Cocoa, Fla. – Students eagerly explored the reimagined STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) lab at Endeavour Elementary, excited to experience their new learning environment. This innovative space was made possible by a Classroom Makeover Grant from Florida Power & Light Company (FPL). It aims to ignite a passion for a vary of subjects and inspire interest in future STEM careers.
On Friday, March 28 in Cocoa FL, Endeavour Elementary celebrated their Classroom Makeover reveal with Florida Power & Light Company, the Brevard Schools Foundation, Brevard Public Schools and local elected officials.
Excited students walked into their newly renovated STEM classroom at Endeavour Elementary on Friday, March 28, in Cocoa, Fla. The transformation was made possible through Florida Power & Light Company’s STEM Classroom Makeover Grant, awarded to five schools statewide for the 2023-24 academic year.
“This FPL grant is a game-changer for our students and community. I have seen firsthand the power of hands-on learning and access to quality resources,” said Kristi Shorts, Math and Science Coach at Endeavour Elementary School. “This makeover will provide our students with the tools and technology they deserve, inspiring the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and critical thinkers.”
FPL joined the Brevard Schools Foundation and Brevard Public Schools to celebrate the completion of the STEM Classroom Makeover at Endeavour Elementary. The $50,000 grant from FPL enabled Endeavour Elementary to incorporate cutting-edge technology, including 3D printers, iPads, microscopes and STEM tools creating an immersive learning experience. The redesigned classroom now features advanced STEM technology aimed at enhancing student engagement and fostering creativity.
“We are incredibly proud to present the newly renovated STEM classroom at Endeavour Elementary,” said Dr. Rendell, Superintendent, Brevard Public Schools. “Thanks to FPL’s generous support, our students now have access to cutting-edge technology that will ignite their curiosity and drive their success in STEM fields. This is a significant step forward in providing our students with the tools they need to excel and thrive.”
“Through FPL’s commitment to advancing STEM education, we are providing students at Endeavour Elementary with tools and technology that will empower them to think critically, solve problems, and imagine possibilities beyond the classroom,” said Janice Kershaw, President/CEO, Brevard Schools Foundation. “The success of this project reflects the power of strong partnerships between the business community and public education.”
Now in its fourth year, FPL’s STEM Classroom Makeover Grant program, funded through the company’s charitable arm, the NextEra Energy Foundation, provides $50,000 grants for eligible Florida schools to offer transformational learning opportunities 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. FPL provides funding to address technology or resources that will advance STEM curricula, exposure, and careers to students in a classroom setting.
In February, FPL announced that in recognition of its centennial the company is super-sizing the program for the 2024-25 school year, expanding from five Classroom Makeover Grants to 20 grants across the state – quadrupling the program and devoting $1 million to benefit local students. The winning classrooms will be announced in the coming weeks, allowing more schools than ever to transform a space for their students to drive a passion for STEM subjects.
Endeavour Elementary students proudly showcased their new 3D printers to FPL employees on Friday, March 28, in Cocoa, Fla.
“We firmly believe in the power of education and the difference it can make in the lives of our youth,” said Pam Rauch, FPL Vice President of External Affairs and Economic Development. “We are thrilled to be a part of creating a dynamic learning atmosphere for students across Florida. This classroom transformation at Endeavour Elementary represents our ongoing commitment to supporting education and providing students with the tools they need to thrive.”
For more information about FPL’s STEM Classroom Makeover Grant and its commitment to education, please visit FPL.com/ClassroomGrant.