A Little History...
The Florida School was established and first opened its doors in May of 1993. Officially, the first School Manager was FPP Board Member Robin Phillips; however, it was another FPP Board Member, Stewart Powers, who was the driving force behind the School's concept and is now recognized as the Florida School's Manager for the first two years. Stewart's term as School Manager was followed by Peggy McAteer (1 year), Nancy Soles (2 years), Robin Phillips (4 years), and now rests in the capable hands of Marybeth Jackson-Hamberger (now in her 8th year).

The School has always been held on campus at the Daytona Beach Community College in Daytona, Florida. Patrick Van Dusen, head of the Photography Department at DBCC, has always been a great supporter of the FPP and has graciously provided the perfect venue for the Florida School.

The success of the Florida School can be measured by its popularity within the membership as well as its out-of-state attendees. The number of classes have grown and attendance at the 2008 Florida School was about 240.

The Format...
It's this simple. The Florida School takes place once a year for one week only (Sunday, May 31 - Thursday, June 4, 2009). You sign up for one class by one instructor. For 5 days in May you'll be treated to an intense learning opportunity being taught by one of the industry's most knowledgeable photographers. Not only do you gain the information necessary to become a better photographer, you gain a whole new circle of friends who share the same aspirations and goals as yourself. This is what makes the Florida School so special.

Orientation this year will take place at Daytona Beach Community College instead of at The Plaza Resort & Spa.

PPA Merits...
Since The Florida School is a PPA Affiliate School, all attendees who are PPA members will receive 2 PPA Education Merits upon completion of their class.

Cars & Car Pooling...
Public transportation to the school is not available. Florida students with automobiles: we have several out-of-state students; please make sure to meet them and offer them rides to the school and back to the hotel each day.

Class Attendance...
Your paid registration is for the class that you registered for. registrations are not transferable. If you have extenuating circumstances concerning a course change during the school week, please speak directly with the School Manager Marybeth Hamberger. If you need to leave mid-week for any reason, please inform Marybeth.

Class Breaks...
The DBCC cafeteria in Building #7 is available to our students. Hours are 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM, and 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM. There are also vending machines in Building 12. Breaks at 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM are optional with each instructor.

Lunch...
Lunch is from 1:00 to 2:15 PM. You're welcome to use the DBCC cafeteria if you'd like. Fortunately, DBCC is located only minutes from several very good and very fast restaurants on International Speedway Dr.. Please be prompt so that classes can begin again at 2:15.

Dinner Tickets...
Each student (with the exception of DBCC students) receives one dinner ticket for each dinner provided (Sunday, Monday, and Wednesday). You must present your ticket to dine. Extra tickets may be purchased for only $30 at the registration desk on Sunday.

Group Photo...
The group photo is a gift to you from the FPP and its sponsors. You will be notified as to the day and time the photograph will be taken.

Location Etiquette...
Please display your best behavior on the DBCC campus or at any off-campus location. DBCC is a smoke free environment. Please walk on the paths provided. We are guests and we hope to be invited back.

Models...
Our models are volunteers. They may ask you to send them several prints, as this is their only compensation. Please follow through if you promise prints!

Raffle...
Our sponsors have donated some wonderful items. Make sure you get plenty of raffle tickets. They're available for only $1 each or 6 for $5. The drawing will be held at the Celebration Dinner on Wednesday night.

School Evaluation...
Each student will have an opportunity to fill out a school and class evaluation. Let us know your thoughts, both positive and negative. We are always seeking to improve The Florida School experience.

Southeast Museum of Photography...
Located in Building 37 at DBCC is the Southeast Museum of Photography. Do yourself a favor and go exploring this fine museum. Open Sunday from 1:00 to 4:00 PM, Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM and Tuesday evening from 5:00 to 7:00 PM.

Florida School Memorabilia...
The Florida School typically has available for purchase several items sporting The Florida School or FPP logo. These items will be sold at the registration desk during Sunday registration and at the evening events. Make all checks out to the FPP. Visa/Mastercard are also accepted. Items for 2008 may include Golf Shirts, Tee Shirts, Coffee Mugs, Hats, Jackets and Umbrellas.