Head of School Letter
From the Desk of Lincoln J. Tamayo
"Academy Prep Center of Tampa is committed to providing an outstanding, transformative education that fosters creativity, develops critical thinking, and builds self-confidence. We do not waiver from our mission to inspire and empower students qualifying for need-based scholarships to become future community leaders through a rigorous middle school program coupled with ongoing graduate support."
Our innovative approach is designed to meet the needs of our students in an ever-changing world, continually challenging and empowering them to thrive.
Our Centers of Excellence in Art, Athletics, Chess, and Music offer opportunities for students to expand their intellectual and social horizons. These programs nurture creativity, discipline, teamwork, and self-assurance—skills that serve them both in and out of school. Additionally, our social and emotional learning and life skills courses provide students with the tools to become well-rounded individuals, prepared for life’s challenges.
Our demanding math curriculum is tailored to accommodate students at all levels, from those excelling in the subject to those needing additional support. The program includes an option to complete Geometry by eighth grade, with Algebra for the rest of the eighth grade class, ensuring our students are well-prepared for the nation's top high schools and universities.
Our Graduate Support Program is a vital component of our success. It provides essential guidance and removes barriers as students transition from our campus to high school, college, and beyond, ensuring their continued growth and achievement.
To date, Academy Prep has graduated 465 students, with 90% of this year's high school graduates entering college and the military! Our attendance rate in 2024-25 was 96.3%, surpassing all middle school attendance rates for Hillsborough County public schools; yes, motivated and eager middle schoolers don’t mind attending a school that challenges them up to 11 hours a day, up to 6 days a week, 11 months of the year!
Thank you for believing in the power of education, and especially for believing in our students. As we look to the future, we steadfastly honor our mission to inspire and empower our youth to become leaders in our society who will shape and strengthen our communities for years to come.
Best always,
Lincoln J. Tamayo, Head of School