Out2News Education

Spellbinding Success: Harry Potter-themed Gala Raises $185,000 for Martin County Students

In Photo: Jessica and Stephen Sines of Morganti, presenting sponsor

(Photo by: Paul Careccia)

Palm City — More than 200 people stepped into the magical world of Harry Potter at this year's Evening of Excellence | Bids for Kids event, which benefits Martin County students. Hosted by the Education Foundation of Martin County and presented by Morganti, this elegant gala fundraiser took place on Saturday, April 5, at Harbour Ridge Country Club.

The Harry Potter themed event, with decorations of Potter's wizardry strewn throughout the room, raised $185,000 to assist the Education Foundation in enriching and enhancing the quality of education in Martin County's public schools.

"This event is the place to be for those who support Martin County's students," said Lisa Rhodes, executive director of the Education Foundation of Martin County. "We couldn't present this fun-filled affair without the support of our sponsors, bidders, auction donors and attendees. We are so grateful!"

With more than 500 silent auction items, it's known as the largest of its kind on the Treasure Coast. Guests bid on items that included gift baskets, vacation getaways, spa treatments, golf packages, jewelry, artwork, fishing charters, and restaurant certificates as they enjoyed cocktails and hors d'oeuvres.

Volunteer auctioneer Tom Melander conducted the live portion of the Bids for Kids auction as guests enjoyed dinner. Vanessa Molina-Council of Citrus Grove Elementary School, this year's Teacher of the Year winner, encouraged attendees to raise their paddles high during the bidding process.

Joshua Perry the 2024 Teacher of the Year winner from Crystal Lake Elementary School, and Lisa Rhodes, executive director of the Education Foundation of Martin County, handled the Call to Action bidding process, which raised money that is earmarked to support new teachers during their first few years of entering the profession.

Event sponsors were the Morganti Group, presenting sponsor; Hedrick Brothers Construction; Keiser University; Jeanine Webster, CFP & Mel Nobel - The Travel Guy; Gehring Group – A Risk Strategies Company; UDT; Paul Jacquin & Sons Construction; Proctor Construction; Harvard Jolly PBK; AT&T; Laviano & Associates – Real Estate Professionals; Ocean Breeze Animal Hospital; Tami Karol Insurance; Florida Power & Light Company; Anthony D. George, Jr., P.A.; Florida Combined Life; Renaissance Learning; Napoli Orthodontics; WM (Waste Management); Food Shop, Inc.; Taryn & Kevin Kryzda; Beauchamp, Sang, Gonzales & Philpott, P.A.; PNC Bank; Fox McCluskey; Briana Lawson Foundation, The Hyde Group LLC; and SwissMango.

For information, about the Education Foundation of Martin County, visit the website, www.EducationFoundationMC.org or call the office at 772-600-8062.

The Education Foundation of Martin County is the Martin County School District's strategic non-profit partner with the mission of enriching and enhancing educational opportunities and support for students and teachers in Martin County's public schools. As an independent group, the Foundation promotes this effort by raising and distributing private and corporate funds through several established programs, including classroom enrichment grants, literacy and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, & Math) programs, professional development for teachers, special initiatives, scholarships and programs to recognize outstanding teaching. For more information, visit www.EducationFoundationMC.org.

In Photo: Joe Keating, Tracey Miller, Patty Morris and Todd Miller (Photo by: Doreen Porebo)

In Photo: Jenna and James Taylor (Photo by: Doreen Porebo)

In Photo: Marc & Shelley Turull (Photo by: Doreen Porebo)

In Photo: Josh & Jennifer Russell (Photo by: Doreen Porebo)

In Photo: Lois & Jim McGuire (Photo by: Doreen Porebo)

In Photo: BACK ROW/Cindy and Tom Solomon, Charlotte and Manny Castro / FRONT ROW-Cindy & Glenn Pedreira (Photo by Doreen Porebo)

Tradition Preparatory High School Hosts Second Annual Student Symposium

In Photo: Principal Christiana Coburn with Student Symposium Coordinator Kimber Grillo

Article & Photos by MaryAnn Ketcham
Port St Lucie - Tradition Preparatory High School held its second annual Student Symposium, coordinated by junior Kimber Grillo and sponsored by Mattamy Homes and The Cottages. The event highlighted the academic achievements and community involvement of Tradition Prep students.

The Symposium featured a college and career fair that included booths from various organizations, such as Indian River State College, Palm Beach Atlantic University, Marsh & McLennan Insurance, Palm Beach International Aviation, local banks, businesses, law enforcement agencies, and several branches of the U.S. military. Students valued the opportunity to explore these diverse career paths.

