Middle School science takes place on the dock as students collect samples from the lake to test water quality. A third- and fourth-grade economics unit transforms the field into a start-up village where students execute business plans to sell goods and services. PreK3 students learn about creative expression by emulating master artists, studying dancers like Degas or painting the pond in the style of Monet.
For 50 years, Corbett Prep has lived its founders' dream to create an educational environment that would cultivate the gifts and talents of every student.
See how Corbett Prep teachers put the school's philosophy into action during a tour and Admissions Open House.
A private school for PreK3 through 8th grade, Corbett Prep will host Admissions Open Houses for prospective families at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 9; Tuesday, Feb. 5 and Tuesday, March 5.
Founders Marilyn Gatlin and Betty Anderson embraced a philosophy that happy students – respected as individuals and allowed to fulfill their needs to "play, investigate and be themselves" – were more open to learning than students who felt unhappy, tense and fearful at school.
Open House Information
Headmaster Dr. Joyce Burick Swarzman will start each Open House with an overview of Corbett Prep, including its concept-based curriculum and thriving fine arts, athletics and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art of Design and Math) programs. Corbett Prep also offers the International Baccalaureate Programme at all grade levels beginning at PreK3.
Highly trained teachers make up the heart of the Corbett Prep community. Dr. Swarzman will explain how and why Corbett Prep uses brain-based teaching strategies in classrooms and the commitment teachers make to professional development. Over five semesters, the school completed training in gifted education masters-level courses through a partnership grant with the University of South Florida College of Education. Corbett Prep also remains on the cutting edge of social and emotional learning, partnering with the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and piloting a new wellbeing curriculum that is expanding worldwide.
"Our vision is to make the learning process joyful and challenging as well as stimulating and productive," says Dr. Swarzman. "Our master teachers put children first, focusing on excellence and developing a positive approach to life and learning."
Middle School student ambassadors will lead Open House guests on a tour of the lakeside campus and answer questions from their perspectives. A light breakfast also will be served.
Corbett Preparatory School of IDS is located at 12015 Orange Grove Drive in North Tampa and provides bus transportation from South Tampa, New Tampa, Wesley Chapel, Lutz and Westchase. Families interested in learning more about Corbett Prep are welcome to call the Office of Admissions to schedule a personal tour at any time.
Contact the Office of Admissions to RSVP for an open house or request more information at info@corbettprep.com or (813) 961-3087.
