PORT ST. LUCIE — The Education Foundation of St. Lucie County is pleased to welcome back teachers, students, staff and volunteers to the A-rated school district for the 2026-2027 school year. Aligning with the District’s goals, the Foundation is set to continue supporting literacy, math, science and CTE while seeking funding for its Center for Innovation and Teacher’s First initiatives. To help meet these goals, the Foundation’s Board of Directors has approved of and expanded the team.
The Foundation welcomed Business Development Director Stacy Annone and expanded the existing role of Administrative and Marketing Manager Deb Pizzimenti. Further, new Accounting Manager Diana Ferrante will be assuming new responsibilities to assist the Foundation and its Board of Directors to meet their 2026 – 2027 goals. Long-time Program Manager Jackie Wolfe continues her work with Adopt-A-Class, Teacher Grants, and various other programs requiring expertise and grant management.
Annone joins the team this year as Business Development Director, bringing more than 30 years of experience in executive leadership, business development, strategic consulting, and nonprofit fundraising. She is committed to building strong partnerships with investors, municipalities, and community stakeholders to secure resources and expand educational opportunities for the Foundation. Pizzimenti continues in her role as the Foundation’s Administrative and Marketing Coordinator working closely with staff to support their needs disseminating details with the community at large. Deb brings along her 18 years of community service knowledge as well as a passion for nonprofit work that shines through in her work at the Foundation. Ferrante brings 28 years of bookkeeping experience from the private sector. Wolfe, the Foundation’s Program Manager, is working closely with its grant funders to meet their deliverables while exploring new opportunities that will elevate public education and support
teachers and classrooms in the county. Jackie has been with the Foundation for more than 9 years and is a cornerstone supporting Jones in his role as President.
“We’ve got a strong and solid team.” said Thom Jones, Foundation president. “These outstanding leaders and self-starters are just what the Foundation needs to shape our future as we grow and expand supporting St. Lucie Public Schools. Connecting community to our classrooms is key to our success and I believe we have the team to do just that for years to come.” Jones further added.
Next up for the Education Foundation is a blast from the past with its Evening for Education Back to the Future Gala that will be held on November 7, 2026 at the Pelican Yacht Club. As a blast from the past, the Foundation will be welcoming supporters from the early years at it’s Back to the Future themed event. Details may be found on the organization’s website and social media channels.
The St. Lucie County Education Foundation, Inc. is the direct support organization for the St. Lucie County Public School District.
Founded in 1990, the Foundation’s mission is to connect the community to classrooms, innovate learning, power potential and celebrate success. The Education Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. For more information on its events, contact Deb Pizzimenti, Administrative and Marketing Coordinator at 772 429-3919 or Deb.Pizzimenti@stlucieschools.org.