Military Families

Welcome Military Families!

Purple STar

Bell Creek Academy is proud to support our nation’s heroes and their families. As a Purple Star candidate school, we are committed to helping your child transition smoothly into our community.

Military Point of Contact:
Ms. Kelly Robbins; KRobbins@charterk12.com

 

Transition Planning
We understand that military families often face frequent relocations. Our goal is to make your transition as smooth as possible.

  • Enrollment & Registration: Contact our registrar, Ms. Denise Suttle, at DSuttle@charterk12.com for assistance with enrollment and records transfer.
  • Advanced Enrollment Options: Military Preference available for all incoming military families. Please reach out for details.
  • Summer Contact: Registrar Ms. Brooke Fitzgerald; BFitzgerald@charterk12.com

Academic Planning
We offer a variety of academic pathways to support your child’s success.

  • Graduation Requirements & Diploma Options: CLICK HERE for details.
  • Student Progression Plan: Available through Hillsborough County Schools Student Resources | Hillsborough County Public Schools 
    Advanced Programs: Honors, AP, and Dual Enrollment options. Application deadlines are posted on our academic calendar.
  • Grade Monitoring: Parents can access grades via the Focus portal [link] and PowerSchool.

Educational Resources
We provide academic support and scholarship guidance tailored to military families.

  • Tutoring: After-school tutoring is available in ALL subjects.
  • Scholarships: Military students may qualify for Bright Futures and VA Chapter 35 benefits.
  • Career & Technical Education (CTE): Explore hands-on learning opportunities in our CTE programs. (Business Academy, Law Academy, Marine Science Academy, Microsoft and Information Technology Certifications)

Student-Led Transition Program
Our Student Ambassador Program helps new military students feel welcome and connected.

  • Ambassadors meet with new students within two weeks of arrival.
  • Activities include campus tours, peer mentoring, and orientation sessions.
  • Program Coordinator: Ms. Kelly Robbins; KRobbins@charterk12.com

Exceptional Student Education (ESE) Services
We support students with IEPs and 504 plans during transitions.

Mental Health Resources
Military students may face unique emotional challenges. We’re here to help.

  • School Counselor: Dr. Adrienne Fortner; AFortner@charterk12.com
  • Services: Confidential counseling, peer support, and referrals.
  • Additional Resources: MacDill AFB Family Support Center and online mental health services.

Upcoming Military Recognition Events
We honor military families through school-wide events:

  • Veterans Day Celebration – November
  • Month of the Military Child – April
  • Letters to Deployed Service Members and Hospice Care
  • Purple-Up! Day – April

Local Military Resources

  • MacDill AFB School Liaison Officer: (813) 828-0146
  • Youth Programs: (813) 828-7956
  • Family Support Center: (813) 828-0145
  • MacDill AFB Website: LinkClick.aspx

District & State Resources

Webpage Links