High School Equivalency Program
The University of South Florida (USF) High School Equivalency Program (HEP), which began in 1987, serves approximately seventy five students per year. All of the students who attend HEP are from families whose primary source of income is migrant and seasonal farmwork. Approximately 89 percent of HEP students are from Hispanic ethnic backgrounds, 7 percent are African American, 3 percent are White and 1 percent are of Asian descent. HEP students generally range in age from 17-21. They are recruited to the University of South Florida through the efforts of an extensive recruitment network which includes the State Departments of Education and Labor, local school districts and community agencies.
HEP students have dropped out of high school because of family mobility and a need to work to help their families survive. Although these students are of average and above average ability, their academic records are often inconsistent and poor, reflecting frequent school interruptions. Despite their disappointing educational histories, HEP students have a strong desire to succeed. Once enrolled in HEP, these individuals quickly become part of the university community and demonstrate extraordinary success.
Center for Migrant Education Home
Contact Information (HEP)
DIRECTOR
(813) 974-1387
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR
(813) 974-0915
Fax
(813) 974-5542
MAILING ADDRESS
Special Education
University of South Florida
4202 E. Fowler Avenue, EDU 162
Tampa, FL 33620-5650