Central High's GROWL event invites Class of 2030 families to learn programs

Multiple Hernando County school webpages, including Spring Hill Elementary, posted notices on Jan. 15 inviting families of the Class of 2030 to The GROWL 2026, Central High School’s open house and recruitment evening. The notices specifically addressed rising eighth graders at Challenger, Powell and West Hernando and encouraged families to attend to learn about academic programs, extracurricular pathways and enrollment options.

The event is designed to help students and parents explore what Central High will offer as families plan the transition into high school. Posts on school sites described the evening as an opportunity to meet staff and ask questions about programs and registration. For specifics on time, location and registration, the notices directed families to the Central High School website and the Hernando County Schools district calendar; one of the school pages cited was shes.hernandoschools.org.

This outreach matters locally because the eighth-to-ninth grade transition shapes students’ academic and social trajectories. Choosing a school and program affects access to advanced coursework, career and technical education, sports, clubs and school-based services such as counseling and health support. For many Hernando County families the evening could be the most direct way to compare pathways before enrollment decisions are finalized.

The way the district communicated the event also highlights equity and access issues. Posting on multiple school webpages can reach many families, but it may miss households with limited internet access, non-English speakers or those who rely on in-person outreach. Transportation, work schedules and childcare can also prevent attendance, potentially deepening gaps in who gets timely information about programs and services.

From a public health perspective, school transitions intersect with adolescent well-being. Familiarity with school counselors, nurse services and extracurricular options can ease stress and support mental and physical health. Ensuring that families know how to access special education services, language assistance and school-based health supports is part of keeping students healthy and academically on track.

Hernando County parents planning the transition should check the Central High site and the district calendar for event specifics and registration information. Families who cannot attend in person are encouraged to contact their current school counselors to discuss enrollment options, transportation and program placement so students do not miss important deadlines or supports.

The GROWL 2026 effort is an early step in a larger shift for the Class of 2030. How well the district follows up on outreach and addresses access barriers will shape whether every student can enroll in programs that match their needs and ambitions.