so as she entered high school, she made it her mission to connect with her fellow students in a meaningful way. Even at her young age, she understood that when you build community, you build human connection and friendships. During her junior year, she founded the Big & Little Panther program to ensure her classmates feel they belong and have someone to cheer them on as they begin their high school journey. Incredibly, this club, which connects upperclassmen with new students, was the first in the school’s 100-year history to attract 200+ students at its first meeting, according to the service club sponsor. This mission, along with her other outstanding service work in our community, recently earned her the honor of being the winner of the 2026 Hillsborough County Anti-Bullying Awareness Award. TBPM: Madden, tell us more about you and what inspired the creation of Big & Little Panther? Madden Moore: Being an only child, I’ve always been someone who loves bringing people together, and since I’m involved in so many diverse activities and clubs at my high school, I had a unique opportunity to meet students from different backgrounds, in all grade levels. Due to my unique perspective, I was able to see potential connections within the different groups that the kids themselves couldn’t yet envision. I was inspired to pair the younger classmen with the older classmen by my own experience as an incoming freshman! At the graduation of my eighth-grade year, I auditioned and was invited to join my high school all-girls a cappella group, “Pink Panthers.” Knowing I was already part of this group before my first day of high school even began gave me reassurance that my high school career would be a successful one. This immediate acceptance by my peers gave me confidence that changed the trajectory of my life in high school. Once I got my footing in school and felt I was capable of helping others find their way, I set out to make a change so that the younger students didn’t feel lost in such a large school! The mission was to connect students who shared similar interests but might not otherwise have the chance to meet one another. Not only did the freshmen feel welcomed, but it also allowed for the older kids to practice their leadership skills as mentors, so the program was a win for everyone! TBPM: Why is community building so important for a school? MM: We students spend so much time in school together; it only makes sense to invest in friendships while we’re there. Hopefully those friendships last long after graduation! When students feel connected
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to their school and to each other, they’re also more likely to look out for one another! Plant High School’s motto is “Strength Through Unity,” and I wanted to help implement this ideal in the hallways of our school, but also throughout the Hillsborough County school system as well. TBPM: How do you encourage kindness and understanding among your fellow students, and what’s your advice to a student who may be struggling to find friends or connect with others at their school? MM: I always try to lead by example. I think it is incredibly rewarding to oneself and to others to “sprinkle kindness everywhere you go!” We had a kindness campaign at my elementary school, and the theme still resonates with me today. Kindness is cool, and it’s cool to love your school! When I talk to kids who are struggling to find friends, I tell them not to assume they are the only ones dealing with this insecurity. Many students walk through the halls silently carrying the same burden. My advice is to always get involved in a program that interests you so you will find like-minded people. Of course, I also encourage them to join “Big & Little Panther” because it’s a club that is geared to connect people with shared interests who aren’t already connecting through clubs. Through these authentic connections, you will find your people and thus positively shape your high school career. TBPM: One challenge many programs face is longevity. How have you ensured this program will continue after you graduate from Plant High School? MM: Leaving a legacy at Plant High School is exciting, but the program was designed for longevity so that future generations of Panthers would continue to feel welcomed in these hallowed halls I love so much! I put in place a leadership team of younger students who would be mentored to lead and bring in the next generation. The “Littles” would become “Bigs” and take on new incoming freshmen as their newest “Littles,” so our family of Big & Little Panthers would be ever growing! The students who participate in the program aren’t just members; they become “family” who carry the tradition forward! It is my hope that the program will evolve yet remain an important part of the culture of the school. TBPM: You also volunteer with other local organizations like Tampa Mayor Youth Corps. What has that experience been like, and what would you tell other teens who are thinking about getting involved in the community? MM: Serving on the Tampa Mayor’s Youth Corps has been an invaluable experience! I am lucky to be a part of an organization that believes in young people having an impactful voice in our community. The amazing opportunities presented to us showcase all the wonderful ways the City of Tampa helps its people. Not only have I been able to volunteer at Feeding Tampa Bay, Trinity Café and Community Food Bank, but I’ve also been asked to partake in the city’s social media promotional videos so they can reach a greater audience. Using my social media and journalism skills, I have enjoyed working on my craft for the greater good. My advice to all the teens interested is to apply and not wait to get involved. There are so many volunteer opportunities everywhere you look! Join an organization, attend an informational meeting, apply to serve others in a capacity that interests you! You might discover a passion you did not know you had while making the community a better place.
HARNESSING THE POWER OF HER PLATFORM TO SUPPORT KIDS Dr. Meghan Martin,
emergency medicine physician at Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital and social media superstar Dr. Meghan Martin may be best known for her viral social media videos, but we can confirm the pediatric emergency medicine physician at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital is an absolute gem in real life. Her nearly 10 million social media followers haven’t gone to her head. She is as genuinely funny and relatable in person as she is online, and, quite frankly, one of the most humble and nicest people you will meet. She could have used this newfound celebrity status to get rich quick, but instead, she is using it to make a difference in our community. TBPM: Take us back to the beginning! How did you end up with this incredible platform on social media?
So I decided to start the nonprofit so that I'm able to give back and then use my platform to also grow that nonprofit so that other people can also give back and contribute. I chose things that meant a lot to me: pediatric readiness and keeping kids comfortable in the emergency department. TBPM: Tell us about the nonprofit. MM: My nonprofit is the Dr. Beach Gem Innovation Fund, and it supports pediatric readiness. So, it helps people in the area, in the region, and other hospitals and emergency departments be ready to take care of our pediatric patients. And also comfort in the emergency department, so making sure that we have supplies, toys, prizes, gadgets, things like a Buzzy Bee or a J-Tip, things that can make IVs more comfortable, and also supporting our Child Life staff who do an incredible job working with our families and patients. It is a very scary time for kids to be here. The ER can be a little traumatizing. And we want to make sure that we're maximizing comfort and also just helping patients understand what they’re going through. TBPM: You also decided to support kids in our region, not just here at Johns Hopkins All Children’s. MM: Yeah. The idea of this nonprofit and the idea of everything that I do is to make sure that all kids are taken care of as best we can. Pediatric readiness is really important. The hospital that you go to, it's important that they are prepared to take care of kids. And if they're not, then we've seen the outcomes are not as good. So we want to make sure everyone in the region is ready to take care of kids with injury and illness. TBPM: You are also helping other nonprofits.
Dr. Meghan Martin: I started making content around June of 2020 during COVID, the same reason a lot of people got onto TikTok and social media: Everything shut down with the pandemic. I went from being a super busy mom — every night of the week there were events — to just sitting around looking at my kids like, “What are we doing?”
MM: I’m looking forward to continuing to collaborate with people in the future. We also maybe overnight raised around $161,000 for the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation. I made a video that kind of popped off a little bit, and it's the end of September, which is Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month … I'm crying because it was just like, I wasn't expecting it. It was such a surprise; it's crazy.
So I started making some content just for fun, and then started to see a lot of the misinformation and started making videos to address it. And my platform has just continued to grow. And now we’re over six years into this, and I've grown a pretty substantial platform, with over 9.5 million people across all platforms.
TBPM: As a mom, I also love that you are educating us with science-backed research on our children’s health and even our own. But I also have appreciated your posts about being your own health advocate, and for our kids, too. Asking for a second opinion is not always a bad thing.
There really never was a goal. It was just always one day at a time, but it's pretty wild, surreal.
MM: Yeah. I think it's hard as a physician to advocate sometimes just because they're my colleagues, and I try not to push too hard, but at the same time, it's really important to make sure that we're speaking up when it comes to our health, our kids' health.
TBPM: What we love so much about you is that you’ve used this platform to continue to do good in our community, and you’re still here at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital saving lives and helping children. MM: I love my job so much. I think it would be hard to leave because I think my job gives me the authority to speak on what I speak on, and it gives me a lot of the content. I just love my job so much that leaving is out of the question. TBPM: What inspired you to become a pediatric emergency medicine doctor? MM: My grandfather was a physician, so being a doctor was always in the cards. It was always something that I wanted to do. And then as I moved through all of the steps, I had confirmation that this is really cool. This is really fun. I really enjoyed pediatrics. I think there's a lot of hope in kids that they're going to get better. When something is wrong, it's usually their parents' fault, not their fault, because they're just so innocent and amazing. And then emergency medicine is just so much fun. There's so much action and adrenaline that we're always just moving and going, and it just really fell into my ADHD vibe. I just love it. TBPM: With a major social media following often comes opportunities to monetize. Tell us why you decided to reinvest in our kids? MM: When I started making content, monetization wasn't even an idea, and then I started creating content, and there was monetization. I felt a little guilty, and I wanted to find a way to give back in a really concrete way.
There are different ways to do it. And I think being assertive and asking questions like: “Why do you think that? Tell me why labs wouldn't be indicated. Or can you tell me more about your thought process?” I think it’s important to make sure that you're communicating the symptoms that you're having and the timeline so that they have all the information to be able to make the decisions so that you guys are both on the same page. I'm a physician, and I encourage my patients and other patients to get second opinions. Just because one person thinks one thing doesn't mean it's always the right thing. I think it's always important to get a second opinion, especially if there's something big like surgery or cancer or a new diagnosis. TBPM: We could talk to you forever, but there is only so much space on this page! As you reflect on the last six years and the community you’ve been able to build, how does that make you feel? MM: It still feels very surreal. I don't feel any different. I feel the same, but obviously going out into public, people recognize me, and it's very positive — a lot of validation. They say, “I’m so grateful for you and all of the things that I've learned from you,” or “Hey, I saw that video about retractions, and I saw that in my kid, and I came to the ER.” It's very humbling that people are watching me, they're paying attention and they're listening, but it's also a lot of responsibility because I need to make sure we're getting the accurate information out there.
Follow Dr. Martin on TikTok @beachgem10 and Facebook & Instagram @Dr.Beachgem10
CONTINUED ON PAGE 34
if we wanted to do tournaments in Tampa, we would have to do them ourselves, but we also wanted to give back to the community. Mah Jongg is a very social game, and building rapport with our friends and neighbors was important to us both, but the added benefit of being a nonprofit and giving financial support to other charities that needed our help was even better. BW: From the beginning, we knew we wanted philanthropy to be an important part of what we were doing. We wanted to bring people together, give them an opportunity to enjoy a game that challenges their minds, build friendships and raise money for charitable causes in our community. We applied to become a nonprofit corporation, which took some time, but it was important to us that giving back be at the heart of the organization.
SHARING A LOVE OF MAH JONGG WHILE SUPPORTING LOCAL FAMILIES Judy Serrapica and Bonnie Wise,
founders of Dragons on the Green Mah Jongg Mah Jongg isn’t new, but it has certainly exploded in popularity in recent years and has likely made its way into your girls’ night out. I’m not going to lie — I was a little afraid of the game and all of its rules, but when my dear friend Erin convinced me it was time to learn, she brought Bonnie Wise and Judy Serrapica of Dragons on the Green Mah Jongg into our lives to teach us the game, and now … I get it. I see why people love this game so much! But the ladies are sharing so much more than their love of the game and passion for teaching. They don’t earn a profit teaching or hosting tournaments. When they created Dragons on the Green in 2016, they made it a nonprofit to support other nonprofits in our community. So when you pay for a lesson or tournament, you not only get to experience the magic of Mah Jongg, but you also get to feel the power of giving back! TBPM: Even though Mah Jongg isn’t a new game, how would you describe its resurgence in popularity for those unfamiliar with it? Bonnie Wise: Mah Jongg is a four-person tile game that combines strategy, skill, a little luck and a lot of social interaction. The version we teach is American Mah Jongg, which uses jokers, racks and a National Mah Jongg League card that changes every year. Players draw and discard tiles as they work to build specific hands. But honestly, Mah Jongg is so much more than a game. It’s a reason to get together, laugh, challenge your brain, meet new people and build friendships. And once you learn, it’s hard not to get hooked! Judy Serrapica: Being able to identify hands and to pivot when needed is important. I would say it is similar to Rummy, where you try to match suits and runs. TBPM: What do you love about teaching others how to play? JS: Seeing a student exclaim "Mah Jongg" for the first time is just as exciting for me as it is for them. I feel proud of them, and it means that I've done my job as an instructor. BW: Teaching is incredibly rewarding. I have a demanding daytime job, so teaching Mah Jongg gives me a few hours to focus on something completely different. I love introducing people to the game, watching their confidence grow and seeing friendships develop around the table. It’s especially rewarding when students go from learning the basics to organizing their own games and joining tournaments. We’re not just teaching people how to play a game; we’re opening the door to a whole new community. TBPM: Where did the idea for Dragons on the Green Mah Jongg come from? JS: Bonnie and I met at a Mah Jongg tournament and kept running into each other at various tournaments away from Tampa, and thought that
34 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2026
The name has a fun connection to the game, too. Our first tournaments were held at golf clubs, and many still are today. Dragons are tiles used in Mah Jongg, so Dragons on the Green is our play on words, combining the game we love with the golf clubs where we hold our tournaments. What started as a way for us to have more opportunities to play has grown into something much more meaningful. We get to share a game we love, bring people together, build friendships and give back to our community all at the same time. For us, it really is the perfect combination of friends, fun and philanthropy. TBPM: How do you decide which nonprofits to support with funds raised through teaching and tournaments? BW: Judy and I select charities based on our own experiences, as well as input and suggestions from our students and tournament players. Sometimes it’s an organization we’ve learned about through our own lives, and other times someone in our Mah Jongg community brings a cause to our attention that really touches us. It might be a local school, an organization helping families dealing with a particular disease or a cause supporting a child facing a difficult challenge. Those personal connections often make the biggest impact on us. We prefer to support local charities whenever possible because we feel we can make a more direct difference in our own community, but we also support larger national organizations when we feel strongly about their missions. One of the wonderful things about our Mah Jongg community is how much people care about helping others. Our students and tournament players aren’t just part of the game; they help us learn about needs in the community and identify opportunities to make a difference. TBPM: How much have you raised and given back to the community? How does that number make you feel? BW: Judy and I have raised and donated more than $50,000 in monetary donations to charitable causes, but that doesn’t tell the whole story. In addition to the money we raise, we donate Mah Jongg baskets and other Mah Jongg-related items to help charities with their own fundraising efforts. We donate class certificates for auctions and raffles, contribute our time to teaching and organizing tournaments and sometimes sponsor events to help other organizations raise money. When we think about everything we’ve been able to contribute, we’re incredibly proud and grateful. We started with a simple idea: to create more opportunities to play Mah Jongg while giving back to our community. To see that idea grow into a community where people enjoy the game, build friendships and help others is incredibly rewarding. TBPM: How can people learn more or find people to play with after learning? BW: The easiest place to start is our website, dragonsonthegreen.org. We share information about our classes, tournaments and upcoming events. We teach beginners and also help experienced players develop their skills. Our classes give people the opportunity to learn in a welcoming environment, and our tournaments offer a fun way to practice, meet other players and become part of the Mah Jongg community. Fun Fact: We also want to mention that they do all of this in their free time. Wise also serves as the Hillsborough County Administrator.
Dispense donations to the world. TAMPA BAY
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NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 35
Because every story deserves a happily ever after . . . F RIDAY, FE B R UA RY 5 , 2027 Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel
Scan to learn more!
PRESENTED BY HEART GALLERY OF TAMPA
Still Waiting for Their Happily Ever After by Lindsay Hermida
At the Heart Gallery of Tampa, we believe every child deserves a place to call home. For more than two decades, the Heart Gallery has helped children in foster care find the families they have been waiting for. What began as a way to share their stories through beautiful photographs has grown into so much more. Today, we walk alongside children and families throughout the adoption journey, from recruitment and matching to support, long after a child comes home. But at the heart of everything we do are the kids. Kids who have already experienced more uncertainty than most of us can imagine. Kids who are growing up, becoming teenagers, making plans for their futures and still wondering if there will be a family beside them for all of it. And when you think about what they are waiting for, it can be incredibly simple. “I just want someone to cheer for me in the stands.” “I just want someone to help me with my homework.” “I just want somewhere to come home to for the holidays.” “I just want someone who will love me no matter what.” Our kids aren't asking for perfect families. They aren't looking for fairy tales. They're looking for a family to provide the unconditional love they deserve. A family who will learn who they are, laugh with them, advocate for them and be there through the big moments and the everyday ones.
Because every child deserves to know what it feels like to belong. To have a seat saved for them at the dinner table. Someone in the audience looking for them on stage. A home they can come back to, even after they've grown up. For the children still waiting in the Heart Gallery, that is what a happily ever after looks like. And we believe every one of them deserves the chance to find theirs. If you've ever wondered what it could look like to adopt from foster care, start by simply learning more. We would love to answer your questions, walk you through the process and help you understand what taking that first step could look like.
Reach out to Lindsay@HeartGalleryTampa.org to learn more. NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 37
INSIDE LOOK
DADS FIGURE IT OUT FOUNDATION: Turning Empty Seats into Family Memories by Tara Payor, Ph.D.
For many Tampa Bay families, a trip to a professional sporting event is more than an afternoon or evening of entertainment. It is a chance to cheer together, share a new experience and make a memory that lasts long after the game clock hits zero. That belief inspired Dads Figure It Out Foundation’s Game Day Experience (GDE) program, which places donated sports tickets in the hands of families who would not have otherwise had the opportunity to attend the sporting event. Since launching in July, the program has distributed 137 sporting event tickets, including outings involving the Tampa Bay Rays, Buccaneers, Lightning and University of South Florida. “From the beginning, I wanted people to experience what I’ve always felt attending sporting events with my own family: the energy, the excitement and the opportunity to make memories together,” says founder Miguel DeLeon. DeLeon says that giving families the opportunity to attend sporting events provided something exciting for a few hours and meaningful for the long run. Participants
38 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2026
continuously express gratitude for the opportunity. After one Rays outing, a parent described the joy of watching her boys enjoy the baseball game, snacks and the freedom to cheer as loudly as they wanted. “We had the best time ever, and we will never forget it,” wrote one parent. The Dads Figure It Out Foundation discovered that giving away tickets to sporting events was only part of the solution. Parking, food and transportation can make even a free outing financially out of reach. GDE uses a working estimate of $30 per person for meals and $50 for parking when needed — approximately $170 in additional costs for a family of four. “We quickly learned that free tickets do not necessarily mean someone can afford to attend the game,” DeLeon explains. The Dads Figure It Out Foundation’s GDE program relies on a network of community organizations, ticket donors and local supporters. Partner organizations refer families who could benefit, fans contribute tickets they cannot use, and businesses or other donors help with meals, parking and transportation. Referrals are considered according to available tickets, timing, interests and practical needs.
To date, opportunities have reached families, foster youth and veterans. In one recent experience, two veterans attended a Tampa Bay Lightning game. As community support grows, the foundation hopes to expand its work across local sports. For people with unused seats, helping is straightforward: Visit DadsFigureItOut.org and submit a ticket offer through the Game Day Experience program. Mobile tickets are accepted, and although advance notice helps with coordination, last-minute offers are welcome. Families without tickets to donate can still make a difference. A $30 contribution can help provide a meal for one attendee; $50 can help cover parking. Businesses can contribute services or sponsor additional costs. “If your seats would otherwise be empty, they could become someone’s memory instead,” DeLeon says.
For ticket donations, support or information about community partnerships, visit DadsFigureItOut.org.
FAMILY GAMEDAY WITH THE KREWE $10 KIDS MEAL Enjoy gameday with the Krewe. Each kids meal includes a hot dog, chips, and water. Available at all home games.
NOV. 30 8:15 PM
DEC. 6 1:00 PM
DEC. 20 1:00 PM
JAN. 3 TBA
Scan QR code or visit BUCCANEERS.COM/TICKETS
NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 39
40 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2026
Moms to Know Meredith Andrade
Morning Co-host, Wild 94.1 FM | Midday host, Q105 FM | Host, Headlines and High Heels with Meredith podcast, RHStv | Afternoon host, 99.5 WQYK by Maggie Rodriguez, co-host of Daytime on WFLA
Popular radio personality Meredith Andrade hosts not one, but four shows, all while raising two young daughters. Not surprising for someone who’s been ambitious since the age of 12. “I launched my own pet-sitting business in St. Augustine and eventually made thousands of dollars, which I saved toward buying my first car,” she remembers. “From bagging groceries at Winn-Dixie to working at Regal Cinemas, I was always working toward something.” A college internship at a Jacksonville radio station started Andrade on the path that would eventually lead her to Tampa and a six-year stint with The MJ Morning Show. She briefly forayed into sports reporting — interviewing Tampa Bay Buccaneers players in the locker room — but ultimately returned to where her heart belongs, the entertainment space.
