Brooks Debartolo Collegiate High School

Posted: December 5, 2025

this school Is horrible teachers dont care please send your kid to a better school

Posted: December 5, 2025

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Posted: July 1, 2022

My child currently attends Brooks DeBartolo and we are very happy. The teachers are caring, the school leaders are concerned with student success and the experience they receive while in high school. The test scores are still some of the best in our county and state. The previous review mentioning sex in the stairwells is not what my child has ever seen or heard, nor what any of my friends' children have ever seen or heard. This past school year there was one - yes, count it, ONE! - fight and it was out in the parking lot and had two parents in it. Those kids were expelled. This is quite possibly one of the safest high schools in Hillsborough County! My other child attended our neighborhood school and came home weekly with reports of fights. So, yes, high schools have fights, but Brooks DeBartolo has extremely few. Also, every high school unfortunately has teenagers that experiment with drugs. Any parent who doesn't accept this are doing their child a disservice by not preparing them to deal with bad things in the world. That being sad, my student has never seen drugs or been approached about drugs or heard of others being approached at BDCHS.

What IS happening at Brooks DeBartolo is a "WORLD CLASS" robotics program - our team just came home from placing SECOND IN THE WORLD competition! The school is also developing an internship program with a local business group dedicated to mentoring students. The computer technology classes and certifications continue to grow. Our sports programs continue to grow. Our clubs and school organizations continue to grow. Two of our students from our Health Occupations Student Association group placed 3rd and 5th in competition at the state conference this spring. US News just ranked BDCHS as the 4th best public high school in Hillsborough County. This summer the school is doing a major update and replacement of their technology/computer infrastructure. And so much more!!

Yes, the school has gone through staffing and admin changes as so many are these days. The new teachers and admin are navigating the water quite well: maintaining the schools learning environment and close sense of community. It is one of the best public schools in Hillsborough County and is a great learning environment for many students - including those who thrive in smaller settings, those who want opportunities that larger schools can't always facilitate, and those who enjoy a supportive and caring atmosphere. I highly recommend BDCHS!

Posted: July 1, 2022

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Posted: May 24, 2022

Hello, former student here (graduated in 2022). I have read some of the negative reviews. And while I can say that the school isn’t what it used to be, it is still a great place. A large complaint was the administration. And while yes, we did struggle with the new rules and people in charge, it also helped bring together students and faculty members.

I attended Brooks all 4 years and I can say for certain that everyone had a teacher they trusted. Our teachers love us. With us, they criticized the administration - but they also knew that that’s how life works. I understand that, as parents, you want what’s best for your child(ren), and that the offered studies and athletics are important; but what’s most important, I think, is a sense of community. Brooks is just like any other high school in Tampa. We have our problems, our struggles. But we also have a loving community.

As an LGBT student, I found my community. I have seen my peers come into their own at this school, aided by caring faculty and students. The recent death our school was tragic. He was a loving kid who made total strangers cry at the news. But this isn’t unique to Brooks. Unfortunately, this happens in many areas, and to criticize one institution and blame them for this death is not only disrespectful, but wrong. While I cannot say that Jacob wasn’t bullied, I can say for certain that he had loving friends who didn’t care how he identified. So many kids at Brooks identified as LGBT just as he did.

I guess, what I’m trying to say is that, Brooks is just another high school in Florida. We have our problems. But we also have our successes. The people at Brooks are good. And the vaping and drugs? Well, welcome to high school in 2022 across the nation. This generation is so much different than yours, but coping mechanisms stay the same. You can’t judge a person's actions without context.

Brooks is so incredibly boring for all the right reasons. And it would be a shame for you to dismiss this school because of reasons from people who didn’t go there 5 days a weeks for 8 hours a day.

Thank you.
(Also please join the softball team :))

Posted: May 24, 2022

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Posted: May 23, 2022

We had a similar experience as the parent below and pulled our son after the first semester of his sophomore year and sent him to our local school. Teachers consistently handed out inflated grades despite the students not learning the material. Our son received an A in chemistry but didn’t have a teacher. Algebra II was a similar story. After switching schools, we realized just how far behind he was and required weekly tutoring to catch up. I relayed my concerns to the staff and never received a reply. BDCHS was seemingly far less concerned with what the kids learned and much more concerned with social issues and inflated grades. This is not the school we thought it would be or was in previous years. It is an unfortunate reality. Look elsewhere and save yourself the disappointment.

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Posted: May 10, 2022

Future parents and HS students, if you have other HS offers or opportunities, take it. You do not want to come to Brooks De Bartolo Collegiate HS.

