
Visually impaired student encourages Polk State peers to embrace opportunities

Andy Andrews says his proudest moment is returning to school at 52. He references lack of training and classes with peers half his age — common insecurities among older students — before sharing that his…

Polk State professor and alum achieves doctorate

Professor of Education Joanne Scharff serves as an inspiration to her students as not only a Polk State College alum but also a recent Southeastern University graduate who achieved her Doctorate of Education. As a…

Polk State Lakeland Gateway to College Collegiate High School provides students with support, flexibility to obtain higher education on own terms

There is a consensus among students at Polk State Lakeland Gateway to College Collegiate High School: classes are engaging, faculty and staff are supportive, schedules are flexible, and they don’t miss out on high school…

First group of 10th graders enjoying Polk State collegiate high school experience

For more than two decades, Polk State College has provided a unique experience through its collegiate high schools. Since the start of the semester, students at two collegiate high schools have been able to soak…

XploreFLEd: Access Florida’s first-class, affordable education system from anywhere at Polk State College

Students nationwide can now access Florida’s higher education system by enrolling in select online workforce education courses at Polk State College. This initiative provides out-of-state students with access to first-class programs that emphasize excellence and…

Priority registration starts November 11, open registration starts November 13 for the Spring 2025 Semester at Polk State College

Priority registration for the Spring 2025 Semester at Polk State College starts on November 11 for students who have completed at least 50% of their program requirements and students in the following programs: Honors, TRiO,…

Ghana to Gainesville: Polk State sets student on path to success

Theresa Aba Ackon’s venture to Polk State College spanned more than 5,500 miles. In less than two years on campus, however, Ackon has undoubtedly left her mark. A native of Ghana, Ackon is slated to…

Polk State alumnus named Polk County Teacher of the Year District 1 finalist

With more than a decade of experience working in education, Polk State College graduate Ronald Shell Jr. has had more than his fair share of individual recognition. What motivates him, however, is serving students and…

Polk State, Polk County Public Schools partnership prepares paraeducators to excel as teachers

The Polk State College Education Program has long prided itself on creating the next generation of exemplary teachers. Its newest program, however, targets those already working in local schools. In just its second year, the…

Polk State FallFest rescheduled for Nov. 2

Postponed by the threat of Hurricane Milton, Polk State College’s annual FallFest has been rescheduled for Nov. 2. As usual, the event takes place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the Winter Haven Campus.…