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January 7, 2026
📚 Big learning starts small! ✨
Planning ahead for the 2026–27 school year? Our VPK programs are here to help your child build strong foundations in early literacy, math, and social skills, all while learning through play and exp...
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Latest News
January 20, 2026
Free Books for Little Readers 📚
We’re excited to share New Worlds Reading, a free Florida program designed to help our youngest learners grow their reading skills and their love of books. Eligible students in VPK through 5th grad...
January 16, 2026
John Oswald Memorial Scholarship
If you have a graduating senior who is also a proud Challenger K-8 alum, this scholarship is a wonderful opportunity. Applications must be submitted by April 10.
January 15, 2026
Attention Challenger, Powell and West Hernando 8th Graders
Future Bears, this one’s for you. 🐻💙Families of the Class of 2030—your next chapter starts here. Join us for The GROWL 2026, an exciting night to explore what Central High School has to offer, meet...
School Profile
Mission Statement:
The Hernando County School District collaborates with students, parents and other community stakeholders to effectively prepare all students for a successful transition into a diverse and changing world.
Grades: 9-12
Enrollment: 1300 students
Principal: Brad Merschbach
Assistant Principals: Jodi LaRocca, Josandra Maner and Kristin Peeples
School Hours: 7:20 AM – 2:10 PM
Principal’s Message
Welcome to Nature Coast Technical High School, home of the Sharks!
At NCT, we believe high school should prepare students not only for graduation, but for the future that awaits them. That’s why our campus is alive with opportunities - rigorous academics, spirited student life, and career pathways that are second to none. Our commitment is to ensure that every Shark leaves prepared, confident, and equipped with both knowledge and real-world experience.
Our students have access to a robust variety of technical clusters and programs that provide hands-on skills and industry certifications. At NCT, students choose from pathways - including Digital Cinema, Information Technology, Commercial Art, Allied Health, Automotive, Engineering, Aerospace, Criminal Justice, Culinary Arts, Energy, and Performing Arts. Each program is built to provide hands-on experience and a competitive edge beyond graduation. These programs do more than teach technical skills; they connect classroom learning to careers, allowing students to explore passions, serve the community, and step into life after high school ready to lead in college, technical schools, the military, or the workforce.
What sets NCT apart is our culture. Students don’t just attend - they belong. The “Shark Tank” is a place where academics, athletics, and the arts all thrive together. Students are encouraged to take pride in who they are and what they contribute. Whether it’s a performance on stage, innovation in the shop, service in the community, or competition on the field, our Sharks know they are supported every step of the way. High expectations here are always matched by high support, and that balance is what helps our students reach their fullest potential.
Our tradition of excellence is paired with an undeniable school spirit - you can feel it in the energy of our classrooms, the student section on game nights, and the commitment our staff and families bring to our shared mission. Homecoming week, spirit days, pep rallies, performances, and time-honored NCT traditions and cheers all showcase the school pride woven into everything we do. At Nature Coast Technical High School, we bleed black and Columbia blue, and we celebrate the accomplishments of our students with pride.
As principal, I am honored to serve alongside our dedicated staff, engaged families, and supportive community partners who make our vision possible. Together, we lead The TECHWAY: Where Sharks Lead and Culture Thrives.
With Shark Pride,
Brad Merschbach, Principal of Nature Coast Technical High School
“Shark led, Culture Fed”
Frequently Asked Questions
Can’t find what you need? Use the search feature at the top of the page to look up key words.
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Safety is one of our top priorities. We have secure campus entry points, regular emergency drills and guardians trained in emergency response. Our visitor management system ensures that all guests are signed in and monitored.
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Our school day begins at 7:20 a.m. and ends at 2:10 p.m. On early release days dismissal is at 11:10 a.m.
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Registration can be done in person at the school office.
Required documents include proof of residence, birth certificate, and immunization records.
Click here for more information. -
In Hernando County School District, technology is seamlessly integrated into classrooms to enhance teaching and learning across all grade levels. Students benefit from a one-to-one Microsoft laptop program, giving them daily access to powerful tools like Microsoft 365 and Canva for Education. Teachers use interactive smartboards such as Promethean and Newline to deliver dynamic lessons, while platforms like Canvas LMS and Nearpod support personalized instruction, real-time feedback, and student engagement. Classrooms are also equipped with audio enhancement systems to ensure every student can hear clearly, improving focus and accessibility. These tools foster collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking, preparing students for success in a digital world while promoting responsible digital citizenship.
