FAQs
Q: Is bus transportation provided for students in your program?
The district will continue to provide busing for students attending magnet programs, unless they attend a magnet at their zoned school and live less than two miles from that school. However, beginning January 2024, revised ‘hub’ stops will take effect for magnet students who ride a bus between other schools and Howard Bishop. Please refer to the information provided on this link for further information or call Transportation at (352) 955-7602.
Q: Do students have to bring their own devices?
No, almost all core classrooms at Howard Bishop MS have laptop computer devices available for students to use ("1-to-1") during class. Teachers also make an effort to provide paper versions of any online assignments.
Q: What is The Academy for Advanced Studies and Technology at Howard Bishop Middle School?
A: The Academy for Advanced Studies and Technology is a magnet program at Howard Bishop Middle School, established in 1996. The Academy has a highly rigorous technology program that certifies students in Industry programs such as Microsoft and Adobe. The material learned in technology class is then used throughout the program’s other core classes. The rigor of courses in addition to the nurturing environment motivates students to achieve extraordinary heights.
Q: Do students have to be staffed into a "gifted" program to be eligible?
A: No, although preference will be given to students who are currently staffed as gifted. In the past few years, we have been given county permission to accept a limited number of students who are considered, “highly talented.” These students demonstrate exemplary work ethic and effort. They also excel academically and score at the highest levels on standardized tests.
Q: What classes do Academy students take?
A: Please see our Curriculum page.
Q: How much homework do Academy students have each day?
A: Homework varies by grade level and by teacher. The 6th grade tends to have the least amount of homework, whereas, the rigor of 8th grade tends to create the most amount of homework. Each team has different expectations, but most students do an hour or less of homework each day.
Q: Do students have time for extra-curricular activities?
A: Yes. We have club days incorporated into our daily schedule, which occur monthly. There are after school clubs and programs available as well, like After School Tutoring, Math Counts, or school sponsored sports (Volleyball, Basketball, Soccer, Football, and Cheer) . Outside of school we have several students who participate in a variety of extracurriculars, from go kart racing and judo to ballet and volleyball.
Q: Where do Academy graduates go to high school?
A: Academy graduates have been accepted into every high school in Alachua County. It does, of course, have to do with their personal preference in programs, as well as academics. Our graduates have reported being very well prepared for the rigorous high school programs, such as Eastside’s IB program and GHS’s Cambridge program. Many have gone on to the most prestigious colleges and universities in America.
Q: What are Howard Bishop's school hours?
A: The first bell rings at 9:20. The dismissal bell rings at 3:37.