The Pasco-Hernando State College Center of Excellence (COE) is a community-based initiative with a mission to identify and promote academic excellence in disadvantaged minority students in third through twelfth grades. The Center of Excellence is funded by grants from the Florida Education Fund (FEF) and Pasco-Hernando State College. The Center performs all of the basic functions established by the FEF.

National Achievers Society

One of the premier programs of the Center of Excellence is the National Achievers Society (NAS) established with the purpose to encourage students to excel both academically and culturally.

Qualifications for National Achievers Society
  • Enrollment in school, K-12
  • Earn A’s and B’s with a least two A’s, for three consecutive grading periods
  • Student is sponsored by an adult in the state who agrees to serve as the “significant other” in the achiever’s life (the sponsorship fee may include the cost of the achievers uniform)
  • Submit a written report on completion of community service projects each year, and/or
  • Recognized for artistic and cultural talents, competing in and winning competitions at the regional or national level

National Believers Society

The National Believers Society (NBS) is another important program of the COE, which recognizes academic determination among students who are striving to one day become achievers.

Qualifications for National Believers Society
  • Enrollment in school, K-12
  • Earn A’s and B’s with a least two A’s, for three consecutive grading periods
  • Student is sponsored by an adult in the state who agrees to serve as the “significant other” in the believer’s life
  • Submit a written report on completion of community service projects each year, and/or
  • Recognized for artistic and cultural talents, competing in and winning competitions at the regional or national level

Activities

COE, NAS and NBS students participate in Super Saturdays that consist of academic and cultural enrichment activities.  Parent meetings are held during some Super Saturday classes. Some of the activities include, financial aid, admission and personal development workshops, math and communication enrichment, and preparation for tutoring, college residential visit, Summer Academy, college tours and field trips.

The most widely known activities for the Center of Excellence are the Brain Bowl competitions, which include history and culture, math and word wizard competitions.

Cost

The Center of Excellence is a free program to students who meet the qualification requirements. 

Note: National Achiever Society members may incur a one time fee for NAS uniform.

Become a Member

To become a member of the Center for Excellence, complete the College Reach-Out Program application.