During the summer of 2009, Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) partnered with CDC to provide summer program activities, designed to break negative cycles and strengthen leadership skills and opportunities, for 17 high school students who reside in East Tampa.

Based on evaluation data gathered during the 2009/2010 school year, 12 of the students completed Individual Goal and Achievement Plans, assumed leadership roles at their school and/or had the opportunity to participate in community service events, as well as participated in "Teens Empowered and Engaged in New Success" (TEENS) Leadership Club and/or encouraged to join high school service clubs. 100% of the students completing the program also showed average or above average grade point averages, as indicated by a 90-day follow-up.

This contract provides the funds necessary to implement a summer program focused on improving self-esteem, communication, time management, goal setting, and college/career guidance for 20 preselected youth transitioning from Ferrell Middle School to Middleton High School, both Title I schools in East Tampa. Specifically, the “Youth Leadership Skills Development Training” includes leadership development training, community service projects, college/ technical school tours, and workshops that will provide guidance and counseling to help students set career goals and to remind them of their social and academic potential. Parents and students will have the opportunity to tour Middleton High School and learn more about the expectations and requirements of students entering 9th grade.