Military Families

Welcome Military Families!

Purple STar

Independence Academy is proud to support our nation’s heroes and their families. As a Purple Star candidate school, we are committed to helping your child transition smoothly into our community.

Military Point of Contact: 
Yalanda Breazeale, Retired Msgt.
YBreazeale@charterk12.com

Transition Planning
We understand that military families often face frequent relocations. Our goal is to make your transition as smooth as possible.

  • Enrollment & Registration: Contact our registrar at RDean@charterk12.com for assistance with enrollment and records transfer.
  • Advanced Enrollment Options: Military Preference available for all incoming military families. Please reach out for details.

Summer Contact: Mrs. Dean; RDean@charterk12.com

Academic Planning
We offer a variety of academic pathways to support your child’s success.

Student Progression Plan: Available through Hillsborough County Schools Student Resources | Hillsborough County Public Schools 

  • Advanced Programs: Honors and Advanced options. Application deadlines are posted on our academic calendar.
  • Grade Monitoring: Parents can access grades via the PowerSchool portal [link].

Educational Resources
We provide academic support and scholarship guidance tailored to military families.

  • Tutoring: After-school tutoring is available in ALL subjects.
  • Scholarships: Military students may qualify for Bright Futures and VA Chapter 35 benefits.

Student-Led Transition Program
Our Student Ambassador Program helps new military students feel welcome and connected.

  • Ambassadors meet with new students within two weeks of arrival.
  • Activities include campus tours, peer mentoring, and orientation sessions.

Program Coordinator: YBreazeale@charterk12.com

Exceptional Student Education (ESE) Services
We support students with IEPs and 504 plans during transitions.

Mental Health Resources
Military students may face unique emotional challenges. We’re here to help.

  • School Counselor: Hailey Mackin, HMackin@charterk12.com
  • Services: Confidential counseling, peer support, and referrals.
  • Additional Resources: MacDill AFB Family Support Center and online mental health services.

Upcoming Military Recognition Events
We honor military families through school-wide events:

  • R.E.D Friday - Last Friday of each month  FLYER
  • Veterans Day Celebration – November 10th
  • Month of the Military Child – April
  • Letters to Deployed Service Members – November and April
  • Purple-Up! Day – April 17th

Local Military Resources

  • MacDill AFB School Liaison Officer: (813) 828-0146
  • Youth Programs: (813) 828-7956
  • Family Support Center: (813) 828-0145
  • MacDill AFB Website: LinkClick.aspx

District & State Resources

Webpage Links