Scheduled exploratory sessions offered a variety of options, including several TED Talks. One notable talk was on public service and civic engagement, led by Port St. Lucie City Councilman David Pickett.

Students enjoyed the spotlight as they led numerous Master Classes and informational sessions, including Drawing, Dance, and Creative Writing.

Practical skills lessons, including resume writing, interview techniques, SAT preparation tips, FAFSA application assistance, and financial literacy, enhanced the skills of attendees.

Outside, students observed K-9 and SWAT demonstrations, tested their skills on an agility course, explored aquaponics, and experienced farming by interacting with chickens.

A fashion show featuring Tradition Prep students showcasing stylish prom attire from sponsors Men's Wearhouse and My Crowning Closet brought loud, festive cheers from their peers as they walked the runway!

Of this year's Symposium, Principal Christiana Coburn said, "We are proud to provide students with opportunities to analyze current research and innovation in our community. At Tradition Preparatory we strive to prepare students for our constantly evolving workforce.”

To learn more, please visit TraditionPrep.org

In Photo: Student Presenter on drawing Cori Binnet

In Photo: Fabiana Carreno and Ciego Cisneros in drawing class

In Photo: Abigail Frey gets her reflexes checked by Jennifer Simmons

In Photo: Anais Casimir and Grace Benson label the different sections of the sheep brain

In Photo: Adrian Riveon and Ethan Lopez talk football with Jill Todd of Bonneville Football Academy

In Photo: Bob Terry of Independent Electrical Contractors with Noel Fairweather

In Photo: Exploring Farming through Chickens are Sophia Arguelles and Christian Valentine

In Photo: Elizabeth Cintron, Rebecca Lambright, Ethan Mayer, Leya Noel, Author (Color Theory) Nia Hogan and Malaysia Massey

In Photo: The Fort Pierce Jazz & Blues Society performs a tune

In Photo: Councilman David Pickett on hand to discuss Public Service and Civic Engagement

In Photo: Prom outfits provided by sponsors Men's Wearhouse and My Crowning Closet

Education Foundation of Martin County Plans Magical Celebration

Education Foundation Evening of Excellence 2025 a

In Photo: Vanessa Molina-Council, 2024-2025 Martin County Teacher of the Year and EFMC board member; Sarah Testa, marketing manager, Proctor Construction
Back Row: Joseph Keating, project executive, Hedrick Brothers Construction; Marshall Critchfield, external affairs manager, Florida Power & Light Company; Carson Proctor, business development associate, Proctor Construction; James Taylor, director of development, Paul Jacquin & Sons

Photos by: Doreen Poreba

Palm City — The wizardry of Harry Potter will be on full display at this year's Evening of Excellence | Bids for Kids event, which benefits Martin County students. Hosted by the Education Foundation of Martin County and presented by Morganti, this elegant gala fundraiser will take place from 6-11 p.m. on Saturday, April 5, at Harbour Ridge Country Club in Palm City and is expected to be a sell-out.

Tickets for this Harry Potter themed event are $250 per person (must be 21 and older to attend) and there are a limited number for sale. The event raises funds to assist the Education Foundation with enriching and enhancing the quality of education in Martin County's public schools.

Stephen Sines, vice president of operations for Morganti, a longtime presenting sponsor, stated, "Morganti is proud to once again support the Foundation's mission of enriching and enhancing educational opportunities and support for students and teachers in Martin County and it is an honor to partner with the Foundation in making a lasting impact on local education."

An Evening of Excellence is known for having the most silent auction items of any nonprofit event on the Treasure Coast. Guests will have the opportunity to peruse and bid on more than 500 auction items that include gift baskets, vacation getaways, spa treatments, golf packages, jewelry, artwork, fishing charters, and restaurant certificates as they enjoy cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. The Bids for Kids live auction will take place after guests feast on their choice of a surf and turf or vegetarian entrée, and then all will head to the dance floor. Raffle tickets for a wheelbarrow of liquor will also be on sale. All proceeds will go toward supporting educational enrichment programming for students.

Event sponsors are the Morganti Group, presenting sponsor; Keiser University; Hedrick Brothers Construction; Jeanine Webster & Mel Nobel; Paul Jacquin & Sons Construction; Gehring Group – A Risk Strategies Company; UDT; Proctor Construction; Harvard Jolly Architecture; AT&T; Laviano & Associates – Real Estate Professionals; Ocean Breeze Animal Hospital; Tami Karol Insurance; Florida Power & Light Company; Florida Combined Life; Anthony D. George, Jr., P.A.; Waste Management; Food Shop, Inc.; Taryn & Kevin Kryzda; Beauchamp, Sang, Gonzales & PhilPott, P.A.; PNC Bank; Fox McCluskey; and SwissMango.

