Amidst the vibrant streets of downtown Fort Myers, a nonprofit organization has been a driving force in supporting and enhancing education for Lee County’s students. The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools, founded in 1986, has been dedicated to improving the quality of education in local public schools for nearly four decades.

Focused on bridging the gap between the needs of students and the resources available, the Foundation works tirelessly to ensure that every student has the support and tools necessary to succeed, both academically and personally. Through strategic partnerships with businesses, community leaders, and philanthropists, the Foundation plays a critical role in fostering educational innovation and equity across the district. Its commitment to strengthening public education has made a lasting impact on the lives of countless students, teachers, and families throughout the region.

Through its initiatives, the Foundation aims to foster educational innovation, promote equity, and ensure that every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential. The organization provides resources that complement the work of local schools, creating a lasting impact on students, educators, and the community as a whole.

The Foundation supports a diverse range of impactful programs that directly benefit students, teachers, and schools across the district. Among its key initiatives are the Golden Apple Teacher Recognition Program, which honors exceptional educators, and Take Stock in Children, a scholarship and mentorship program designed to empower underserved students. The Foundation also funds Classroom, School, and District Grants to support innovative teaching projects that inspire creativity and learning. Additionally, programs like Kids Tag Art promote student creativity while raising vital funds for school arts programs. The annual Wicked Walk event brings the community together for a fun-filled evening of Halloween festivities, all while raising crucial support for public education in Lee County.

As part of the College & Career segment, the Foundation supports programs like STAMP (Student Advocacy & Mentoring Partnership), a mentoring program that provides at-risk high school students with guidance, motivation, and resources to help them graduate and pursue post-secondary education or technical training.

The Foundation also provides the STEM@Work program, an initiative that connects students with real-world STEM career experiences. FAFSA Nights play a key role in helping families navigate the financial aid process, ensuring that all students have access to the resources needed to pursue higher education. Each of these programs, and many more, play a vital role in enriching the educational experience for local students and fostering a stronger, more engaged community.

The organization is grateful to be backed by a diverse group of generous sponsors, including Lee Health, B&I Contractors, the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation, Suncoast Credit Union,

FineMark National Bank, and many other exceptional local businesses and community partners. Their unwavering support plays a pivotal role in enabling the Foundation to advance its mission of strengthening and sustaining public education across Lee County.

If you are interested in contributing to the Foundation’s efforts or becoming a sponsor, your support can make a lasting difference in the lives of Lee County students. Whether through financial contributions, volunteering, or sponsoring a program, there are many ways to get involved. To learn more or to find out how you can help, contact the Foundation at info@leeschoolfoundation.org.

Marshall T. Bower, Esq. is the president and CEO of the Foundation for Lee County Public Schools.