As opening day fast approaches, the Florida State University Collegiate Laboratory High School is still accepting applications from prospective students.

The first day of school will be Aug. 10, when the initial cohort of 125 ninth graders will descend upon the newly renovated facility at 2440 St. Andrews Blvd., next to Northstar Church. There is still time to apply and there are still vacancies, according to Director Debbi Whitaker. 

“We set aside (50 percent) of our openings for students from military families, but some who applied are relocating, and others haven’t moved here yet, so we’re able to open some spots,” Whitaker explained.

To apply, go to the website, https://tcs.fsu.edu/ and click on “Apply Now.”

School days will run from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. weekdays, giving students a full hour in each of their four core classes. The last two classes of the day will be for career exploration and electives. Students will be able to earn certifications and dual enrollment credits beginning their freshman year.

In addition, students can participate in extracurricular sports at the public school they would have attended if not going to Collegiate High. Before- and after-school programs will also be offered.

“We feel this is definitely a school that will create a community, a culture and a climate that will be a model for other schools,” Whitaker said. “We want students to have individualized plans, because every child has different needs, wants and expectations for high school.”

To that end, high school guidance counselors will work with college advisors to form a team with each student and their family. In addition, mentors and professionals will be brought in weekly to discuss careers and college programs.

“I like to tell families that we have kids coming to us from every public and charter middle school in Bay County,” said Director Debbi Whitaker. “I think that shows what a great, diverse student population we will have.”

As of July 1, construction work was still in progress on the 12,000-square-foot facility, which will include classrooms, offices and a multipurpose room/cafeteria. Work was on schedule for a July 31 completion.