The Foundation's partnerships with the private sector have allowed us to create and operate programs and initiatives that give students and teachers in Lee County public schools the opportunity to excel. We support students and families who are in financial need, provide educators resources for an effective learning environment and reward students and educators who prove their excellence.

	A-Team Challenge is a high school academic competition between high schools in the six county area of SWFL. Students answer questions in the areas of Language Arts, Science, Math, Social Studies, Art/Humanities, and General Knowledge.		The Academy of Teachers is made up of the former 128 Golden Apple Recipients. This group of outstanding educators mentors other district teachers and helps to develop curriculum for Foundation programs.
	Art Speak Expressive Arts Enrichment Program integrates art and verbal communications to help students with Autism Spectrum Disorders tap into their talents and interests. Children are intrigued with art and respond to the opportunity to express themselves in new and creative ways.		Business Partners forms partnerships between public schools and local businesses. Businesses can "adopt" a school by pledging to provide it with time, talent and/or treasure for one school year.
	Career Days provides students an opportunity to experience local industries and economies through interacting with local business leaders and learning the educational necessities to begin a career in a chosen field.		Carson Scholars Fund provides $1,000, merit based, college scholarships to fifth grade students who are nominated by their principal. Scholarship recipients demonstrate strong civic qualities and have at least a 3.75 GPA.
	Classroom Grants give funds to educators to create unique learning opportunities that enhance student learning. Since its inception, Classroom Grants has brought over $1,000,000 directly to the classroom.		Collegium for the Advancement of Education is a teacher training and development program that focuses on best classroom practices and student accountability. Teachers who ranked high in the Golden Apple process are invited to Collegium.
	Dancing Classrooms is about creating an atmosphere which allows students to step out and shine. It builds self-esteem, interactive social skills and improves confidence and children's ability to relate to others through the practice of dance.		Golden Apple Teacher Recognition Program allows students, parents, colleagues, administrators and community members to nominate deserving outstanding teachers for recognition. Through a selection process, six teachers are honored annually as Golden Apples.
	Jim and Ellie Newton Children's Literature Center started from a generous donation from the late Jim & Ellie Newton. Teachers from all grade levels can check out classroom sets of books to use for their students.		Take Stock in Children Scholarships provides an opportunity for low-income, at-risk students to escape the cycle of poverty through education. Lee County has awarded 508 full tuition scholarships.
	Teacher Resource Center is a facility for teachers to obtain needed classroom supplies for free. Businesses and individuals donate goods for teachers which are then used to make the classroom environment more conducive for learning.		More Initiatives State of our Schools Breakfast, Partners in Education Breakfast, Entertainment Books, Mentoring, License for Learning License Plates, Bucketfillers