More to The Story | Hillsborough County Public Schools

Hillsborough County Public Schools

More than headlines. More than statistics. This podcast from Hillsborough County Public Schools takes you inside the classrooms, hallways, and communities that shape education every day. In just 15 minutes per episode, hear real conversations with students, teachers, school leaders, families, and community partners—and see how innovation and impact unfold across HCPS. Because there’s always more to the story.

  1. May 20

    Student Voices

    This episode is all about student perspective — because who better to tell the story of our schools than the students who have lived it every day? From their first days in kindergarten to their final year of high school, students experience so much growth, learning, and change along the way. Today, I’m joined by two of our high school seniors, Ella Connell and Dillon Colaso, who are here to reflect on their K–12 journey, share what has stood out to them, and talk about what’s next as they prepare to graduate.

    Student Voices

  2. May 15

    Getting to Graduation

    For this episode, we’re today we’re celebrating a milestone worth recognizing. Our district has reached the highest graduation rate in our history — 90.9 percent, and when looking at traditional high schools alone, that number climbs to 93 percent! Behind every one of those percentages is a student, a story, and a team of educators working together to help that student reach one of the most meaningful milestones in their academic journey — walking across the stage to receive their diploma. Joining the podcast today to talk about the work that happens behind the scenes to make that moment possible is Christina Raburn, Executive Director for High School Education.

    Getting to Graduation

  3. May 13

    Voices from the School Board: Member Patti Rendon

    For this episode, we’re talking about something that plays a critical role in the success of our schools — advocacy. Behind every program, every opportunity, and every support system for students, there are leaders working to ensure schools have the resources they need to serve children well — not just at the local level, but at the state level too. Joining the podcast today is Patti Rendon, a member of our School Board and a strong supporter of public education who also serves as an advocate for our schools with legislators.

    Voices from the School Board: Member Patti Rendon

  4. May 8

    Voices from the School Board: School Board Chair Karen Perez

    For this episode, we are talking about something that impacts every classroom, every family, and every student — mental health and overall well-being. We know that for students to learn and thrive, they must first feel safe, supported, and connected. And increasingly, schools play a critical role in supporting not just academic success, but the whole child. Joining the conversation is Karen Perez, Chair of our School Board, who has been a strong advocate for student mental health and well-being.

    Voices from the School Board: School Board Chair Karen Perez

  5. May 6

    Christi Atkinson, 2026 Teacher of the Year!

    Each year, we recognize an educator who represents the very best of our profession — someone who inspires students, uplifts colleagues, and reminds us why teaching is one of the most meaningful callings there is. On this episode, we’re joined by our district Teacher of the Year, Christi Atkinson, who is here to share her journey, her passion for teaching, and what this recognition means — not just personally, but for her students and school community.

    Christi Atkinson, 2026 Teacher of the Year!

  6. May 1

    The Importance of Family and Community Engagement

    For this episode, we’re talking about something that makes a powerful difference in a child’s education — family and community engagement. We know that student success doesn’t happen in isolation. It takes strong schools, supportive families, and a connected community all working together. When those pieces align, students are more engaged, more confident, and more likely to thrive both in and out of the classroom. Joining the discussion is Dr. Felita Lewis, Executive Director of Family and Community Engagement.

    The Importance of Family and Community Engagement

  7. Apr 29

    Leading with Heart: A Principal's Perspective

    The role of a principal is complex. It requires vision, resilience, decision-making, and accountability. But the very best school leaders bring something more — they lead with heart. Joining the podcast for this episode is Latonya Anderson Rhodes, principal of Jennings Middle School. She’s here to share what it means to lead with compassion, high expectations, and an unwavering belief in students.

    Leading with Heart: A Principal's Perspective

  8. Apr 24

    Voices from the School Board: Henry "Shake" Washington

    This episode is all about history, not just what’s in textbooks, but what’s lived, remembered, and carried forward. We’re joined by Shake Washington, who brings a powerful, full-circle perspective shaped by decades in education as a student, educator, school leader, and now a School Board member. He shares his journey, reflects on pivotal moments in history, and explains how those experiences continue to shape his leadership today.

    Voices from the School Board: Henry "Shake" Washington
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About

More than headlines. More than statistics. This podcast from Hillsborough County Public Schools takes you inside the classrooms, hallways, and communities that shape education every day. In just 15 minutes per episode, hear real conversations with students, teachers, school leaders, families, and community partners—and see how innovation and impact unfold across HCPS. Because there’s always more to the story.

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