TBPM: What has your career evolution taught you about yourself? Meredith Andrade: Looking back, the common thread has always been ambition and reinvention. I’ve worked in different formats, taken risks, lost jobs I loved and found opportunities I never expected. Now, as a mom, I hope my daughters see that you don’t have to limit yourself to one dream or one version of who you’re supposed to be. I’m still figuring out what my next chapter looks like ... and that’s one of the most exciting parts. TBPM: Did your career aspirations or approach to working change when you became a mom? MA: Becoming a mom never made me less ambitious. In many ways, it made me want even more out of my career and my life. Once both of my girls were out of diapers, I felt ready to really push myself professionally again. Of course, the work-life balance is always a juggling act. Between careers, school schedules, activities and everything else that comes with raising a family, some days definitely feel like a circus! But no matter how busy life gets, I never want my daughters to question where they fall on my priority list. They are, without a doubt, the most important part of my life. My career is incredibly important to me, but I've intentionally made changes as my girls have grown. I'm home more, I'm not spending my nights working late like I once did, and I try to protect our weekends so we can actually be a family together. I still have big dreams for my career, but now success looks a little different. It's not just about what I accomplish professionally; it's about building a career I'm proud of while still being present for my daughters and my wonderful husband. For me, having both is the dream.
photo credit Darlene Barlows
TBPM: Is it challenging to be a mom in the public eye? MA: Being a mom in the public eye can definitely be interesting, but thankfully, I don’t embarrass easily! I’ve always believed that if something is funny, relatable and not going to hurt or truly embarrass my family, it’s fair game. Authenticity is incredibly important to me, and motherhood gives me an endless supply of material. Of course, there’s still a line. My family and friends deserve privacy, and truly sensitive moments stay within our family. But beyond that, I want my audience to get the real me, the working mom who loves her girls, her husband, laughs at the chaos and knows that sometimes the funniest stories are the ones happening right inside your own home. TBPM: What’s your advice for other working moms? MA: My biggest advice to other working moms is to give yourself some grace, and then give yourself a little more. You are never going to answer every email, make every school event, have a perfectly clean house, cook a homemade dinner every night, remember it’s Crazy Sock Day, and still somehow get eight hours of sleep. Something is going to fall through the cracks, and sometimes that something is going to be you! Most importantly, be present where your feet are. When I’m working, I try to give my work everything I have. When I’m with my girls, I want them to feel like they have me. Will I always get that right? Absolutely not. Am I perfect? No. But I’ve realized my daughters don't need a perfect mom. They need a happy, present mom who loves them like crazy. And on the days when everything completely falls apart? Order the pizza, ignore the laundry and try again tomorrow. That counts as balance too.
We are continuing with this column in memory of Julie Tingley, our friend and creator of our Moms to Know and Kids to Know pages, who passed away on April 6, 2025. Julie Tingley's Legacy of Love: givesendgo.com/GFGT6 NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 41
NEW SHOW! Premieres November 16
wedu.org/education
your guide to
TAMPA BAY AREA SCHOOLS WANT MORE?
SCAN HERE TO VIEW THE FULL EDUCATION DIRECTORY
NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 43
FEATURED LISTINGS
your guide to
TAMPA BAY AREA SCHOOLS
Bayshore Christian School
Berkeley Preparatory School
Canterbury School of Florida
Corbett Preparatory School of IDS
3909 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa 33611 813-839-4297; bayshorechristianschool.org
4811 Kelly Road, Tampa 33615 813-885-1673; berkeleyprep.org
1200 Snell Isle Blvd. NE, St. Petersburg 33704 (PK3-grade 4) 990 62nd Ave. NE, St. Petersburg 33702 (Grades 5-12)
12015 Orange Grove Drive, Tampa 33618 813-961-3087; corbettprep.com
Located in the heart of South Tampa, Bayshore Christian School is an accredited, independent, non-denominational Christian School serving students in K2 through 12th grade. Since 1971, Bayshore Christian School has been equipping students to excel academically, grow spiritually, and lead confidently. We are shaping young people in Christ to make an impact in the world.
Berkeley Preparatory School, ranked the #1 private school in Tampa by Niche, is a coed, independent day school in Tampa, educating students in pre-k through twelfth grade. Berkeley offers a safe, nurturing environment featuring inspiring teaching, engaged parents, and outstanding resources, including incomparable facilities on a beautiful, 86-acre campus. Our graduates attend some of the finest colleges and universities in the country— and become part of a powerful and close-knit alumni network.
Total Enrollment: 425 Class Size: 18 Grades: PK2 – grade 12 Tuition Range: $12,620 to $14,965
Total Enrollment: 1,480 Class Size: 9
727-525-1419; canterburyflorida.org
Since 1968, Canterbury School of Florida has transformed bright students into confident leaders. Our college preparatory program develops the whole child through rigorous learning, character building, and spiritual growth. Canterbury students graduate as young adults of integrity who embrace differences and approach challenges with purpose. We're cultivating the next generation of thoughtful stewards—students who will leave our halls with the knowledge, character, and empathy to create positive change in their chosen path.
Grades: PreK3- grade 12 Tuition Range: $24,180 to $37,040
Founded nearly 60 years ago, Corbett Prep offers the International Baccalaureate curriculum for all students. Teachers use research-based strategies to create hands-on learning experiences. Visual and performing arts, team sports and social-emotional learning curriculum align to develop confident, creative, innovative thinkers ready to contribute to the world in meaningful ways. Tuition includes school supplies and field trips.
Total Enrollment: 590 Class Size: Varies by grade Grades: Prek3-grade 8 Tuition Range: $18,190-$25,145
Total Enrollment: 460 Class Size: 8-15 Grades: PK3-grade 12 Tuition Range: $8,465-$27,950
44 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2026
KEY
uniforms
arts
financial aid
sports
transportation
The Tampa Bay area is lucky to have such a wealth of incredible private, charter and magnet education options that make it easy to find the perfect school for your child.
Countryside Christian 1850 N. McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater 33759 727-437-0090; myccacademy.org Countryside Christian Academy's mission is to provide excellence in Christian education while instilling Biblical principles in students’ lives that they might impact their society for Christ. Our program is fully accredited and well-balanced, encouraging the development of the whole child: spirit, soul (mind) and body.
Total Enrollment: 320 Class Size: 15 Grades: K5 - grade 8 Tuition Range: $12,600
Excelsior Prep & Woodmont Charter Schools 10402 N 56th St, Temple Terrace, 33617 813-644-9060 ; excelsiorpreptampa.com/signup/ index.jsp Excelsior Prep and Woodmont Charter Schools offer two distinctive, tuition-free K–8 programs on a modern Tampa campus. Small class sizes and caring, highly qualified teachers create a personalized learning experience, while hands-on STEAM education, Spanish-language instruction, athletics, arts, clubs, and leadership opportunities help students discover their strengths. In a safe, culturally rich community, students build confidence, character, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning.
Total Enrollment: 600 Class Size: 25 Grades: K-8 Tuition Range: Free
C o n ti n ue d o N pag e 4 6
Plato Academy Public Charter Schools
Shorecrest Preparatory School
Multiple Locations 727-205-6360; platoacademy.net
5101 1st St NE, St. Petersburg, 33703 727-522-2111; shorecrest.org
Plato Academy Schools offer TUITION-FREE public charter education at eight K-8 campuses and a High School (Tampa) proudly accredited by COGNIA. With a focus on the Greek language and culture. Learn more: platoacademy.net/faq
Total Enrollment: ~4000 Class Size: 20 Grades: PreK – grade 12 Tuition Range: Free
Founded in 1923, Shorecrest Preparatory School is a coed, nonsectarian, PK3-12 independent school in St. Petersburg, FL. In a safe, student-centered environment, Shorecrest educates a diverse community of students to become lifelong learners in the pursuit of personal and academic excellence, physical well-being, creative achievement and the development of a commitment to social responsibility. At Shorecrest, students feel the spark of curiosity, discover new opportunities, seek knowledge and experiences beyond the walls of the classroom, and take charge of their story.
Total Enrollment: 980 Class Size: 15 Grades: PreK3 - grade 12 Tuition Range: $24,300-$35,960
NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 45
FEATURED LISTINGS
your guide to
TAMPA BAY AREA SCHOOLS C o n ti n ue d
St. John’s Episcopal School Multiple Locations stjohnseagles.org Located in the heart of Tampa, St. John’s is an Episcopal, independent co-ed day school providing an exceptional education for 605 students in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade, distinguished by 75 years of demonstrated success. We believe in the sanctity of childhood. Our teachers and administrators partner with parents to ensure every child is known, nurtured, and inspired to thrive. We prepare children for lifelong learning and service by developing independence, curious minds, and strong character.
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St. Petersburg Collegiate High Schools
The Goddard School of Tampa - Temple Terrace
Multiple Locations 727-712-5891; spchs.spcollege.edu
13401 Tampa Oaks Blvd, Tampa, 33637
At St. Petersburg Collegiate High Schools, students don't have to wait until graduation to begin college. Our unique model allows students to earn a high school diploma and an associate degree simultaneously while learning on a college campus. With no cost for tuition, books, or fees, students graduate prepared for college, careers, and lifelong success.
Total Enrollment: 220 per location Total Enrollment: 605 Class Size: 21 Grades: Pre K- grade 8
813-978-8100; goddardschool.com Early childhood lays the foundation for a child’s future, making the preschool experience especially important. Goddard goes beyond traditional preschool by building kindergarten readiness and fostering academic, social and emotional growth. With a proven commitment to excellence, Goddard helps children develop confidence, creativity, compassion and a love of learning. Families choose Goddard because they want their children prepared not only for kindergarten, but for a lifetime of possibilities.
