TAMPA, Fla. — We’re happy to announce Mort Elementary, a community school in Hillsborough County, is our 10News School the Week powered by Duke Energy Florida.
Part of the reason why it’s considered a community school is because of the culture, the support and resources the school offers to the students and families. The school helps with housing, clothing and employment. They have a food pantry and clothing closet on site and a parent resource center where they offer classes like ESOL, finance, music and GED.
Every student and staff member is assigned a house when they start or register at the school. There are five houses, each with their own color, chant and mascot and are named for character traits. They include Determination, Respect, Loyalty, Courage and Perseverance.
The houses compete monthly to earn the most points, and the one that does is celebrated with a party. The house with the most points at the end of the year get to participate in a surprise activity. The house structure began five years ago and since its implementation, the administration witnessed an increase of school pride, teamwork, responsibility and a decrease in behavioral issue.
It’s not just a different approach to the school culture, but when you walk on campus, you’ll notice a ton of art and murals painted on the hallways and in the classrooms. With everything happening at this school, it’s easy to see why it’s considered the hub of the community and our 10News School of the Week powered by Duke Energy Florida.
If you have a recommendation for 10News School of the Week powered by Duke Energy Florida, email us the name of the school and tell us why it should be featured to 10schools@wtsp.com. We’re looking for elementary, middle and high schools. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Twitter to see more about the school throughout the week. If 10News is out at your school, make sure to show your spirit by snapping pictures and tag them with #SendTo10. That way we can find your photos and post them here!