I am a parent at BDCHS and it sadens me to say that our school is no longer what it used to be. Under the prior Principal our school, was organized, fair, safe, encouraging, academically rigorous, inviting and much, much more.

Within the past 2 years we have had a new principal, change or the majority of the staff and many new board members. Today our school is a joke. There are kids having sex under stairwells and in bathrooms, using and selling drugs, skipping is the norm with no concequences, the staff is unfair and unprepared to teach our students, they allow parents to rule the school, fights and so much more.

In the last week, the schools Varsity Volleyball coach was fired because a parent also a staff member wanted his child to play for a different coach and because another parent was upset that her child did not get enough playing time. Honor societies and program selections have become a popularity contest, choosing failing students and leaving the true hardworking leaders out. And finally there are many changes comming into the curriculum aspect which will NOT benefit students aspiring attending college. And this is only the things I know, there are many other crazy things going on at the school thats affecting students emotional and psychologicaly such as bullying. Last week we lost a very loving student who took his own life, now we are hearing how he was made fun of and bullied because he was gay. Where was the staff? The supervision? The leadership? The situation is very sad.

BROOKS DE BARTOLO HS os no longer a safe and good environment for our students. It is for these reason that my children will not return to the school.

Now you know some of what's going on at the school so that you can make your decicion. Good luck!

Posted: May 10, 2022

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Posted: April 12, 2019

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Posted: April 12, 2019

Idiots running this school. Wouldn't let me pick up my sister during a medical emergency

Posted: April 12, 2019

I've never dealt with more incompetent people in my life

Posted: August 30, 2017

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Posted: August 30, 2017

I am VERY PLEASED with BDCHS, truly THANKFUL that my daughter is in such a positive learning space. She told me that she really believes her teachers care for her.

Posted: February 16, 2015

The capital campaign for the athletic complex in no way impacts teacher salary increases. Using funds raised through charitable contributions for salaries is not permissible nor a fiscally sound practice. BDCHS prides itself on retaining effective, caring educators by offering competitive salaries and a positive work environment. We are committed to excellence in educational practices from instructional implementation to policy. We are proud of our partnerships with local businesses and organizations that enable us to provide unique, engaging learning opportunities for all students. We hope that all members of our school community support our educational program and practices. Respectfully, it appears you may have misconceptions that are potentially rooted in frustrations. BDCHS is happy to address your concerns directly and clarify any misunderstandings and counter false accusations posted in the public forum. We invite you to contact the school directly to discuss your concerns. We hope that you have found this information helpful in clearing up misconceptions that may be the result of frustrations or misunderstandings of the lottery procedure as outlined in FL 1002.33.

Posted: February 12, 2015

The problem I have with this school is its lottery process. When a third of the available open seats for 9th grade and a few spaces in concurrent grades are automatically given to Board Members, Teachers, and staff children the odds are particularly unfair. Charter schools are supposed to be non-selective, except when they are not. Charter schools receive public tax dollars and at times private donations. The seats at Brooks are given to this selective group I m assuming to retain a quality workforce at the school. Why is my public money going to helping this charter school retain its workforce? Instead of building a new stadium, why not give your teachers an increase in salary? If I had a choice, I would want my public dollars going towards a lottery system that is fair to all applicants. Shame on you Brooks.

Posted: November 29, 2014

Expectation: Fully participating and focused students Reality: Most students are honestly not enjoying the experience. It is noticeable that some students are in fact unfocused and problematic. Expectation: Caring and nice students Reality: If you are not "cool" or appreciated you quickly are outcast into independence with little to no friends. And it's not just me, many people are so lost they have no social group(which BDCHS boasts of not having). Expectation: Caring staff that will help your child achieve excellency and work with them one on one. Reality: "Caring staff" means after school tutoring that is always jam packed with kids. Which in the long run is a even more harsh than the average learning environment. Tutoring will not fix your grade but bring you anxiety and frustration without any extra credit. Many teachers are extremely and unnecessarily strict and should apply for military education rather than teaching "college prep". This the "no late work policy" combined with the limited extra credit makes any flaw expansively noticeable. Honestly you are better off going to a public high school and taking advanced or AP courses .

Posted: June 21, 2014

My son has just finished 9th grade. I was skeptical about the school at the beginning(coming from private schools) ect... But I am pleased to say, that Brooks has exceeded my expectations. This is literally a private school w/out the tuition. The academics are challenging, the behavior system is disciplined and respectful, and the teachers and students have fun in the process. I couldn't ask for a better high school!!!!!!