Class Size: 21
Tuition Range: $19,225-$21,195
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1551 Belcher Road, Palm Harbor, 34683 727-781-3808; westlakechristianschool.org Westlake Christian School is accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools/Cognia. Westlake’s mission is to help students develop in their faith, academics, fine arts, and athletics. Westlake serves approximately 580 students in kindergarten through eighth grade from Northern Pinellas County, Southern Pasco County, Trinity, Westchase, and surrounding communities.
Total Enrollment: 580 Class Size: 20
Grades: 9-12 Tuition Range: Free
Westlake Christian School
Grades: K-grade 8
Total Enrollment: 148 Grades: 6 weeks - VPK Tuition Range: $1,030-$1,737
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It starts with a
Schedule Your Tour Today!
Shorecrest Preparatory School — serving a diverse
community of students from 3 years old through 12th grade.
Join us for a Tour or Open House! Scan the QR code to schedule a visit.
Discover your SPARK at
NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 47
E N I G A REIM CHOOL MIDDLE S
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
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SPANISH LEARNING
NOW ENROLLING! GRADES K–8TH
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BETTERSCHOOLNOW.COM
your guide to
TAMPA BAY AREA SCHOOLS ACADEMY AT THE LAKES
2331 Collier Parkway, Land O' Lakes, 34639 813-948-7600; academyatthelakes.org A PK3–12th grade independent school dedicated to the success of each individual at school, in the community and in the world. We celebrate the love of learning and the joy in the journey. Students have opportunities to lead and to serve, to speak and to be heard, to make a difference and to feel and be important. Our inclusive school culture comes from our genuine commitment to forming meaningful relationships with each student and family.
Total Enrollment: 585 Class Size: 16 Grades: PK3–12 Tuition Range: $20,950– $32,650
ACADEMY OF THE HOLY NAMES
3319 Bayshore Blvd., Tampa, 33629 813-839-5371; holynamestpa.org Founded in 1881, The Academy is a private Catholic school for boys and girls in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade and a college preparatory high school for young women. Sponsored and guided by the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, the Academy is a faith community of exceptional love that empowers students to pursue their highest academic potential. The Academy is located on 19 acres fronting scenic Bayshore Boulevard, close to downtown Tampa.
Total Enrollment: 1,040 Class Size: Varies by division Grades: PreK- 8 (Coed); 9-12 (All Girls) Tuition Range: ~$21,000 – $28,000
ALEGRIA MONTESSORI SCHOOL
5995 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St. S, St. Petersburg 33705 727-310-8243; alegriamontessori.com Alegria Montessori School is an authentic Montessori program for ages 1 through middle school. It is a rich learning environment that supports individual development with a bilingual Spanish program from native Spanish speakers. With a true Montessori education through middle school, come discover the joy of Montessori.
Total Enrollment: 100 Class Size: Varies by age Grades: Ages 1 yeargrade 8 Tuition Range: Varies by age
BLAKE HIGH SCHOOL MAGNET SCHOOL OF THE ARTS 1701 North Blvd., Tampa, 33607 813-272-3422; hillsboroughschools.org/blake
Immerse yourself in a cutting-edge high school dedicated to performing, visual and communication arts. Students collaborate with local artists, organizations, universities and mentors, offering a comprehensive education in arts, technology and academics. This unique approach equips students with a competitive advantage for college and career prospects.
Grades: 9-12 Tuition Range: Free
BOYS PREPARATORY ACADEMY AT FRANKLIN MIDDLE MAGNET 3915 E. 21st Ave., Tampa 33605 813-744-8108; hillsboroughschools.org/franklin
As a Cambridge International Magnet School and the only boys-only school in the district, we are molding young men of distinction who will achieve greatness. We promote academic achievement, professionalism and self-confidence. Additionally, our young men prepare for college in a technology-rich environment where each student has an iPad available for daily learning and has access to robotics and a makerspace.
Grades: 6-8 Tuition: Free
CALVARY CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL
110 N. McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater, 33759 727-449-2247; cchs.us Calvary Christian High School offers an advanced college preparatory education in an environment where students are taught a Christian worldview with the Word of God being integrated into each subject. Calvary offers Honors, AP, and dual-credit courses. Extra-curricular activities include athletics, fine arts, SGA, clubs, and spiritual growth and leadership opportunities. KEY
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Total Enrollment: 890 Class Size: 22 average Grades: 9-12 Tuition Range: $17,500
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Give your student a head start on college, careers, and their future.
St. Petersburg Collegiate High Schools NURTURING TODAY’S LEARNERS AND TOMORROW’S LEADERS We offer a supportive educational experience that combines the benefits of both high school and college. Students thrive at SPCHS, earning a high school diploma, an associate degree, and the skills needed for future success. Tuition, books, and fees are FREE.
Three Convenient Campus Locations • SPC Downtown STEM Campus (9-12) • SPC Tarpon Springs (10-12) • SPC St. Petersburg/Gibbs (10-12) Scan to explore our campuses and begin your journey.
COME SEE WHERE JEWISH VALUES & ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE GROW TOGETHER A welcoming community Jewish day school for ages 1–8th grade, preparing students to excel academically, lead with chesed (kindness), deepen their connection to Israel, and grow as confident Jewish leaders.
ACADEMIC ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE EXCELLENCE
CREATIVITY & INNOVATION
CHAMPIONSHIP ATHLETICS
COMMUNITY CULTURE
DISCOVER THE HILLEL DIFFERENCE
SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY AT HILLELACADEMYTAMPA.COM/APPLY Financial Assistance for Qualifying Families • Bus Transportation Available
50 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2026
CARROLLWOOD DAY SCHOOL Multiple Locations 813-920-2288; CDSPatriots.org
Total Enrollment: 1,278
Carrollwood Day School is a premier International Baccalaureate (IB) World School in Tampa, FL, serving students from age 2 through 12th grade. CDS fosters a culture of inquiry, self-discovery and academic excellence. Our seamless curriculum equips students with the character, critical thinking and leadership skills needed to thrive globally. Explore our vibrant community of athletes, artists and innovators, and discover a world-class education designed to inspire greatness.
CHAMBERLAIN TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL OF INNOVATION & MEDICINE 9401 N. Blvd., Tampa, 33612 813-975-7677; hillsboroughschools.org/ctech
This brand-new magnet school gets students ready to explore highdemand career fields through hands-on, real-world learning. Students can learn through pathways in sports medicine, cardiovascular assisting, radiology, veterinary assisting, medical assisting, and innovation, as well as building construction.
Class Size: 18-20 Grades: PreK-grade 12 Tuition Range: $12,980 $32,455
Grades: 9-10; 11th grade will be added in the 2027-28 school year Tuition Range: Free
COMMUNITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL
4930 Webb Road, Tampa, 33615 813-886-2050; communitymontessori.org For over 37 years, Community Montessori School has provided a warm and secure community atmosphere combined with a high expectation for the quality of thought, work, interpersonal relationships and mastery of academic content and skills. Our goal is to provide a prepared environment that responds to the developmental needs of the age group and cultivates each child’s unique human potential by adhering to Montessori’s principles.
Total Enrollment: 110 Class Size: 20 average Grades: 16 Months Grade 9 Tuition Range: $10,065$14,490
DOWDELL MIDDLE MAGNET SCHOOL
1208 Wishing Well Way, Tampa, 33619 813-744-8322; hillsboroughschools.org/dowdell We bridge passion for the environment with real-world learning. Students can take unique environmental and animal science electives, learn outdoors with our nature walkway and experience our hydroponic and vertical gardening. Our partnerships with the Florida Aquarium and surrounding recycling companies help strengthen our mission to educate students.
Grades Offered: 6-8 Tuition Range: Free
DUNBAR ELEMENTARY MAGNET
1730 Union St., Tampa, 33607 813-276-5677; hillsboroughschools.org/dunbar At Dunbar’s Medical Magnet Program, young scholars experience STEM fields through hands-on curriculum and an interactive House Program. Students explore the human body systems and healthy habits with partners like St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, USF Health and more. Our Third Grade Accelerated Math Academy accelerates students through math studies, so they can continue the acceleration in middle and high school.
Grades: K-grade 5 Tuition Range: Free
ESSRIG ELEMENTARY MONTESSORI ACADEMY 13131 Lynn Road, Tampa, 33624 813-975-7307; hillsboroughschools.org/essrig
Essrig Elementary Montessori Academy is the first of its kind for Hillsborough County Public Schools. This self-directed and paced learning environment will foster rigorous, self-motivated growth for children in all areas of their development, nurturing their desire for knowledge, understanding and respect.
Grades: PK3, PK4, and K-grade 5 Tuition Range: Free
FLORIDA COLLEGE ACADEMY
7032 Temple Terrace Highway, Temple Terrace, 33637 813-899-6800; floridacollegeacademy.net Serving students in grades K-12 since 1958 through an accredited college preparatory program focused on academic excellence in a spiritual environment. Core values include reverence, respect, responsibility, and faith-based, non-denominational education that empowers our students to achieve their best through a culture of learning, spiritual growth, and leadership. KEY
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Total Enrollment: 478 Class Size: 15-20 Grades: K-12 Tuition Range: $9,525$10,725
NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 51
NOW ENROLLING START YOUR JOURNEY HERE
The Goddard S hoo of Te e Terra e
(813) 978-8100 Call us today for special tuitions rates
52 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2026
GIRLS PREPARATORY ACADEMY AT FERRELL MIDDLE MAGNET SCHOOL 4302 N. 24th St., Tampa, 33610 813-276-5608; hillsboroughschools.org/ferrell
As a Cambridge International Magnet School and the only girls-only school in the district, we are dedicated to developing confident, dynamic, educated young women. Our technology-rich, interactive learning campus — including our 1:1 technology program — infuses 21st century tech skills into every student’s learning. Mentoring opportunities and community engagement create well-rounded learners.
Grades: 6-8 Tuition: Free
GROVE ACADEMY IB WORLD SCHOOL 1000 N. MacDill Ave., Tampa, FL 33607 (813) 353-4100; groveacademyfl.com
Grove Academy, an authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, offers the Early Years Programme for children ages 2 through 5. Our unique approach blends inquiry, play and individualized learning, grouping children by developmental readiness rather than age. In this environment, students become independent, curious and confident lifelong learners.
