By Bay Education Foundation
At the Bay Education Foundation, our mission is to support the educational development of Bay District School students by providing enhanced opportunities for quality education and promoting greater community involvement in education. Since our inception in 1989, we have been dedicated to enriching the academic experiences of our students and fostering a community that values and invests in education.
Our Programs
We offer a variety of programs aimed at supporting students, educators, and staff within our district:
Take Stock in Children: This mentoring program pairs deserving, low-income students with caring volunteer mentors. Students who complete the program earn a Florida Prepaid scholarship for post-secondary education. Our comprehensive services continue through high school and include their transition into college.
District Scholars Program: In partnership with Florida State University Panama City, Gulf Coast State College, St. Joe Community Foundation, and Grand Canyon University, this initiative supports Bay District Schools employees interested in becoming classroom teachers. The program offers college tuition assistance and support to create a pathway toward teacher certification.
Graduating Senior Scholarships: We administer nearly thirty scholarships annually, many established in honor or memory of individuals with close ties to Bay District Schools. These scholarships, funded by community organizations and businesses, support local education and help students pursue higher education goals.
Grants for Great Ideas (GGI): Proceeds from our Arts Alive event fund grants for educators who use the visual arts to promote student learning in academic disciplines. Art teachers and others incorporating visual arts in the classroom are invited to apply for these $1,000 grants.
Greener Grass: This Employee Tuition Assistance program is available to all district employees seeking to further their education. By supporting our staff’s professional development, we aim to enhance the overall quality of education within our schools.
Our Impact
The success stories of our students and staff highlight the profound impact of our programs. For instance, Olivia, a senior at Bozeman High School, graduated early after having a baby. As a scholar in our Take Stock in Children program since age thirteen, she earned a 2-year Florida Prepaid scholarship. With our support, Olivia registered as a first-generation college student at Gulf Coast State College, changing the course of her family’s future.
Community Involvement
Our work is made possible through the generosity of our donors and volunteers. We host several fundraising events, such as Arts Alive, Golf Fore Education, and Strides for Scholars, to raise vital funds supporting our mission. Additionally, we encourage community members to become mentors, offering guidance and support to our students as they navigate their educational journeys.
Looking Ahead
As we continue to grow, we remain committed to providing quality educational opportunities for our community’s students. We invite parents, business leaders, and community members to join us in our mission by increasing their involvement with Bay District Schools and the Bay Education Foundation. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of our students and the future of our community.
For more information on our programs, events, or how to get involved, please visit our website at https://bayeducationfoundation.org/.