Posted: June 8, 2014

My daughter hated reading when she started at Brooks, today she purchased her third novel to read in the past few weeks with her own money! She also received a 4 on her reading FCAT, the teachers are awesome and we both love the school!

Posted: May 13, 2014

I feel comfortable to send my kids to BDCH because faculty communicate with parents very well.

Posted: May 11, 2014

Education is one of the most important things I can provide for my children. Brooks Debartolo has provided a rigorous education program that is fostered in a mall environment with loving teachers and staff. My children are recognized as individuals and have been ale yo flourish in the environment.

Posted: May 6, 2014

Brooks Debartolo provides above average education in a structured, disciplined environment. Our daughter has thrived and her grades have improved dramatically during her time at Brooks Debartolo. Most of her teachers offer challenging schoolwork and homework. Her opportunities in her college search are a direct result of the education she is receiving at Brooks Debartolo.

Posted: May 4, 2014

Brooks Debartolo Collegate High School is an amazing school in many ways. It provides our children with a quality education that far exceeds other schools in our area. The teachers are caring, gifted and use evidenced based practices in their instruction. We are also thrilled with the opportunity of dual enrollment with our local college. This is an opportunity for our children's future like no other! And the principal and admin really cares about the children!

Posted: April 29, 2014

Having attended a, now 100+ year old, prestigious, private prep high school in Tampa 40 years ago I must say that Brooks Debartolo Collegiate High School is on par with that school in the teaching staff, the administration, as well as all the supporting staff. I give this to school 5 stars in all areas. My daughter is challenged here for her college preparedness and we plan to send our two younger daughters here also.

Posted: April 29, 2014

This is the first year that my daughter has been at BDCHS, the academic curriculum went above our own expectations; the school has a great security system and also the student enviroment is very healthy. Also, the school gives the best level of collegiate education. We as parents are very please to have our daughter at BDCHS.

Posted: April 29, 2014

This is my first year at Brooks and it has been a great eperience. I like how the teachers are involve in us, the students. The academics at my school are great that we are able to be one of the "A" rated schools in Hillsborough County. Besides the academics it would be good to have a good sports field to practice baseball, soccer, softball, and other sports. I look foward to my last two years at Brooks.

Posted: April 29, 2014

Challenging classes, a smaller environment than our local high school, a staff that knows your son/daughter's name, and they are ALWAYS there for extra help and tutoring. We are so happy and proud to be a part of the Brooks DeBartolo Collegiate High School family!

Posted: April 29, 2014

A great school. The approach to learning is focused and the new principal is working out just fine. There are some problem students, and I don't understand why they are kept in the school since there is a waiting list for students that would love to go here.

Posted: April 29, 2014

Brooks Debartolo is a os excelente School My son is currently a sophomore and he is not only doing dual enrollment and ap classes at this pace he can graduate early. The staff is very supportive and work with each student to make sure they are on the correct path to graduation and for college.

Posted: April 29, 2014

Dual Enrollment allows students to take actual college classes with college credit. It is a small charter school focused on academics. My daughter is in 9th grade and loves the school environment. It is not like a bigger public school where students are part of the general population.

Posted: April 29, 2014

Our son entered BDCHS this year as a freshman. This is an awesome school. It has a rigorous academic program with fantastic supportive and accessible teachers and staff. Its smallness (approx 400 students) allows for individual attention and a real sense of community. And, while it may not have all of the sports that other schools have, it does have a bowling team!

Posted: April 28, 2014

I am writing this review as a proud parent at BDCHS. I am pleased with the education my daughter is receiving at BDCHS. My daughter has attended this school since 9th grade, she is currently 10th grade. She has had great success with her teachers they enjoy teaching at the school, she has exceledl in her studies. She loves the small class size, the great principal (Ms. Kristine Bennett) and the many new friends she has made. She is being prepared for college. Kudos to the teaching staff and administration!!! Recommend this Great High School.

Posted: April 28, 2014

BDCHS was a blessing when we didn't want to send our son to the local high school and couldn't afford private school. They provide a private school education for free! The teachers are knowledgeable and caring. Even though the school has grown greatly in the past two years they still maintain control and familiarity with the parents and students. It's a great school. I hope to send my other children there too.

Posted: April 28, 2014

Very good school with great vision. Students are motivated to do the best they can and they are encouraged to reach for their goals.

Posted: April 28, 2014

Brooks Debartolo is a great charter school. Principal Bennett is a natural leader and not only inspires her students, but also her teachers and staff. There is a focus on academic success with high expectations. My child has excelled at BDCHS. She respects her teachers and likes the small environment. Every teacher and administrator strives to know each student by name.