For information, to buy tickets, or learn about sponsorship opportunities, visit www.EducationFoundationMC.org or call the office at 772-600-8062.

In Photo: Lisa Rhodes, executive Director, Education Foundation of Martin County; Jennifer Russell, Martin County school board member and EFMC board member; Michael Maine, Martin County School District superintendent of schools and EFMC board member; Lindsey Albertson, marketing coordinator at The Morganti Group; and Brent Martin, director of preconstruction & business development at The Morganti Group

Martin Youth LEADERship Class Delves into the Arts During Arts and Culture Day

Students from Class 26 (“Aliens Exist 26”) of Martin Youth LEADERship participated in ARTS AND CULTURE DAY recently.

The Arts & Culture Day Program Committee, chaired by Debbie Banta of the Elliott Museum, consisted of Nancy Turrell, Executive Director of the Martin Arts Council, Tammy Calabria Executive Director of the Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast, Francine Beckstead, Treasurer of the Barn Theatre, and Ms. Banta, Director of Engagement at the Elliott.

Students began their day at the Cultural Arts Center to view their recent juried art exhibit and to learn more about the economic impact of arts and culture-related jobs in Martin County. They had a hands-on opportunity to work on fictional proposal grants to present to each other.

Class members were encouraged to bring out their “inner child” during a stop of the Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast. After a brief introduction from Ms. Calabria, students were able to freely roam the interactive museum and reminisce about their past visits while appreciating this gem here on the Treasure Coast.

They traveled to the Elliott Museum, where they were greeted by President & CEO Rob Steele. At the Elliott, students were given the opportunity to tour the current UFO exhibit as well as the ongoing car gallery. As they regrouped for lunch, Grace Phillips from, Carr, Riggs & Ingram discussed her personal arts journey, and how that allowed her to work for a company interested in community involvement.

The final stop of the day was to the Barn Theatre, where students were greeted by Board Officer Francine
Beckstead and Technical Director Bryan Childe. Students got on stage to act out scenarios, sing impromptu songs and participate in actors’ training techniques. Bryan gave a presentation on volunteer opportunities at the Barn, career paths for theatre students, and his work as a set designer, sound engineer, and technical director. Finally, students toured both backstage to view the costumes, props, and machinery used for staging, as well as in the theatre to view their state of the art sound board, formally used on Broadway.
The Martin Youth LEADERship Program is designed for high school students in Martin County. Founded and underwritten by LEADERship Martin County Alumni, MYL is an opportunity for high school students to develop and enhance their leadership skills. Students must apply online or through their guidance offices, and a limited number are selected to participate in this comprehensive eight-month program that is modeled after LEADERship Martin County. Upon completion, these young Leaders have learned about their community including history, government, business, arts and culture, criminal justice and more.
For more information about MYL and how you too, might become a sponsor, donor, event coordinator, board member or obtain a student application for 2025-26, please see the group web site at: www.leadershipmcalumni.com/youth-leadership, or contact Jeanne Dunn, Program Coordinator, at [email protected] or at (772) 486-4695. Applications are open until May 23.

City of Fort Pierce Calls for Youth Award Nominations

Fort Pierce – Are you inspired by a middle or high school student who has achieved something extraordinary, excelled in academics or athletics, or overcome personal challenges to create positive change in their life or for those around them? The Mayor and Commissioners want to hear from you!

The City Commission is now accepting nominations for the inaugural City of Fort Pierce Youth Award Recognition Program. The deadline to submit nominations is March 31, 2025.

This award program aims to celebrate the talents, achievements, and positive contributions of our youth in improving Fort Pierce. Twice a year, citizens, business owners, and social and civic leaders will have the opportunity to recognize and support outstanding young individuals in our community. To nominate a deserving student, please complete the online nomination form.

Eligibility Requirements
Nominees must meet the following criteria:
Reside in the City of Fort Pierce.
Provide proof of address.
Have a cumulative GPA of 2.8 or higher.
Be enrolled in middle or high school.
Exhibit good character.

Award Categories
Youth can be nominated in one of six categories:
1. Innovator Award
2. Beyond the View Award
3. Humanitarian Award
4. Visionary Award
5. Role Model Award
6. Student-Athlete Award

Award recipients will be announced in June 2025.

For more information, please visit the city’s website at Youth Council | Fort Pierce, FL - Official Website to learn more about the Youth Award Recognition Program.

If you have any questions, please contact Audria V. Moore at 772.467.3184 or [email protected].

