PORT ST. LUCIE \u2014 St. Lucie County Education Foundation is proud to be a recipient of a Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) EmPOWERing STEM Educators grant, supporting the advancement of STEM-focused professional learning for teachers in St. Lucie County. This statewide initiative strengthens math and science instruction through peer-to-peer collaboration and classroom innovation.<\/p>\n
The FPL EmPOWERing STEM Educators program increases teacher knowledge of effective, standards-aligned instructional strategies while encouraging the practical implementation of innovative approaches in the classroom. The emphasis on educator-led learning communities allows teachers to share best practices and deepen their impact through collaboration.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe support from FPL allows us to invest directly in our educators\u2019 professional growth and sends a strong message that their work matters,\u201d said Thom Jones, President. \u201cWhen teachers feel valued and are given meaningful opportunities to collaborate and innovate, it not only improves instruction\u2014it helps us retain great teachers in our classrooms.\u201d<\/p>\n
The Consortium of Florida Education Foundations manages the program, which helps local education foundations across the state share resources, strategies, and support to ensure meaningful implementation. Since 2018, FPL has partnered with the Consortium to invest more than $600,000 in this initiative, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to improving STEM education statewide.<\/p>\n
\u201cFor the last 100 years, FPL has been committed to powering strong communities. Our investment in STEM education is a way to spark innovation and opportunity for the next generation,\u201d said Sarah Marmion, FPL senior manager of education outreach. \u201cBy supporting our teachers through these grants, we\u2019re empowering them with the resources they need to inspire students and cultivate the problem-solvers and innovators of tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n
FPL also supports teachers and students through other programs such as its STEM Classroom Makeover Grants. These grants provide educators with $50,000 to transform their learning environments with cutting-edge technology and hands-on materials. The program has helped Florida teachers create dynamic, interactive classrooms that make science, technology, engineering and mathematics more engaging for their students.Applications open this fall. You can learn more about other FPL\u2019s education initiatives by visiting FPL.com\/Education<\/a>.<\/p>\n The St. Lucie County Education Foundation continues to champion innovation and excellence in education by providing resources and opportunities that empower both teachers and students. Through strategic partnerships, like the one with FPL, the Foundation supports initiatives that enhance classroom learning and inspire future-ready skills. From classroom grants and scholarships to teacher recognition programs and community engagement events, the Foundation plays a vital role in shaping a brighter future for St. Lucie County\u2019s public schools.<\/p>\n