Posted: April 28, 2014

BDCHS has been a great school for my daughter who is just finishing 10th grade. She has been challenged by taking AP courses and whenever she has struggled academically there is always an opportunity to stay after school for tutoring. I have been especially impressed by Mr. Fernandez offering Biology EOC study sessions on Saturdays and by Mrs. Bennett's immediate response to any concerns we have had.

Posted: April 28, 2014

This school is a great alternative to public high school without the cost of a private school. It is smaller than the local high schools, but still big enough to have a decent offering of classes and extra curricular activities. There is a strong focus on academics and help is always available for those in need. My daughter really likes the smaller setting of this school and it is definitely challenging her. She loves most of her teachers and her only only complaint is that she has to wear uniforms (which I prefer).

Posted: April 28, 2014

My daughter has attended this school ever since we withdrew her from the local public high school (after she witnessed regular arrests and drug use in hallways). She has blossomed at BDCHS, loves her teachers, and is making wonderful grades. It has been a truly positive experience for her and we are grateful for the opportunity the school has provided for her and other students who wouldn't otherwise be able to afford a private school-like education.

Posted: April 28, 2014

It is an honor and privilege for my 9th grader to attend Brooks. The academic standards are well above average and the educators are readily available to help each and every student succeed. Principal Bennett and other executive staff and faculty provide excellent direction and leadership for both parents and students. I can only see this school excelling to become one of the greatest in Florida, not just Hillsborough County. I look forward to our son being there the next 3 years!

Posted: April 25, 2014

I have been a student at Brooks-DeBartolo for three years now, and I absolutely love it! I feel very comfortable in an environment where teachers and administrators deeply care about the students and their success. I am very thankful that we have such a wonderful principal, Ms. Bennett. She has really transformed Brooks-DeBartolo into one of the best high schools in Florida!

Posted: April 21, 2014

This is a school whose focus is the success of its students. They set the academic bar high, but work to help every student achieve. The encourage AP courses & dual enrollment. I also like that students are more than a number. Faculty take genuine interest in the success of there students.

Posted: April 21, 2014

My school is Brooks DeBartolo Collegiate High School. I have the opportunity to volunteer each week at the school in the cafeteria. I observe the students/teachers and how they relate to each other. In three years I have not heard or seen a negative behavior. Students and teachers appear to have great respect and affection for each other. Not a fight. Not a bad word. Just smiles, hugs, jokes and respect. Compared to my experiences in the public schools, BDCHS is huge improvement. I was so pleasantly surprised! However they accomplish it, it proves discipline with respect can work. These kids are good and still having fun! A wonderful environment for our young people. Thank you BDCHS!

Posted: November 10, 2013

As the parent of a senior, I can say this is a great school, no student "falls through the cracks" here!

Posted: November 2, 2013

This is honestly my dream school. I was worried about bullying, but this school accepted me and 95 percent of the kids that go there are amazing. The course work is challenging in a good way and I've seen more dedicated teachers. I have so much fun there, the school gives off such a positive vibe.

Posted: October 25, 2013

Brooks DeBartolo CHS is just the environment I was looking for when my twin boys were ready for High school. They attended private christian schools all the way through 8th grade. Brooks afforded them a smaller class setting and a safer environment as they merged into public school education. We also were excited about the prospects of dual enrollment. So far we are pleased with the staff and faculty and look forward to 4 great years.

Posted: August 26, 2013

My school is Brooks DeBartolo H.S., this school is everything and some in regards to my child's education and growth! We are happy and committed to build on the future of this school!

Posted: August 21, 2013

Hello, My son recently graduated and now my Daughter Chelsea is a senior there. Both of my children have done very well due to the guideance and overall learning experience and the teachers have been great so has the leadership. I would and have suggested other parents to have their chilren attend Brooks Debartolo High School. Thanks; G.Drake Pelham

Posted: August 1, 2013

Our son just graduated from this excellent school with enough credits for his associate degree (plus exploring three different majors). The opportunity for dual enrollment, for students who are ready for the challenge. Our daughter, currently attending BDCHS, plans to complete her associate degree concurrently with her high school diploma, and has found a great circle of supportive friends. Definitely the best-kept secret high school in Tampa! The faculty and staff have been so supportive, finding and communicating opportunities for leadership training, career events in my students area of interests, and scholarships.

Posted: October 27, 2012

My daughter is in her 9th grade year at the school. The curriculum is rigorous and challenging. As a parent, I like the uniform policy, the communication between the parents and teachers and the willingness of the Administration to listen to parent concerns. Beautiful facility. I feel so lucky to have my child attending such a quality school.