Saturday School boosts student achievement at Team Success
More than 300 elementary students at Team Success, a Cognia-accredited charter school in Manatee County, have participated in the school’s voluntary Saturday School program, receiving additional instruction designed to strengthen academic performance.
Saturday School offers students in grades 3-5 focused instruction in reading, writing, math and science while preparing them for the Florida Assessment of Student Thinking (FAST). The program reinforces concepts taught during the school week and introduces test-taking strategies in a focused, supportive environment.
Student participation reflected continued engagement during the spring 2026 sessions, which began Feb. 28. Overall Saturday School attendance increased from 70% to 72%, with 268 students participating in the final spring session. Third-grade attendance increased from 73% to nearly 80% over the course of the spring sessions.
As a result of the Saturday School program, Team Success’ FAST scores in grades 3-5 increased across all subjects – English, mathematics and science – when compared to the 2024-25 academic year.
“Students choosing to spend part of their Saturday at school says something powerful about how they view their education,” said Valeria Rivera, director of elementary at Team Success. “We believe every student is capable of academic success, regardless of the barriers they may face. Saturday School is one way we pair those high expectations with meaningful support, giving students additional opportunities to build confidence in their abilities and recognize their own potential.”
Participation in Saturday School is optional, with students and families committing additional time on weekends to academic instruction. Team Success teachers and staff also dedicate additional time to providing focused academic support.
Team Success primarily serves minority students and remains committed to closing achievement gaps for those who have historically been underserved. Through programs like Saturday School, the charter school provides additional academic support to help students reach their highest potential, regardless of background or circumstance. The Florida Department of Education has rated Team Success an A or B school every year since 2016.
Team Success is still accepting students in grades K-12. To begin the enrollment process, visit TeamSuccessSchools.org or call 941-714-7260 (K-5 campus) or 941-444-4333 (6-12 campus) to request an application.
About Team Success
Team Success: A School of Excellence is a highly rated charter school authorized by the School District of Manatee County to serve students in kindergarten through 12th grade. The school’s mission is to build an academic foundation that allows all students to achieve their highest potential, empower resilient individuals, celebrate academic successes and enable students to thrive in their future. Established in 1997 as the Police Athletic League Academy Charter School, Team Success is among the longest tenured charter schools in Florida and operates a K-5 campus in Bradenton along with its second 6-12 middle and high school campus located next to the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport. The school’s core values include community, integrity, success, growth, safety, collaboration, inspiration and reliance. For more information or to register, please visit TeamSuccessSchools.org.
