The High School Collab went back to college, this time taking their ambitions on the road! The journey began with a spirited stop at the University of Florida. Go Gators! Where students explored campus life and imagined themselves in blue and orange.

From there, the group headed to Atlanta for an inspiring tour of Georgia Tech and Clark Atlanta University, and Morris Brown College. They walked the historic quads, peeked inside cutting-edge classrooms, and experienced the Mercedes-Benz Stadium STEAM tour.

More than just a trip, this was a chance for our students to envision their futures, set their sights higher, and realize that with hard work and determination, these campuses, and countless others, could soon be called “home.”

This summer’s project-based learning gave students the freedom to dive deep into areas that inspired them, building practical skills and creative confidence.

• Content Crew – Learning social media management, podcasting, and content creation skills to share stories with the world.

• Science of Hair Braiding – Exploring the beauty of hair textures, styles, and cultural artistry.

• Rhythm & Sketch – Expressing emotions through the fusion of art and music.

• Art – Sparking innovation and imagination through hands-on creation.

• Book & Movie Critic – Developing unique perspectives and critical thinking through media analysis.

• Fit Squad – Promoting a healthy mind through active living, fitness, and nutrition.

• Hip Hop & Social Justice - Exploring social justice themes though hip-hop culture, music, art, and discussion.

• Food Science – Cooking up a healthy future, students mastered skills like reading food labels, pairing ingredients, and planning balanced dishes, gaining tools to nourish both body and mind.

• 4H: Life Outside - Exploring nature, BBQ university, Conservation Center field day, and life skills workshops.  

By blending exploration, education, and creativity, our summer programming empowered youth to discover their strengths, dream bigger, and see the world as a place full of possibilities.

...And Check This Out 

Powered by the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County, The Collab, and High Point Gamer, The Skills Center launched After Hours, a safe, engaging late-night space designed just for high school students.

From e-sports leagues and basketball to athletic training and mindset mastery, teens had endless opportunities to learn, play, and grow. With doors open until 10:30 PM, the nights were filled with fun, food, music, and connection, creating a vibrant atmosphere that kept youth engaged, inspired, and off the sidelines.

After Hours proved that when we meet teens where they are and provide spaces that excite them, they’ll show up ready to grow, compete, and lead.