Polk State Education grad finds ‘home’ where she interned at Chain of Lakes Elementary
Returning to school after nearly a decade with a family and a full-time job can be scary. Kimberly McBride added that the scariest part is wondering whether one will achieve their career goals after graduation.…
Sheriff’s deputy pursues dream of flying for law enforcement at Polk State Aerospace
Odalys Hurtado describes one of her biggest challenges as being a petite female in the law enforcement profession, but her ambition is greater than her stature, inspiring her to become a pilot so that she…
Polk State Education grad “finally passed” reading certification, becomes intensive reading teacher & role model for students
Lauren Lightsey teaches intensive reading at Lake Wales High School, where she can relate firsthand to her students because she, too, struggled with mastering the reading curriculum. She completed the Educator Preparation Institute at Polk…
Polk State Education grad returned to school after nearly 20 years
When Tracy Garcia graduated from high school in 2001, she attended a university but didn’t complete her degree because “life took over.” “I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do so I worked my way…
5 questions with Andrew Tew: Program Coordinator making immediate impact for Athletics
Program Coordinator for Athletics Andrew Tew joined Polk State College in March. During his brief time in the Athletics Department, Tew has played an instrumental role in modernizing the College’s athletics site, promoting the athletics…
Student goes from paralyzed to Polk State OTA & Orlando Health
Chase Roberts was told he would never walk again. Now, he’s not only on his own two feet — he is also helping others recover from traumatic injuries. Roberts, a student in Polk State College’s…
Educator Preparation Institute graduate: Polk State College is home
Vincent Miller traveled the world as a renowned vocalist, was named Teacher of the Year for Polk County Public Schools, achieved his doctorate in Education, and currently serves as Assistant Head of Schools for Academy…
Polk State Early Childhood Education student elevates career with Early Learning Coalition of Polk County
Cici Cantero has worked for the Early Learning Coalition of Polk County for seven years and recently received a promotion due in part to the knowledge she has gained in Polk State College’s Early Childhood…
Polk State Professor of Business brings research & worldly experience to the classroom
At Polk State College, students have access to professors with extensive professional experience, published research, and prestige among international industries. One of these faculty members is Professor of Business Paul Howe, who brings decades of…
Polk State grad driven to give family the American dream
Orlando Vera Perez’s journey as an undocumented immigrant in the United States has not been easy, especially as a student paying out-of-state tuition and having to overcome obstacles including the inability to legally drive or…