acceptance letterThe Charger Connect Program is a comprehensive, four-year support initiative for qualifying students and families new to independent schools — the only program of its kind in the Tampa Bay Area. 

In addition to the academic and college counseling resources that Shorecrest already offers all students, Charger Connect provides intentional, supplemental support including individualized mentorship, early college preparation, family partnership programming, and holistic well-being resources. 

Charger Connect supports Shorecrest students and families who identify with at least one of the following criteria:

- Students who are first-generation to college
- Students from families with high financial need
- Students with international backgrounds 

Charger Connect strengthens the foundation for student success through six strategic pillars:

college counseling meeting

  • Academic Support
  • Early College Counseling
  • Personal & Emotional Well-Being
  • Parent/Guardian Partnership
  • Creative Pursuits
  • Institutional Support

The program begins with ninth grade onboarding and continues through college matriculation, ensuring that every Charger has the tools, relationships and opportunities to reach their full potential.

Our goal is to ensure that all students, regardless of prior experience with independent schools, can thrive academically, socially and personally while at Shorecrest and beyond.

Our results speak for themselves -

Charger Connect students are thriving! GPAs are rising, and students in the program are accessing the full breadth of opportunities Shorecrest offers. They have been selected for all three Upper School leadership groups: Student Council, Student Ambassadors and Honor Council. Students have also competed in all three athletic seasons and earned awards in both performing and visual arts. 

High School Graduation Diploma

For more information about Charger Connect, please contact: 
Meghan SchneiderMeghan Schneider -
Senior Associate Director of College Counseling, Interim Co-Director of Diversity & Inclusion 
[email protected] 
727-346-1811

Important Links:

Shorecrest Admissions

Shorecrest College Counseling

Shorecrest Office of Diversity

Our first year was honestly lonely and a little confusing, so having a space like Charger Connect really meant a lot to me. Meghan was super helpful and made sure parents had a space to ask questions and receive positive feedback about our kids. She's also been very kind, quick to help me find solutions, and made things feel less overwhelming. My overall experience was good and it felt like a lifeline and kept me connected to the school community, especially when I don't always know where I fit in or who to go to. Next year I hope to still have this space and I’d love more chances to connect with other Charger Connect families, maybe through casual meetups or outings like the new family events over the summer.

Parent ‘27

Mrs. Schneider and the rest of the College Counseling team were amazing during my college process. I liked being able to just walk into the College Counseling Office and anyone would be willing to answer my questions immediately. Mrs. Schneider helped me a lot with structuring my supplemental college essays, along with helping me find good scholarships that help me out tremendously! They also constantly gave us reminders about due dates and important information, and I will always be thankful for that!

Jaylon Coad, Shorecrest Class of 2023, Academy Prep Class of 2019

Charger Connect has helped me feel more welcomed to Shorecrest by giving me a safe space to grow and meet faculty that I wouldn't have thought to talk to otherwise. For example, Mrs. Schneider set us Charger Connect kids up with Dr. Hart who helped us set up proper schedules, Ms. K. who gave us methods of relaxation, and Ms. Spencer, who further welcomed us to the campus.

Student ‘28

Charger Connect empowers its participants to reach their highest potential through knowing they have the unwavering support of their teachers, mentors and coaches every step of the way. It is a genuine partnership between the students and school staff that makes me proud to say I know, mentor, and teach many of its students.

- Al Irwin, Ninth Grade Dean, US Spanish Teacher

Charger Connect is an extra support system and a place where I belong. It allows me some structure even though I am on top of my grades, the regular check ins and progress reports from Mrs. Schneider are helpful. Because of Charger Connect I have a closer relationship with my College Counselor. I like the extra activities, especially Ms. K’s relaxation techniques. Charger Connect is a smaller committee within my school community. LOVE ITTTT!

Student ‘28

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