Prestigious STEM Grants Transform Classrooms in Two Miami-Dade Schools
Thousands of local students will have new opportunities to explore science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) as Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) announces a major expansion of its Classroom Makeover Grant program. Two schools from Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) will each receive a $50,000 grant to transform their classroom into an innovative learning space, igniting a passion for STEM among its students.
In celebration of FPL’s centennial, the company is super-sizing the program this year, expanding from five STEM Classroom Makeover Grants to 20 grants across the state – quadrupling the program and devoting $1 million to benefit Florida students.
“We are incredibly grateful to Florida Power & Light for their generous support of our STEAM lab. This donation empowers our students to explore science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics in innovative ways, sparking curiosity and preparing them for the future,” said Cristian Carranza, M-DCPS Administrative Director, Division of Academics – STEAM. “FPL’s commitment to education is truly lighting the way for the next generation of thinkers and leaders.”
The winning schools in Miami-Dade County:
– Hialeah Gardens Senior High School – Hialeah Gardens, FL
– Miami Norland Senior High School – Miami, FL
Each school will have one year to redesign and revitalize their classrooms, infusing them with cutting-edge technological resources, modern equipment and hands-on learning materials. From virtual reality and 3D printers to robotics kits and interactive displays, these schools will purchase the supplies they need to foster a dynamic learning environment that encourages critical thinking, collaboration and problem-solving skills.
“At FPL, we believe in the power of education and the endless possibilities that STEM learning can unlock for students. We are incredibly excited to witness the creativity and growth that will flourish in each of the schools that receive these game-changing grants,” said Pam Rauch, FPL Vice President of External Affairs and Economic Development. “We strongly believe that STEM education is the cornerstone of a prosperous future, and these grants will serve as a catalyst for fostering innovation, curiosity and lifelong learning in our communities. We are honored to be able to grow the program to the benefit of even more students.”
Now in its fourth year, FPL’s STEM Classroom Makeover Grant program, through its charitable arm the NextEra Energy Foundation, provides $50,000 grants for eligible Florida schools to offer transformational learning for economically disadvantaged students in K-12, Title I, public, charter or private schools or for schools serving a minimum of 40 percent economically disadvantaged students. Funds are available to address technology or resources that will advance STEM curricula, exposure and careers to diverse students in a classroom setting.
Previous Classroom Makeover Grant winners from Miami-Dade County include:
Coconut Palm K-8 Academy – Homestead, FL
County Club Middle School – Hialeah, FL
For more information on FPL’s educational programs, visit FPL.com/Education.