Total Enrollment: 38 Class Size: 7 Grades: PreK3 - PreK4 Tuition Range: $15,000$18,000
HILLEL ACADEMY
2020 W. Fletcher Ave., Tampa Fl, 33612 813-963-2242; hillelacademytampa.com/ Tampa Bay’s only FCIS-accredited Jewish day school serving families across Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties. Through exceptional academics, dynamic Jewish life and a culture of “chesed” (kindness), students are known, supported and inspired to thrive. Small classes, individualized attention, innovative learning, athletics, arts, and enrichment empower students to excel, lead confidently, strengthen their Jewish identity, and deepen their connection to Israel.
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS COLLEGIATE ACADEMIES
901 E. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa 33602 813-272-4000; hillsboroughschools.org/acceleratedprograms Collegiate Academies provide students with the opportunity to earn an Associate of Arts degree (A.A.) through Hillsborough College while simultaneously completing their high school diploma. Interested students can apply through the magnet application process. Available at: Armwood High School, Lennard High School, Leto High School and Spoto High School.
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS IB ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
901 E. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, 33602 813-272-4000; hillsboroughschools.org/acceleratedprograms Guided by a global learning approach, the IB Elementary program focuses on developing the whole child, utilizing knowledge and skills from six subject areas. This emphasis on inquiry effectively enables students to explore beyond the traditional boundaries of subject-specific learning. Available at: MacFarlane Park Elementary Magnet (Tampa), Riverhills Elementary Magnet (Temple Terrace) and Lincoln Elementary Magnet (Plant City).
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS IB MIDDLE SCHOOLS
901 E. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, 33602 813-272-4000; hillsboroughschools.org/acceleratedprograms Middle school IB programs cultivate internationally minded, active learners who excel academically, empathize with others and are prepared to lead lives of purpose. Available at: Walker Middle Magnet School (Odessa/Citrus Park), Williams Middle Magnet School (Tampa), Greco Middle Magnet School (Temple Terrace) and Marshall Middle Magnet School (Plant City).
Class Size: Varies by age Grades: PK1-grade 8 Tuition: Varies by age
Grades: 9-12 Tuition: Free
Grades: K-grade 5 Tuition: Free
Grades: 6-8 Tuition: Free
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS - IB K-8 SCHOOLS 901 E. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, FL 33602 813-272-4000; hillsboroughschools.org/acceleratedprograms
In the K-8 school setting, the IB elementary program aims to develop inquiring and caring students, while the middle school program focuses on cultivating active, internationally minded learners with empathy and the skills to lead purposeful lives. Available at: Adum K-8, an IB Candidate School (South Tampa), Roland Park K-8 (Tampa) and York K-8 (Apollo Beach)
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Grades: K-grade 8 Tuition: Free
NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 53
Canterbury is more than a school day.
It’s where curiosity finds its calling!
Apply Now
54 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2026
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS - IB HIGH SCHOOLS 901 E. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, FL 33602 813-272-4000; hillsboroughschools.org/acceleratedprograms
IB High Schools offer students the opportunity to engage in the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program, combining rigorous coursework with a focus on critical thinking, global awareness and effective communication. Those who complete the program have the potential to earn the IB International Diploma, and a Bright Futures Scholarship. Available at: Alonso High School, King High School, Hillsborough High School, Robinson High School and Strawberry Crest High School
Grades: 9-12 Tuition: Free
HILLSBOROUGH VIRTUAL SCHOOL (HVS) 2704 N. Highland Ave., Tampa, 33602
813-983-7278; hillsboroughschools.org/virtual
Grades: K- grade 12
HVS gives families the flexibility of online learning with the support of local certified teachers. Students can enroll full-time, take part-time or co-enrolled courses, recover credits or access courses while participating in home education. With standard, honors and Advanced Placement courses, along with electives and industry certifications, students can build a learning path that fits their goals. HVS also offers in-person meetups and field trips. HVS accepts Step Up For Students Scholarships.
Tuition: Free
INDIAN ROCKS CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 12685 Ulmerton Road, Largo 33774
727-596-4342; ircs.org
Enrollment: 1,201
At Indian Rocks Christian School, we believe education is more than academics—it is a calling. Our mission is to help students discover and pursue God’s purpose for their lives in any ministry or any industry by nurturing a sound mind, a servant’s heart, and skilled hands. IRCS provides a Christ-centered learning environment where faith and knowledge grow together.
Class Size: 20 Grades: Ages 2-grade 12 Tuition: $9,250-$18,525
JEFFERSON HIGH SCHOOL – SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY & TOURISM 4401 W. Cypress St., Tampa, 33607
813-872-5241; hillsboroughschools.org/jefferson
Grades: 9-12
Discover your future at Jefferson High School’s School of Hospitality & Tourism Magnet Program which opened in 2026. Explore pathways in culinary arts, business and finance, law, criminal justice, cosmetology and welding, and gain hands-on experience, industry certification, and skills that set you up for college and career success. At Jefferson, your passion becomes your profession!
Tuition: Free
LAND O' LAKES CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
5105 School Road, Land O' Lakes 34638 813-995-9040; lolcs.org A Christ-honoring atmosphere for preschool through high school, Land 'O Lakes Christian School trains students to develop and grow spiritually, intellectually, socially and physically. We offer a fully accredited, balanced program that emphasizes spiritual life, challenging academics for college preparation, and opportunities for students to explore their interests and talents in fine arts and athletics.
Enrollment: 545 Class Size: 15-20 Grades: PreK3 - 12 Tuition: $5,500 - $7,900
LCC DAY SCHOOL
4400 Chancellor St. NE, St. Petersburg (727) 522-8331; lccdayschool.com/ At LCC Day School, every student's journey begins with curiosity, grows through capability and culminates in confidence. In partnership with church and families, we foster academic excellence, leadership, responsibility and faith, nurturing each child’s God-given potential from Preschool through eighth grade.
Enrollment: 486 Class Size: 18 Grades: PK2 - grade 8 Tuition: $9,724 - $18,612
LEE ACADEMY FOR GIFTED EDUCATION 3001 Lee Academy Court, Tampa 33614 813 931-3316; leegiftedacademy.com
Tampa Bay’s only school dedicated to gifted and advanced learners, Lee Academy, offers a comprehensive curriculum, small classes, and a scenic lakefront campus that promotes relaxation and reduces stress. With indoor and outdoor teaching spaces, the setting enhances learning beyond traditional classrooms. We have specialist teachers for all K-12 subjects, dual enrollment with local colleges, and a variety of field trips locally, nationally, and internationally. KEY
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Enrollment: 70 Class Size: 6-9 Grades: K-grade 12 Tuition: $16,900 $20,300
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SOAR at St. John’s
At St. John’s Episcopal School, we believe in the sanctity of childhood. Our K4-8 experience ensures every child is known, nurtured, and inspired to thrive — developing independence, curious minds, and strong character. Scan to learn more and schedule a tour!
813.849.4200 | admissions@stjohnseagles.org stjohnseagles.org
Teaching students to soar beyond the classroom.
Please call to join us for a tour on Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. or by appointment.
Discover the Westlake difference! westlakechristianschool.org 727.781.3808 EXCELLENCE IN ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT AND FAITH FORMATION
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LEWIS ELEMENTARY MONTESSORI ACADEMY 6700 E. Whiteway Drive, Temple Terrace, 33617 813-987-6947; hillsboroughschools.org/lewis
Lewis Elementary Montessori Academy is the second Montessori program within Hillsborough County Public Schools. Opening its doors to Pre-K and kindergarten students in the 2026-27 school year, the academy provides a self-directed, individualized learning environment that fosters rigorous, self-motivated growth in all areas of child development. Students are nurtured in their desire for knowledge, understanding, independence and respect as they learn and grow at their own pace.
Grades: PreK4-K, adding grade 1 for school year 2027-2028 Tuition: Free
LIGHTBRIDGE ACADEMY OF WESTCHASE
9660 W. Waters Ave., Tampa, 33635 813-397-6247; lightbridgeacademy.com/tampa-westchase-fl Lightbridge Academy of Westchase offers a warm, family focused environment where children learn, grow and thrive. With a passionate team and a strong commitment to safety, the center provides high quality care for infants through preschoolers. Its innovative Seedling Curriculum supports whole child development through hands on learning and exploration. Families experience a true circle of care that nurtures every child while strengthening the home school connection.
Enrollment: 186 Class Size: 15 Grades: 6 weeks – 6 years Tuition: $1,300-$1,700
LOCKHART ELEMENTARY MAGNET
3719 N. 17th St., Tampa 33610 813-276-5727; hillsboroughschools.org/lockhart A vibrant learning community where students are inspired to reach their full potential every day. The nationally recognized Project Lead the Way program engages students in hands-on activities, projects, and real-world problem-solving, allowing them to explore robotics, engineering challenges, outdoor learning, and wildlife habitats. With a strong focus on academic excellence, creativity, and character development, Lockhart provides a nurturing environment where students thrive.
Grades: K-grade 5 Tuition: Free
LOMAX ELEMENTARY
4207 26th St., Tampa, 33610 813-276-5569; hillsboroughschools.org/lomax Inspiring active, curious learners through engaging academics, arts, STEM, and leadership opportunities. Students explore their interests through programs such as Math Olympiad, chess, Future Problem Solvers, Odyssey of the Mind, World Drumming, violin, Little Kids Rock, LEGO and VEX Robotics. With a focus on critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and leadership, Lomax empowers every child to discover their passions, reach their potential and develop a lifelong love of learning.
Grades: K-grade 5 Tuition: Free
MIDDLETON HIGH SCHOOL
4801 N. 22nd St., Tampa, 33610 813-233-3360; hillsboroughschools.org/middleton As a premier, pre-collegiate STEM magnet, Middleton offers students specialized tracks in engineering, biomedical sciences, game design, and computer systems. Through rigorous, hands-on programs such as Project Lead the Way, students engage in real-world learning, earn dual-enrollment and AP credit, and gain industry certifications that give them a head start in college and careers.
Enrollment: 70 Class Size: 6-9 Grades: 9-12 Tuition: Free
MOTHER TERESA OF CALCUTTA 17524 Lakeshore Road, Lutz, 33558 813-933-4750; mtctampa.org
Mother Teresa of Calcutta Catholic School is a private Catholic K-8 school in Lutz. We provide a rigorous academic program in a nurturing, Christ-centered environment. Our mission is to develop students who strive for academic excellence, respect the dignity of every individual and embrace service to others while growing in faith, knowledge, character and compassion.
