District to Not Renew Contract with Manatee Y Technological High School

BRADENTON – Following a thorough and deliberate examination of the issues involved and the options available, the School District of Manatee County will not renew the contract with Manatee Y Technological High School.

The approximate 200 students who previously attended the school will be successfully served by a variety of other educational options including returning to their zoned schools, attending a new program at Horizon’s Academy, entering adult GED programs or participating in Florida Virtual School’s online courses. Each student will receive personal counseling to determine their best placement and continued mentorship support. The decision is expected to save the school district in excess of $800,000 a year.

“After candid conversations with representatives from the Manatee YMCA this past Monday, we believe this course of action is right for the students involved, the school district as a whole and our community,” said Superintendent Rick Mills. “We have the necessary infrastructure, the school capacity and capability within our district to meet the needs of these students at a significant cost savings for the district.”

Dr. Diana Greene, Deputy Superintendent of Instructional Services, said the students who formerly attended Manatee Y Technological School will be informed of their options and assisted in making their transitions to other schools or programs.

“We have experience in this area because we handled a similar situation last year when Central High School was closed down for budgetary reasons,” Dr. Greene said. “We are committed to making sure all of our students have access to counseling, mentoring and all services the school district provides to be successful.”