Alta Vista Elementary selected for STEM classroom initiative
Alta Vista Elementary School in Sarasota is receiving a $50,000 grant to transform a classroom into an innovative STEM learning space as part of a statewide Florida Power & Light Company initiative.
Students will have new opportunities to explore science, technology, engineering and math thanks to FPL’s Classroom Makeover Grant program. The company expanded the program this year from five to 20 STEM makeover grants to celebrate its centennial.
“This grant will empower students with the skills to thrive in a rapidly evolving world,” said Jennifer Vigne, president and CEO of the Education Foundation of Sarasota County, which will partner with FPL and Alta Vista to oversee the grant. “We are proud to support this initiative and excited to see the lasting impact it will have on these young minds.”
Alta Vista will have one year to redesign and revitalize their classroom with cutting-edge technological resources, modern equipment, and hands-on learning materials, including virtual reality and 3D printers, robotics kits, and interactive displays. Now in its fourth year, the FPL initiative supports transformational learning for economically disadvantaged students in K-12 Title 1 public, charter or private schools or for schools serving a minimum of 40% economically disadvantaged students.
“We believe in the power of education and the endless possibilities that STEM learning can unlock for students,” said Pam Rauch, FPL vice president of external affairs. “We are incredibly excited to witness the creativity and growth that will flourish in each of the schools that receive these game-changing grants.”
For more information on FPL’s educational programs, visit FPL.com/Education.
Charlotte County resources still open for hurricane relief
In continuing response to damage caused by Hurricanes Ian, Idalia, Helene, and Milton, Charlotte County’s Disaster Assistance Program remains active with resources to support residents, offering financial aid and home repair support to qualifying residents.
The Disaster Assistance Program provides support to eligible residents who may not have access to other forms of assistance. “This program is part of our commitment to ensuring that every resident has access to support,” said Angela Hogan, CEO of the Gulf Coast Partnership.
The program prioritizes residents facing severe storm-related damage, particularly those who are displaced homeowners and renters; low-income households as defined by HUD; head of household age 60 or older; and people with disabling conditions.
Charlotte County residents can complete a Disaster Assistance Application online by visiting coadfl.org and clicking the Get Started button. For more information, visit coadfl.org or contact Deb Houck, Long-Term Recovery Director, at ltr@gulfcoastpartnership.org or 941-769-5162.
JFCS of the Suncoast raises $325,000 at ‘Hope’ luncheon
JFCS of the Suncoast’s inaugural Hope in Bloom luncheon at Selby Gardens recently raised $325,000 to support programs for families and children in the community.
The event featured special guest Alexis, a camper from JFCS’s Camp Mariposa, a camp designed for children who have a family member struggling with addiction. Alexis shared her story of growing up in a family affected by addiction and how Camp Mariposa helped her heal and grow.
“We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of generosity from our community,” said Dr. Helene Lotman, CEO of JFCS of the Suncoast. “The funds will make a profound difference in the lives of those we serve, especially the children and families who look to JFCS for support.”
The event also honored Stan and Jo Rutstein for their dedication to JFCS and the community. For information about JFCS of the Suncoast and its programs, visit jfcs-cares.org.
Around and about
· Big Waters Land Trust will host its Wild About Nature Festival on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at its Bay Preserve headquarters, 400 Palmetto Ave., Osprey. The free children’s festival includes exhibits from more than 25 local environmental and youth-serving organizations. bigwaterslandtrust.org/wildaboutnature.
· Choral Artists of Sarasota will present an encore of “Considering Matthew Shepard” on Saturday at 4 p.m. at First Congregational United Church of Christ (1031 S. Euclid Ave.) in Sarasota. Tickets/info: ChoralArtistsSarasota.org; 941-387-6046.
· Wellen Park will host a Family Fun Day on April 12 from noon-4 p.m. in Downtown Wellen, 19725 Wellen Park Blvd., North Port. The event includes carnival games, face painting, a dance party, arts and crafts, and the Atlanta Braves’ fast-pitch batting cage. wellenpark.com/events/family-fun-day.
· Gulf Cove United Methodist Church in Port Charlotte will host an Easter Egg Hunt on April 19 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for children up to age 12. The event (1100 S. McCall Road ) includes a bounce house, games, crafts, and free food. GulfCoveUMC@gmail.com; 941-697-1747.
Submissions by Kristine Janata, Kelly Hunter, Kristina Englund, U.S. Navy Media, Sam Valentin, Su Byron, Emily Ford, and Dana Hanson.
This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Alta Vista Elementary School in Sarasota selected for FPL’s STEM classroom initiative
Reporting by Sarasota Herald-Tribune / Sarasota Herald-Tribune
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