Enrollment: 450 Class Size: 25 Grades: K-8 Tuition: $9,132
MULLER ELEMENTARY MAGNET SCHOOL OF THE ARTS
13615 N. 22nd St., Tampa, 33613 813-558-1355; hillsboroughschools.org/muller
A hub of creativity, innovation, and academic excellence, proudly offering students the only elementary magnet experience with two programs — arts and environmental science. Students explore their passions through classes in dance, music, and art, as well as a digital rock band, performance groups, and an annual musical. At Muller, every student is empowered to develop critical thinking, creativity, and confidence.
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Grades: K-5 Tuition: Free
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berkeleyprep.org
APPLY NOW! www.holynamestpa.org
Founded in 1881, the Academy of the Holy Names is an independent Catholic school for boys and girls in pre-k through 8th grade and a college preparatory high school for young women.
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OUR SAVIOR LUTHERAN SCHOOL
5843 Fourth Ave. S., St. Petersburg 33707 727-244-1026; osls.net Established in 1982, Our Saviour Lutheran School is a Christ-centered academic community where students are equipped to strive for excellence, live love and share God’s Word. With one class per grade level, dedicated teachers and a strong tradition of academic achievement and spiritual growth, we provide an environment where every child can learn, grow, and thrive. Discover the difference. Enroll your child today.
Enrollment: 270 Class Size: 24 (1 class per grade level) Tuition: $5,900 - $10,650
ORANGE GROVE MIDDLE MAGNET SCHOOL OF THE ARTS 3415 16th St., Tampa 33605 813-276-5717; hillsboroughschools.org/orangegrove
At Orange Grove, students are encouraged to discover their talents, pursue their passions and shine. Our historic campus combines high academic achievement with exceptional opportunities in the arts, STEM and enrichment. Students have access to professional dance studios, video production facilities, visual arts labs and outstanding music and technical theater spaces — all designed to inspire creativity and confidence. Students at Orange Grove are empowered to grow, create and make their mark.
Grades: 6-8 Tuition: Free
PROGRESS VILLAGE MIDDLE MAGNET SCHOOL OF THE ARTS 8113 Zinnia Drive, Tampa 33619 813-671-5110; hillsboroughschools.org/progressvillage
Progress Village is a vibrant learning community where students explore, innovate and shine. We are proud to offer the largest dance and culinary arts programs in Hillsborough County Routinely recognized as a Magnet School of America national award winner, Progress Village provides engaging electives such as costume and fashion design, orchestra, journalism and more. With hands-on learning experiences in academics, STEM and the arts, students develop creativity, critical thinking, leadership and confidence.
Grades: 6-8 Tuition: Free
RAMPELLO K-8 DOWNTOWN PARTNERSHIP SCHOOL 802 E. Washington St., Tampa, 33602 813-233-2333; hillsboroughschools.org/rampello
As a Magnet Merit Award of Distinction Winner and AVID National Demonstration School in the heart of downtown Tampa, Rampello connects students to the arts, humanities and sciences through hands-on learning and exciting downtown partnerships. Students explore their passions while gaining college-ready skills and a sense of the endless possibilities ahead. At Rampello, learning comes alive, and every student leaves prepared to succeed in high school, college and beyond!
Grades: K-8 Tuition: Free
RODGERS MIDDLE MAGNET SCHOOL
11910 Tucker Road, Riverview, 33569 813-671-5288; hillsboroughschools.org/rodgers Dive into a rigorous Cambridge International curriculum with opportunities through the Cambridge Honors Institute, all while learning in Riverview’s beautiful Bell Creek Nature Preserve. Our students thrive with guidance from National Board-certified teachers, hands-on projects, and a focus on problem-solving and lifelong learning. Families and the community are at the heart of everything — volunteer, join PTSA/SAC, or partner with us!
Grades: 6-8 Tuition: Free
SHORE ELEMENTARY MAGNET SCHOOL OF THE ARTS 1908 Second Ave., Tampa 33605 813-276-5712; hillsboroughschools.org/shore
We are an award-winning Magnet School of the Arts located in historic Ybor City. Students learn through arts and science integration and can take part in the annual school musical. Students expand their horizons through visual art, dance, strings, music, drama classes, STEAM Engineering and robotics clubs. Our partnership with the Straz Center brings Broadway to our students, something you will find at no other school!
Grades: K-5 Tuition: Free
SLIGH MIDDLE MAGNET
2011 E. Sligh Ave., Tampa 33610 813-276-5596; hillsboroughschools.org/sligh As Tampa’s only health science magnet middle, Sligh gives students the chance to experience life as future health professionals — wearing scrubs, earning First Aid and CPR certifications, and even starting high school credits early. Through hands-on, project-based learning, students explore anatomy, nutrition, patient care and the many careers in health and medical science.
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Grades: 6-8 Tuition: Free
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SC
IS OPEN 2027-2028
A CHRIST-CENTERED EDUCATION WHERE STUDENTS ARE KNOWN, CHALLENGED, AND PREPARED TO LEAD WITH PURPOSE.
CHRISTIAN VALUES Building a foundation that lasts
813-839-4297
SMALL CLASS SIZES
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
APPLY TODAY
Personalized learning that makes an impact
Preparing students for life and leadership
K2-12TH GRADE
bayshorechristianschool.org
60 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2026
3909 S MacDIll Ave
SCAN TO SCHEDULE A TOUR OR START YOUR APPLICATION
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STEWART MIDDLE MAGNET SCHOOL – NASA EXPLORER SCHOOL
1125 Spruce St., Tampa 33607 813-276-5691; hillsboroughschools.org/stewart Located in Tampa’s North Hyde Park neighborhood, right on the beautiful Hillsborough River, Stewart Middle Magnet School is more than a school — it’s a launchpad. Stewart is a proud NASA Explorer School with nationally recognized STEM programs, hands-on learning and passionate educators. Community and excellence come together to prepare students to aim higher, dream bigger and succeed in a rapidly changing world.
Grades: 6-8 Tuition: Free
TAMPA BAY TECH HIGH SCHOOL
6410 Orient Road, Tampa, 33610 813-744-8360; hillsboroughschools.org/tbt Since 1969, TBT School has combined challenging academics with hands-on technical training to prepare students for college, careers and life beyond high school. Students can choose from AICE and Advanced Placement courses, industry certifications and career pathways in health sciences, veterinary sciences and architecture. TBT gives students the opportunity to turn their interests into skills.
Grades: 9-12 Tuition: Free
TAMPA HEIGHTS ELEMENTARY MAGNET
305 E. Columbus Drive, Tampa 33602 813-276-5405; hillsboroughschools.org/tampaheights At Tampa Heights Elementary Magnet School, students become innovative thinkers who thrive academically, socially and creatively. They experience enriching cultural clusters, including yoga, cooking, African art and LEGO makerspace, fostering curiosity, creativity and collaboration. Tampa Heights empowers every student to explore their passions and build confidence.
Grades: K-5 Tuition: Free
TAMPA PREPARATORY SCHOOL 727 W. Cass St., Tampa, 33606 813-251-8481; tampaprep.org
As the only grades 6-12 private school in Tampa Bay, Tampa Prep offers a learning environment that is innovative and forward thinking. We prepare students for a world of accelerated change by fostering a culture of creativity and excellence. Tampa Prep is preparation for life with a higher purpose.
YOUNG MIDDLE MAGNET ACADEMY OF PROFESSIONAL PATHWAYS
1807 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd., Tampa 33610 813-276-5739; hillsboroughschools.org/young At Young Middle Magnet School, we inspire students to become creative thinkers, problem-solvers and leaders of tomorrow. Students can explore their passions while building essential skills for the future. Our commitment to community and leadership shines through every aspect of the Young experience, creating a supportive and empowering environment.
Enrollment: 710 Class Size: 15 Grades: 6-12 Tuition: $32,512 $34,340
Grades: 6-8 Tuition: Free
your guide to
TAMPA BAY AREA SCHOOLS view our full education directory online at tampabayparenting.com
NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 61
Learning Adventures
Confidence reaches new heights for seventh graders who push themselves beyond their comfort zones.
HAPPY STUDENTS S E R I O U S E D U C AT I O N
CALL FOR A PERSONAL TOUR
(813) 961-3087 • PreK3-8th Grade • www.corbettprep.com
PRESENTED BY CORBETT PREP
Learning Leadership in the Middle School Years by Courtney Cairns Pastor
From entertaining kids as the school mascot to organizing community food drives, Corbett Prep eighth graders know how to lead. The structure of Corbett Prep as a PreK-8th grade school empowers preteens and young teens to act as role models, learn responsibility and explore their interests outside of the shadow of a high school. Faculty members give eighth graders opportunities to speak at major events, give admissions tours, run clubs and represent the school at competitions. Younger grades watch this class, honing their leadership skills so they are ready to step in with confidence when it is their turn. Schools that include elementary and middle school grades provide students with better social and academic experiences, studies show. They're happier, perform better academically and encounter less bullying than students who go to traditional middle schools. Corbett Prep’s Middle School is a safe place to learn and grow, thanks to educators who intentionally designed the program around the developmental needs of preteens and young teens. Student-centered practices and community building create a responsive environment that supports both academic achievement and personal growth. This focus on and understanding of students in fifth through eighth grade earned Corbett Prep international recognition this summer from an organization that specializes in middle schools. The Association for Middle Level Education named Corbett Prep a School of Distinction for 2026. This year, 39 schools in three countries received the AMLE designation, which honors schools for making an outstanding commitment to young adolescent education and setting “a powerful standard for middle grades best practices.” “The 2026 Schools of Distinction once again remind us that great middle schools do not happen by accident; they are built through intentional practices, strong leadership and a deep understanding of young adolescents,” AMLE CEO Chris Woodside said in a news release.
