Photo courtesy of State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota.

State College of Florida’s Collegiate Schools stand as a model for what is possible when high school and college pathways are intentionally aligned. With two Florida Department of Education Grade A campuses and a nationally recognized Blue Ribbon School designation for SCF Collegiate School Bradenton, the program continues to demonstrate excellence in academics, student support, and college readiness. Many graduates also benefit from articulation agreements with USF Sarasota-Manatee, New College of Florida, and Florida Gulf Coast University, allowing them to complete their bachelor’s degrees with little to no debt.

This commitment to student success is further strengthened by the transformational generosity of Dr. Jervey, whose recent donation has led to the renaming of two Collegiate School buildings in his honor. His investment reflects a shared belief in expanding access to rigorous education and ensuring students have the facilities and resources they need to thrive. The renamed buildings symbolize not only growth, but a lasting legacy of opportunity for future generations of SCF students.

The purpose of SCF’s Collegiate Schools is clear: to prepare motivated middle and high school students for successful independence as full-time dual enrollment students on the SCF campus. Through a teacher-led curriculum designed to challenge and expand academic skills, students are immersed early in a college-ready environment. Each student is supported by an academic coach and college advisor who guide them throughout their journey, helping them navigate coursework, build self-advocacy skills, and plan for what comes next after graduation.

Beyond the classroom, students benefit from a wide range of enrichment opportunities that encourage creativity, curiosity, and personal growth. After-school programming includes art, ballet, martial arts, creative writing, gardening, and language acquisition. Students also participate in intellectually challenging clubs such as competitive VEX Robotics, debate, and award-winning Judicial Mock Trial teams. School-wide initiatives, from Red Ribbon Week to Florida Literacy Week, further foster civic awareness and shared responsibility.

Community engagement is a cornerstone of the Collegiate Schools experience. Through student-led organizations such as Key Club and National Honor Society, students participate in beach cleanups, veteran outreach, and reading initiatives for younger students. These opportunities reinforce the importance of service while helping students develop leadership and teamwork skills.

Because the Collegiate Schools are located directly on SCF campuses, students benefit from unparalleled access to college facilities, including science labs, libraries, learning centers, and performing arts venues. Once fully enrolled in dual credit coursework, students are taught and supported by SCF faculty and staff as they work toward earning an Associate in Arts degree alongside their high school diploma.

With graduation approaching this May, SCF is preparing to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2026 while welcoming the next generation of Collegiate School students. The impact of the program is best captured through student voices. Reflecting on the support that shaped their growth, one student shared, “In 6th grade, my Coach was Mr. C, and he always taught us how to advocate for ourselves and never be afraid to ask for help.” That emphasis on self-advocacy, reinforced through high expectations and meaningful support, defines the Collegiate Schools experience. By combining academic rigor, personalized guidance, and real-world college exposure, SCF’s Collegiate Schools continue proving that an innovative, supportive educational model can empower students to reach their goals with confidence and purpose.

 Tommy Gregory, J.D. is the President of State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota.

Photo courtesy of State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota.