Hillsborough County wants to help parents improve their skills in dealing with difficult family issues by offering several STEP classes throughout the year at various locations throughout the area. Systematic Training for Effective Parenting (STEP) is taught nationally to parents of children of all ages. It emphasizes improving communication skills, understanding children's behavior, and discipline that make sense, among other topics. The $36 registration fee is due at the door on the first day of class. There is no reduction in fees or fee waivers. These classes fulfill court-ordered parenting class requirements.

The Parents Handbook by Dinkmeyer & McKay is the book required for the class and can be purchased online at STEPpublishers.com or by calling 1-800-720-1286. The book is also available for $14.90 at Chamberlain High School, and can be purchased the first night of class or Monday through Thursday, from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.; or at Brandon High School, in the school office the first night of class or Monday through Thursday, 1 - 9 p.m.

For more information or to pre-register call 813-272-5900. To register for classes in Spanish and for more information about the Spanish program, call France Cote, Hispanic Services Council, at 813-936-7700.

Schedule of classes

• Nov. 2 - 10
  Brandon High School, 1101 Victoria St., Brandon
  Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday, 6-9:10 p.m. for the 1st Week
  Monday & Tuesday, 6-9:10 p.m. for the 2nd Week
  Teacher: Dawn Joost



• Nov. 3 - 24
  Chamberlain High School, 9401 N. Boulevard St., Tampa
  Monday & Tuesday, 6:20-9:30 p.m., Nov. 3, 9, 10
  Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday, 6:20-9:30 p.m., Nov. 16, 17, 18
  Teacher: Jonathan Burnett



• Nov. 30 - Dec. 15
  Chamberlain High School, 9401 N. Boulevard Street, Tampa, FL
  Monday & Tuesday, 6:20-9:30 p.m. for 3 weeks
  Teacher: Jonathan Burnett

MEDIA only:
Kemly Jimenez Green
Communications Department
813.276.2677 (office)
813.230.5406 (cell)