Located across the street from one another, Corbett Prep’s elementary and middle school have separate classrooms, lunch areas, gyms and fields but are close enough to retain a strong community feel. Activities such as buddy programs that pair younger and older students build relationships among all ages. Easy access to the Middle School for classroom visits and special events help elementary students feel more comfortable when they are ready to enter fifth grade. As fifth graders, Corbett Prep students enter a nurturing environment that bridges elementary and middle school programs. They gain access to social-emotional resources that align with their needs as young adolescents. This is the year that early adolescence starts, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Fifth graders are beginning to go through cognitive and physical changes that are more similar to older classmates than students in the younger elementary school grades. A good middle school knows how to address those developmental changes, AMLE reports, and creates educational programs that meet those unique needs of this age group. While the fifth graders mostly stay in their own classroom suite, they get to know the Middle School better through a science rotation with the sixth- through eighth-grade teachers and select a multigrade elective to dive deeper into a personal interest. They also work closely with sixth graders in advisory groups that help them meet more teachers and students, think about their values and identities and work on regulating emotions. In all grades, students study in collaborative learning environments in an International Baccalaureate framework that ties units to a global context. Teachers encourage students to take increasing ownership of their learning while developing the confidence, agency and sense of responsibility needed to contribute thoughtfully and positively to the world around them. When Corbett Prep students complete eighth grade, they have gained the confidence to speak before audiences, the skills to work successfully on teams and the grit to push outside their comfort zones. High schools appreciate that our Corbett Prep graduates ask questions, are academically prepared independent thinkers, and know how to work positively and respectfully with students of all cultures and backgrounds. NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 63
a place to BE YOURSELF Applications for the 2027-28 school year are now open
apply today! www.tampaprep.org
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TEACHER to Know
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Andrew Hoy
Choral Music Teacher at Tampa Preparatory School by Julia Freeman
For Andrew Hoy, teaching is about much more than music — it’s about helping students discover their voices, build confidence and experience the power of creating something together. Inspired by his mother’s dedication to youth programs and shaped by his own lifelong love of music, Hoy has spent 16 years at Tampa Prep encouraging students to challenge themselves, embrace collaboration and find joy in performance. From local stages to Carnegie Hall and historic cathedrals in Austria, his students have experienced remarkable opportunities — and carried those experiences with them long after the final note.
TBPM: What inspired you to become a teacher? Andrew Hoy: My mom's involvement with youth programs was a massive source of inspiration. Through her example, I learned the profound impact of mentoring young people during the incredibly formative years of adolescence. TBPM: What drew you to teaching music and chorus? AH: I started piano lessons in seventh grade and quickly reached a point where I couldn't pass a piano without playing through one of my pieces! I fell in love with musical theater when I played Patrick in “Mame,” and in eighth grade, I joined my middle school vocal ensemble and discovered the joy of making music with friends. Singing in the All-State Chorus that year opened my eyes to a whole new level of music-making.
Beyond these unforgettable venues, I push students musically by introducing diverse genres — from traditional choral repertoire to musical theater and pop. Our showcase openings frequently feature selections from major films and musicals, like “The Greatest Showman,” “La La Land,” “Wicked” and “Pitch Perfect.” TBPM: What do you hope students carry with them long after they leave your classroom? AH: On a practical level, I hope students leave with strong foundational skills so they can continue singing in college ensembles, community choirs or a cappella groups. More importantly, I hope they learn that true excellence is never forged through mediocre effort — a strong work ethic and deep collaboration are essential no matter what path they choose in life.
I continued singing in high school show choirs and later in college at USF. Through leading various ensembles, I realized that my greatest satisfaction in life comes from collaborating and making music with others.
Above all, I want them to cherish the memories made during school concerts, Disney Candlelight performances, and travel to NYC, Nashville, Washington, D.C. and Vienna. Hearing that my former students remain lifelong friends with their choir peers is the ultimate reward.
TBPM: Why do you think it is important for students to be exposed to the arts?
TBPM: What do you love about teaching at Tampa Prep?
AH: The arts are an essential pillar of a well-rounded education, giving students a space to create, express themselves and build collaborative skills. If the goal of education is to enrich individual lives and improve society as a whole, then the arts are an indispensable piece of that puzzle. TBPM: How do you help students see themselves as capable, confident performers? AH: Confidence starts with preparation. Students in our program practice diligently from bell to bell, study their parts independently at home and work together in small groups to perfect their harmonies. Knowing your music inside and out is the first step toward a confident performance, but true belief in yourself comes through experience. That is why our students perform frequently throughout the year, both on campus and across the community. We participate in Florida Vocal Association events — including All-State Chorus, Solo & Ensemble and District and State Music Performance Assessments (MPAs). Last year, all three of our choirs earned straight Superiors at both the District and State levels! TBPM: How do you inspire students to push past what they think they're capable of? AH: I love creating ambitious, high-stakes performance opportunities that challenge students to rise to the occasion. In 2024, our choir sang the National Anthem for 65,000 fans at the Bucs/Broncos game and performed on stage at Carnegie Hall. In 2026, we took our music abroad to perform in four historic cathedrals across Austria.
AH: Tampa Prep was my first full-time teaching job 16 years ago, and even after all this time, every single year feels fresh and exciting! The school provides incredible financial support, allowing me to regularly refresh our music library, purchase keyboards, buy risers and perform in our incredible Black Box Theater. During my tenure, we've completed two major renovations of the music suite, adding dedicated practice rooms for our students. Additionally, the Faculty Life Fund supports my ongoing professional development through national conferences and workshops. Finally, because Tampa Prep offers so many elective options, every student in choir chooses to be there. That shared commitment creates an unbeatable classroom dynamic — choice truly matters! TBPM: What are you most proud of? AH: I am most proud to say that I chose a career I genuinely love every single day. Tampa Prep is Tampa Bay’s only private, independent grades 6-12 school, located along the Riverwalk in downtown Tampa. We encourage students to Think, Create, Be Themselves, Aspire to Excellence and Go Beyond. Tampa Prep is more than a college preparatory school. We are preparation for life with a higher purpose than self.
tampaprep.org Applications are now open for the 2027-28 school year! NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 65
Every student is unique. That’s why Hillsborough County Public Schools offers more opportunities to learn, grow and prepare for the future—in safe, supportive learning environments where students can thrive. From STEM, advanced academics and the arts, to career and technical education, athletics, specialized programs and more, students can explore opportunities that match their interests, goals and learning needs. With more than 40 tuition-free Magnet Schools, families can find engaging programs and learning environments designed to help students build their future.
Explore the possibilities. Discover what’s next. Apply Now! Magnet & School Choice Application Window is Now Open through December 7 at 11:59 p.m.
hillsboroughschools.org/Choice Find Your School at an Upcoming Magnet Event! Ask questions, meet educators, and apply on the spot: Middle School Night • November 9 • 5–7 p.m. Chamberlain High School
Elementary Magnet Festival • November 14 • 5-7 p.m. Blake High School Last Peak • December 3 • 5-7 p.m. Armwood High School
More Opportunities Start Here: HillsboroughSchools.org/Magnet
Five Reasons I’m Thankful My Child Goes to a Hillsborough County Public School! by Laura Cross
’Tis the season to give thanks! And if your child attends a Hillsborough County Public School (HCPS), there’s plenty to be thankful for! So, moms, dads, grandparents and loved ones, sit back, relax and get ready to celebrate all the opportunities that help HCPS students discover their potential and find their paths to success. Here are five reasons to be thankful your child attends a Hillsborough County Public School!
1 Magnet and School Choice Opportunities Every child has unique dreams, interests and strengths, and Hillsborough County Public Schools offers programs designed to help them shine! Through its School Choice and Magnet programs, HCPS provides innovative learning environments and specialized pathways that inspire students to explore their passions and reach their full potential. From STEM and Performing Arts to Medical, International Baccalaureate, Collegiate programs and so much more, there are opportunities to match a wide range of interests and ambitions. The School Choice and Magnet application window is open now through Dec. 7. Explore the possibilities and find a program that’s the right fit for your child!
2 An A-Graded School District Now that’s something to celebrate! For the first time in more than a decade, Hillsborough County Public Schools earned an A rating from the state. This achievement reflects the hard work, dedication and collaboration of our teachers, school staff, students and families. It’s a reminder that when schools and families work together, great things can happen. HCPS is moving in the right direction, and that’s certainly a reason to give thanks!
3 Learning Goes Beyond the Classroom Education is about so much more than textbooks, tests and homework. At HCPS, students have opportunities to discover new interests, build friendships, develop leadership skills and create memories that last a lifetime. From competitive athletic teams and special-interest clubs to community service projects and extracurricular activities, there are countless ways for students to get involved and find their place. Many schools also offer opportunities for parents to connect, volunteer and become more involved in their child’s educational journey. Because some of life’s most important lessons happen outside the classroom!
4 College and Career Readiness Whether your child dreams of attending college, entering a skilled profession or discovering a career they love, HCPS offers pathways to help them prepare for the future. Students can challenge themselves through Advanced Placement (AP), Cambridge AICE and Dual Enrollment courses. Families can also take advantage of college readiness events, FAFSA assistance and specialized college and career counselors at every high school to help navigate the next steps. And for students whose goals lead directly into the workforce, HCPS offers career-focused programs, technical education, hands-on skillbuilding opportunities and industry certifications.
Whatever their dreams may be, students have opportunities to explore their options, build valuable skills and take meaningful steps toward their future.
5 The People Who Make the Difference Above all, there’s one thing that makes HCPS special: its people. Our dedicated, caring and passionate teachers and staff go above and beyond to help students succeed. They are the teachers who notice when a child is struggling, the coaches who build confidence and the counselors who offer support when a student needs it most. They’re the bus drivers who greet students first thing in the morning, the school resource officers who help keep campuses safe and the countless staff members who work behind the scenes to make each school day possible. These are the people who encourage, inspire, guide and believe in our children — even when the road gets tough. Their commitment makes a lasting difference, and they are a big part of what makes HCPS a community to be thankful for.
A Season of Gratitude So, this Thanksgiving, let’s celebrate the opportunities, achievements, experiences and people that make our schools special. Let’s thank the teachers who inspire us, the families who partner with us and the communities that support our students every step of the way. At Hillsborough County Public Schools, every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow and discover what’s possible. And that’s something worth being thankful for … Not just during the holiday season, but all year long!
Happy Thanksgiving from Hillsborough County Public Schools! NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 67
FLORIDA’S FIRST IB PRESCHOOL Offering a play-centered, inquiry-based early childhood education where children learn through curiosity, exploration, and meaningful experiences. LOW STUDENT-TEACHER RATIOS INQUIRY-BASED LEARNING 1000 N MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33607 Phone: 813-353-4100 Instagram: @groveacademyfl License #C13HIO774
SERVING STUDENTS AGED 2 THROUGH 5 SKILL-BASED GROUPING TO MEET INDIVIDUAL STUDENT NEEDS
LCC DAY SCHOOL
Curious. Capable. Confident. 813.995.9040 www.lolcs.org school@fbclol.org 5105 School Road Land O’ Lakes, FL 34638
Our Mission
At LCC Day School, we nurture each child’s God-given potential from preschool 2's through eighth grade.
DISCOVER THE LCCDS DIFFERENCE. w w w. l c c d ays c h o o l . c o m
727-522-8331
68 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2026
To assist parents in their God-given responsibilities of educating their children through Godly character and academic excellence, and to partner with the church in its biblical mandate to evangelize the world, edify the body of Christ, and equip Christians for service
PreK3 - 12th Grade Fully Accredited Affordable Tuition Dual Enrollment Fine Arts & Athletics
AN ARRAY OF AUTUMNAL ACCOUNTS by Lauren Jamro
Fall is a magical time when nature begins to quiet down and prepare for winter's dormancy. Leaves change color, squirrels fortify their acorn stores and the wind turns brisk and chill. But here in Florida, the tropical heat continues as usual. Well, at least we can read about the changing of the seasons. Below is a selection of recently published books about autumn to help you pretend that the weather is getting cooler.
The Bear and the Seed by Poonam Mistry
Now I See Fall by Mac Barnett
Every single tree that makes up the forest in which Bear lives suddenly disappears overnight. Most of the forest animals leave to find new homes, but Bear finds a tiny seed. Determined to help it grow, Bear asks passing animals for advice on how to care for it. As winter deepens, Bear can’t fight the need to hibernate and goes to sleep hoping that the forest can be renewed with his help. “The Bear and the Seed” is beautifully and uniquely illustrated.
In this minimal-text board book, readers experience the fall season through snippets of scenes. It is part of a quartet focused on the seasons but can easily be read as a stand-alone. The illustrations feature the rose-gold hues of fall and the world's barrenness as it prepares for winter.
Errol's Fall by Gillian Hibbs Part of a series, this board book follows Errol and friends as they experience fall activities. The kids harvest vegetables from the garden, build a hotel for bugs to spend the winter in and carve pumpkins. The bright illustrations are a cheerful depiction of autumn.
The Cranky Cranberry: A Thanksgiving Story About Gratitude and Friendship by DK It’s Thanksgiving morning, and Christy the Cranky Cranberry is officially OVER it. A fallen tree has ruined the celebration, and Christy is the only one not sad about it. She’s bored with the usual traditions, so she strikes out in search of new activities. None of these new experiences hit the mark, and Christy begins to miss the Thanksgiving festivities and spending time with all of her friends.
Sign the Seasons: Fall: Learn 8 ASL Signs by Kathy MacMillan
This board book depicts fall experiences with warm and cozy artwork. Readers can also learn eight relevant ASL signs, with illustrated and written instructions for making them. This is part of a series that explores the four seasons.
Marvel's Iron Man and his Awesome Friends: Leaping Into Fall by Random House
Tony Stark gets in on the fall fun with a pumpkin party! A villain named Swarm threatens to ruin the event, so Tony joins forces with Riri Williams and Aña Corazon to stop her. Fans of Marvel's “Iron Man and his Awesome Friends” animated series can celebrate the season with these super friends.
Pumpkin Spice & Everything Nice by Dienesa Le
"Pumpkin Spice & Everything Nice" celebrates the true stars of Thanksgiving — the food! Cute pictures of smiling traditional holiday dishes pair nicely with food-based puns. This board book is the latest addition in the Pun in a Million series.
NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 69
ONE “A A” DISTRICT. MANY PATHS. There’s a right path for every child and it starts here. From PreK to graduation, Pinellas County Schools offers a wide range of learning options designed to support each student’s interests, strengths, and needs.
“A” RATED DISTRICT
27 MAGNET & FUNDAMENTAL PROGRAMS
READY TO WORK CTE PROGRAMS
READY FOR KINDERGARTEN
MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPERIENCE
GRADUATION RATE 93.4%
100% STUDENT SUCCESS ENROLL TODAY AT PCSB.ORG/ENROLL
Seven Family Resource Centers across Hillsborough County offer free services for families
Brandon 813-740-4634
Central Tampa 813-204-1741
South County 813-641-5600
Plant City 813-752-8700
Temple Terrace 813-435-3032
Town ‘N Country 813-356-1703
Families are supported with:
Developmental Playgroups
Ready to Learn Assistance Healthcare CPR & First Aid Enrollment Certification Assistance Developmental Tutoring
Screening
North Tampa 813-558-1877
Car Seat Safety Classes
Family Service Coordination
Family Counseling
Information & Referrals
Variety of CenterDriven Activities
Mobile Clinic Services including: Child Well Care, Immunizations, Vision & Hearing Screenings, Dental
NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 71
Learn more at FloridaMilk.com
PRESENTED BY FLORIDA DAIRY FARMERS
Helpful Tips for Kid-Friendly Holiday Meals Even Picky Eaters Will Love! by Brie Gorecki
The holidays are upon us again, which means soon you’ll be whipping up a festive feast or enjoying dinner with family and friends. If you have a picky eater, you know that holiday meals can be challenging. We spoke with Sandy Selby, MS, RD, CSSD Senior Manager, Nutrition Outreach for Florida Dairy Farmers, for some suggestions on how to make holiday meals more kid-friendly and help picky eaters get essential nutrients (like those found in dairy) from their meals. TBPM: What are some good foods to serve picky eaters that’ll make meals more enticing? Sandy Selby: Try to incorporate as much color as possible, like fruits and vegetables. Overall, it's really about variety. We don't want kids to just eat from the grains group or the protein group. We want to incorporate all five food groups into our diet, including dairy, which contributes 13 essential nutrients, that can give you a lot of bang for your buck nutritionally. TBPM: What are some fun ways to incorporate more dairy during holiday meals? SS: Serve what works best for you, like a yogurt-covered banana, for example. You could dip a banana in yogurt, freeze it and add peanut butter or a drizzle of chocolate — something that's going to make it a little bit more fun. Flavored milk is also a great tool. They are going to add a little bit of extra sugar to the diet; however, that will be offset by the additional nutrients you're going to receive from the milk. Oftentimes kids actually drink more flavored milk than they would white milk, so they're getting an increased boost in nutrition too. TBPM: Any tips to sneak in certain foods or ingredients that kids might not love, but would provide extra nutrients? SS: The one that comes to mind most frequently is swapping sour cream for Greek yogurt. You’re going to increase protein, but you're going to have a similar taste and texture. Mostly, it's about adding. What can be added to a recipe? Maybe cheese added to mashed potatoes. A yogurt dip for fruit or vegetables made from Greek yogurt rather than a dip that might be more sugary or lower in protein. Simple swaps make the difference.
Whether you're dining at home, visiting someone else or eating out, try to ensure that there are one or two safe foods; foods that you know your child will eat.
TBPM: Do you have any suggestions for kids who don’t like dairy foods or can’t have dairy in their diet?
TBPM: Any advice on how to respond to your child when someone questions what’s on their plate?
SS: Food allergies are very real — potentially life-threatening. For kids with a dairy allergy, look at things like soy milk or pea milk, which are nutritionally comparable to cow's milk, offering a similar eight grams of protein per cup. For kids who may be a bit pickier, expose them to new foods. Just put a little bit on their plate. They're seeing it, touching it, smelling it; they may not eat it the first time, but seeing it frequently may encourage them to try it down the road. Adding Greek yogurt or cheese to mashed potatoes is a really good example where it’s not super visible, and you're getting more of that potato experience, but you are increasing nutrition benefits too. Regardless of how a child eats, the goal is to add as much food variety as possible to get the nutrition they need for proper growth and development. It’s not always possible for picky eaters to have a regular rotation of different foods, so it’s important that they get that variety. TBPM: How can we make picky eaters comfortable with holiday meals prepared outside their home? SS: It can be a struggle. The best advice I have is to put a little bit on their plate, expose them to it, but do not force them to consume it. It's an exposure. Maybe expose them to it five or 10 times, and eventually, they may realize, “Okay, I've seen this before, maybe I'll give it a taste.”
As parents, we have to give ourselves grace; we know that one meal is not going to make or break their whole diet. If they have a couple of foods that are familiar and feel safe to them, that is fine for a meal or two during the holidays.
SS: Tell your children, “I want you to listen to your body. Are you giving your body what it needs? Do you feel full? Is there something else that you'd like to add to your plate?” Ultimately, we can help decide what goes on their plate, but they're the ones who decide what they eat. So, make sure that they feel comfortable, and everything else is another person's opinion.
Scan the QR code for more tips on helping picky eaters, plus a selection of delicious, dairy-filled, kid-friendly recipes to make this holiday season!
Discover the benefits of dairy and explore delicious, family-friendly recipes at floridamilk.com. NOVEMBER 2026 TampaBayParenting.com 73
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Ta m p a B a y P a r e n t i n g . c o m
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Turkey Trots in Tampa Bay Explore some awesome ways to spend Thanksgiving morning while racing for a good cause!
Weekend Top Picks: The best ways to play as a family in the Tampa Bay area
Things to Do with Toddlers: Educational activities, playgrounds and more!
The Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Tampa Bay: Must-visit spots to dine as a family
25+ Indoor Places to Play: Where to keep your cool this fall with the kids
40+ Free and Cheap Things to Do: Where to explore and play on a budget in Tampa Bay
Holiday Lights in Tampa Bay Where to find the best holiday light displays in Tampa Bay 78 TampaBayParenting.com NOVEMBER 2026
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Follow along with us for inside looks of fun things to do with the kids in Tampa Bay, behind-the-scenes, sneak peeks and more.
Things to Do Thanksgiving Break From camps to what's NEW and all of the holiday events opening this holiday season, we're sharing it all!
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320 W. Kennedy, Ste. 220 Tampa, FL 33606
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