St. Petersburg High School
General Information
Reviews
St. Petersburg High School is one of Florida’s oldest and most recognized public high schools, known for its strong academic traditions, diverse student body, and extensive extracurricular offerings. Reviews from students, parents, and alumni frequently emphasize the school’s long-standing reputation for academic rigor combined with a vibrant campus culture. Many families highlight the availability of advanced coursework, including honors and college-level classes, as a major strength that prepares students for postsecondary education. Students often describe an environment that balances high expectations with broad opportunities in athletics, arts, leadership, and service learning. Alumni feedback commonly reflects pride in the school’s history, community engagement, and emphasis on civic responsibility. Faculty dedication and accessibility are frequently praised, particularly for supporting students with varied academic goals, from college preparation to career and technical pathways. The school’s urban setting is often cited as an advantage, providing exposure to cultural, professional, and service-oriented experiences. Overall, reviews portray St. Petersburg High School as a comprehensive public institution that values academic excellence, inclusivity, and holistic student development.
Contact Information
- Phone Number: (727) 893-2246
- Main Address: 2501 5th Avenue North, St. Petersburg, Florida 33713, United States
- Email Address: sphs@pcsb.org
- Administrative Office: Main Campus Administration Building
- Counseling Office: Student Services Department
School Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1898 |
| School Type | Public High School |
| Grades Served | 9–12 |
| School District | Pinellas County Schools |
| Educational Focus | College and Career Readiness |
| School Motto | Pride, Tradition, Excellence |
Rankings
| Ranking Category | Position |
|---|---|
| State Public High School Standing | Recognized |
| College Readiness | Strong |
| Advanced Coursework Access | High |
| Community Reputation | Established |
St. Petersburg High School Academics
Faculties / Departments
- English Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- World Languages
- Fine Arts
- Performing Arts
- Career and Technical Education
- Physical Education and Health
- Exceptional Student Education
- Academic Counseling
St. Petersburg High School Courses Offered and Programs / Majors
- College Preparatory Program
- Honors Curriculum
- Advanced Placement Courses
- Career and Technical Pathways
- STEM-Focused Courses
- Visual and Performing Arts Programs
- Journalism and Media Studies
- Business and Entrepreneurship
Online Learning
Online learning at St. Petersburg High School supports flexible instruction and expanded access to coursework while maintaining alignment with district and state academic standards. Digital platforms are used to supplement in-person instruction, provide credit recovery options, and offer selected virtual courses for students seeking scheduling flexibility. Teachers integrate online resources for assignments, assessments, collaboration, and feedback, helping students develop digital literacy and independent learning skills. Virtual learning options are particularly beneficial for students balancing academic responsibilities with extracurricular commitments or personal circumstances. The school emphasizes responsible technology use, academic integrity, and consistent teacher-student engagement. Online learning is structured to complement classroom instruction rather than replace it, ensuring students continue to benefit from direct interaction, discussion-based learning, and faculty mentorship.
Degrees and Certifications
As a public high school, the institution awards a Florida Standard High School Diploma. Students may also earn industry-recognized certifications through approved career and technical education programs.
Summer School
Summer school programs provide credit recovery, academic enrichment, and acceleration opportunities designed to support timely graduation and academic readiness.
Average Test Scores
| Assessment | Average Score Range |
|---|---|
| State Reading Assessment | Proficient |
| State Mathematics Assessment | Proficient |
| SAT Composite | Competitive |
| ACT Composite | Competitive |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Retention rates reflect steady student progression, while graduation rates align with district and state performance benchmarks, demonstrating consistent academic outcomes.
St. Petersburg High School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Grade point averages and standardized test scores vary by program placement and are primarily used for advanced coursework eligibility rather than admission.
Acceptance Rate
| Category | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | Open Enrollment |
| Zoning-Based Admission | Primary |
| Program-Based Admission | Selective |
Application Requirements
Admission to St. Petersburg High School follows Pinellas County Schools enrollment policies and is primarily based on residential zoning. Families must submit proof of residency, prior academic records, immunization documentation, and completed enrollment forms. Students applying to specialized programs may be required to meet additional academic criteria, submit placement test results, or complete program-specific applications. The school evaluates student placement using prior coursework, standardized assessment results, and counselor recommendations to ensure appropriate academic alignment. Support services are available to assist families throughout the enrollment process, emphasizing transparency, compliance, and student readiness.
Enrollment Overview
Enrollment reflects a large and diverse student population, supporting comprehensive academic, athletic, and extracurricular programming.
Application Process
- Confirm school zoning eligibility
- Submit enrollment application
- Provide academic and residency documentation
- Complete course selection and counseling review
- Finalize schedule and orientation
Application Deadlines and Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Enrollment Opens | Spring |
| Program Applications | Spring–Summer |
| Academic Year Begins | August |
| Schedule Adjustments | Early Fall |
Essay Prompt
Essays are generally not required, except for select magnet or specialized programs.
St. Petersburg High School Scholarships
Scholarship guidance is provided through counseling services, including local, state, and national opportunities for graduating seniors.
St. Petersburg High School Tuition Fees and Costs
| Cost Category | Estimated Amount |
|---|---|
| Tuition | No Cost |
| Activity Fees | Varies |
| Instructional Materials | Minimal |
| Extracurricular Costs | Program-Based |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
The student population represents a broad mix of cultural, socioeconomic, and academic backgrounds reflective of the surrounding community.
Low-Income Students and Students with Disabilities
The school provides free and reduced lunch programs, special education services, academic accommodations, counseling, and support resources to ensure equitable access.
Student Body Overview
| Category | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | 1,800+ |
| Economically Disadvantaged | Significant |
| Students with Disabilities | Supported |
| Average Class Size | Moderate |
University Diversity
Diversity is a defining characteristic of St. Petersburg High School, shaping both academic and social experiences on campus. The school promotes inclusivity through culturally responsive teaching, student organizations, and community engagement initiatives. Students are encouraged to explore different perspectives through coursework, dialogue, and service learning opportunities. Faculty and staff actively support equitable practices, ensuring that all students feel represented and respected. Diversity enhances classroom discussion, fosters empathy, and prepares students for participation in a multicultural society. These values are reinforced through leadership programs, extracurricular activities, and partnerships that reflect the school’s commitment to inclusiveness and social awareness.
Average Earnings
Average earnings data is not directly applicable at the high school level. However, graduates typically pursue higher education, vocational training, or workforce entry aligned with their academic preparation. The school’s emphasis on college readiness, career exploration, and skill development supports long-term economic mobility. Alumni outcomes often include successful transitions to universities, community colleges, technical programs, and skilled professions, indicating positive long-term earning potential influenced by postsecondary pathways.
Graduation Rate
Graduation rates consistently meet or exceed district standards, reflecting effective academic support, counseling, and student engagement initiatives.
St. Petersburg High School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The school employs certified educators, counselors, administrators, and support staff dedicated to student achievement and well-being.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty members bring diverse academic backgrounds, instructional expertise, and professional experience, supporting rigorous and inclusive teaching practices.
St. Petersburg High School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life and Housing
Campus life includes athletics, arts, clubs, and student organizations that promote leadership and community involvement. Residential housing is not provided.
Transportation
Transportation services are coordinated through the school district, including bus routes and public transit accessibility.
Job Openings and Career Opportunities
Career opportunities include teaching, administrative, and support roles, with hiring conducted through district employment systems.