The Polk Education Foundation plans to expand AmeriCorps Polk Reads into fourth and fifth grades and five additional schools, with a GiveWell grant honoring Mabel Schaefer.
Category: Education
Planning a Move to Bartow, Mi Escuela Wants People to Think Differently About Montessori
The bilingual, tuition-free public charter school’s new Bartow campus will feature a student kitchen, art studio with a kiln, dance space, and gardens.
For 1 in 5 Students, Reading is a Barrier — Roberts Academy Is Working to Change That
Florida Southern College’s Roberts Academy marks 15 years of helping students with dyslexia close literacy gaps — and reshape their futures.
Young Chefs Take the Spotlight at IDEA Lakeland Cook-Off
National program uses hands-on cooking to build confidence and encourage healthier habits among students.
Polk Schools Approve WonderHere Pilot at Philip O’Brien Elementary
The two-year pilot will bring a project-based learning program into Philip O’Brien Elementary as part of a new public-private partnership.
Many Polk Students Start Kindergarten Already Behind — Local Programs Aim to Change That
62% of Polk County children were not ready for kindergarten in 2024. Can early language skills and programs like Camp READY close the gap?
GMF Steel Career Fair Draws Hundreds of Students to Explore Skilled Trades
Lakeland event connects high schoolers with construction career paths.
Free Tax Program Helps Polk County Residents Save Hundreds on Filing
United Way of Central Florida expands its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, increasing daily appointments by 166%.
$2.9 Million in Federal Funds Expands Florida Poly’s Cybersecurity Lab
The multimillion dollar investment strengthens Polk’s cybersecurity and AI talent pipeline.
Polk County Schools Hit Record Graduation Rate as Campuses See Major Gains
Graduation rate climbs to 87.7% as multiple Polk County high schools post major gains.

