Page 15 - Florida Sentinel 5-13-16 Online Edition

Feature
New High School Targets Students Of Low Income Families
BY IRIS B. HOLTON Sentinel City Editor
In the fall of 2016, a new high school will emerge for students in Tampa. Un- like other private institutions, the school caters to students of low income families.
The name of the education facility is Cristo Rey Tampa High School. It will be located at 6400 E. Chelsea Street. School officials are currently accepting applications for 9th grade students.
On Saturday, May 14th, from 8:30 a.m. until noon, parents can visit the campus and talk with officials during their Open House event.
The opening of the Tampa campus of the high school marks the 32nd such institution in the nation. The first school was opened by the Jesuits 20 years ago in Chicago.
Charles D. Imbergamo, Presi- dent & CEO of Cristo Rey Tampa High School and Corporate Work Study Pro- gram, stated, “Our partnerships in the community are a constant reminder that together educational leaders and business leaders can actively collabo- rate to provide more meaningful educa- tional experiences both for our students’ success in studies and in life.
“Educational skills, relational skills, job skills, and ethics are critical for a prosperous future. We are forging the kind of bonds that will last a lifetime!”
The concept is unique in that the school offers students a vigorous pro-
CHARLES D. IMBERGAMO, President & CEO of Cristo Rey Tampa High School and Corporate Work Study Program
gram that focuses on academics, work experience, and character education. The students must maintain at least a “C” average, and maintain good disci- pline. They also cannot have more than 5 absences in a school year.
The school will launch its inaugural class of 100 to 125 9th grade students in the fall. In order to graduate the stu- dents must have 4 credits of English, Mathematics, and Religious Studies; 3 credits of Science and Social Studies; 2 credits of Foreign Language and Fine Arts; 1 credit of Health and Physical Ed-
Cristo Rey Tampa High School, 6400 E. Chelsea Street
ucation and 5 credits of Electives.
The students must also be willing to work five full days each month in the Corporation Work Study Program (CWSP) and must qualify for the Step Up For Students Program (same quali- fications as the free and reduced lunch price meals program in public schools). The CWSP also prepares the youngsters for the real world job market. The money earned is applied to the child’s
education.
The students must also be moti-
vated and mature enough to handle a rigorous academic curriculum.
Since its inception in 1996, more
than 10,000 students have graduated from the program and continued their education at higher institutions of learning.
In order to attend the school, par- ents must apply for the scholarship. Students chosen to attend must attend an intensive two-week program during the summer known as the Summer Bridge. The Summer Bridge provides a strong foundation during the first school year.
For additional information about Cristo Rey Tampa High School call (813) 621-8300; or visit the website at www.cristoreytampa.org.
FRIDAY, MAY 13, 2016 FLORIDA SENTINEL BULLETIN PUBLISHED EVERY TUESDAY AND FRIDAY PAGE 3-B