Pasco-Hernando State College (“PHSC”) is one of only a handful of Florida College System institutions approved thus far by the Florida Department of Education to serve as a charter school authorizer. Through this authority, the College will expand high-quality educational opportunities while maintaining strong standards for accountability and student success.
In that capacity, the PHSC District Board of Trustees approved the application and recommendation of Dayspring Early College Academy as a proposed public charter school during its March 2, 2026, regular board meeting. The charter school is proposed to be operational and open to students at the start of the Fall 2026 academic year, with an initial 125 seats available.
Dayspring Early College Academy is a proposed public charter school in Pasco County designed as a content-rich, student-centered Early College model that extends the existing high-performing Dayspring Academy for Education and the Arts. The school aims to expand access to rigorous, college-connected opportunities by integrating strong foundational academics with a focus on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics) and intentional character development.
“We are honored to partner with Pasco-Hernando State College to bring this Early College model to our community,” said Suzanne Legg, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of Dayspring Academy. “Together, we are expanding access to high-quality learning experiences that empower students to earn college credit, engage deeply in STEAM fields, and build the confidence needed to excel in an ever changing world.” said Suzanne Legg, Ph.D., chief executive officer of Dayspring Academy.
The mission of Dayspring Early College Academy is to prepare students, from grades 9 to 12, for post-secondary school, college and the workforce by delivering a world-class education through the arts in a collaborative environment fueled by a passion for learning.
“As a board, we are committed to supporting initiatives that expand educational access and drive student achievement,” said Nicole Newlon, J.D., chair of the PHSC District Board of Trustees. “The launch of Dayspring Early College Academy aligns with our mission and will provide families with a meaningful new option for high quality, college connected learning.”
The academy’s curriculum is rooted in the Core Knowledge Sequence, weaving technology and the arts into instruction across English, reading, mathematics, science and social studies. Teachers will implement research-based practices, including explicit instruction, inquiry-driven and project-based learning, as well as collaborative, interdisciplinary strategies. A Multi-Tiered System of Supports ensures targeted instruction to meet the needs of every student, while a 1-to-1 technology initiative strengthens digital engagement and learning. Together, these elements cultivate both academic growth and the skills and dispositions students need to make informed, independent decisions.
“PHSC is proud to support the launch of Dayspring Early College Academy and the expanded opportunities it will bring to students and families in Pasco County,” said Eric Hall, Ed.D., PHSC president. “This partnership reflects our shared commitment to academic excellence, innovation and access. By creating a pathway for students to earn college credit while completing high school, we are opening doors to greater opportunity, strengthening college readiness and empowering students to take confident steps toward their future.”
Learn more about PHSC’s accelerated learning programs at accelerated.phsc.edu.