St. Lucie Public Schools Graduation Rate Continues Rise

St. Lucie County - St. Lucie Public Schools (SLPS) earned a graduation rate of 94.3% which exceeds the state average of 89.7%. SLPS is one of only three counties in the State that has a graduation rate exceeding 90%+ for 8 consecutive years. In addition, SLPS ranks 3rd overall in the state for districts with more than 3,000 students in the graduation cohort. The six traditional high schools boasted a rate of 98.14% for the 2023-2024 school year.

SLPS continues to close the achievement gap with all groups of students outperforming their respective state graduation rates.
State Rank – Subgroups (out of 67 Districts) 
2nd for Black students with a 94% graduation rate
6th for Economically Disadvantaged students with a 93.1% graduation rate
7th for English Language Learners with a 89.8% graduation rate
9th for Exceptional Student Education students with a 93.7% graduation rate
10th for White students with a 95.1% graduation rate
10th for Hispanic students with a 93.8% graduation rate

Superintendent Dr. Jon R. Prince commented, “I’m very proud of the work our staff did making this success possible. We are truly in elite company with sustaining such high graduation rates exceeding 90% for eight consecutive years. Only 3 other districts in the State of Florida can make that claim. Our teachers and administrators have worked relentlessly with our students to ensure their success and I’m proud of all our students who’ve worked so hard to cross that finish line. St. Lucie Public Schools upward trajectory continues.”

Three Martin County Schools Recognized Among Florida's Top 500 by U.S. News & World Report

Stuart - The Martin County School District is proud to announce that three of its schools have been ranked among Florida’s Top 500 elementary and middle schools by U.S. News & World Report. This prestigious recognition underscores the unwavering dedication of our students, educators, and school leaders to academic excellence and success.

Jensen Beach Elementary School earned an impressive #231 ranking, with 76% of students achieving proficiency or higher in math and 74% doing so in reading. Close behind, Bessey Creek Elementary School claimed the #282 spot, with 78% of students meeting or exceeding proficiency in both math and
reading.

At the middle school level, Hidden Oaks Middle School secured the #161 position. The school’s achievements include 80% of students reaching or surpassing proficiency in math and 68% achieving the same in reading.

Rankings from U.S. News & World Report are based on schools' performance on state-required tests, student outcomes, and their effectiveness in preparing learners for future success.

“I couldn’t be more proud of our students, teachers, and school leaders for their dedication and excellence in achieving these rankings,” Superintendent Michael Maine shared. “Our schools continue to reach new heights, positioning the District even closer to becoming the top school district in Florida.”

For more information about the Martin County School District’s commitment to educational excellence, please visit our website.

Hallo-Fun Times at Fort Pierce Central

Article by: Katherine Avra
Last Thursday, our school transformed into a spooktacular center as students and staff donned their most creative costumes for Halloween. The excitement reached new heights with SGA’s red carpet Halloween Costume competition held during both lunch periods. Contestants strutted their stuff, showcasing their unique and imaginative attire, while the student body cast their votes for the ultimate Halloween champions.

Building school spirit is essential for creating a positive and engaging learning environment. Events like Halloween costume contests foster a sense of community, camaraderie, and school pride. By participating in fun and festive activities, students develop lasting friendships, boost morale, and create cherished memories.

Education Foundation of Martin County Expands Staff

In Photo: Candice Tedesco - New Program Coordinator

Stuart — The Education Foundation of Martin County — Martin County School District’s strategic non-profit partner — has expanded its staff with the addition of two full-time employees and one temporary employee whose position has become permanent. Jinara Reyes has been named the new resource development coordinator, Candice Tedesco is the new program coordinator, and Pamela Amsbaugh works as the bookkeeper.

These staff additions are made possible in part from a grant provided by the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties.

“We are so grateful for the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties’ continued partnership and support as we continue to grow as an organization,” said Lisa Rhodes, executive director of the Education Foundation of Martin County. “The addition of these team members will strengthen our ability to deliver our mission of enriching and enhancing educational opportunities and support for students and teachers in Martin County’s public schools. We couldn’t be more excited!”

Reyes is responsible for raising funds to support Martin County’s students, teachers, and schools from individual and corporate benefactors. She also strives to drive community engagement to further excellence in education throughout the Martin County School District. Her broad experience in fundraising includes leadership solicitations, annual giving, major donor stewardship, events, prospect identification and solicitation, and financial reporting. Before joining the Education Foundation, she was the donor advancement manager, development events/corporate giving manager, of the Loggerhead Marinelife Center.

She earned her Bachelor of Arts in astronomy and Master of Business Administration from Boston University. She resides in Palm City.

As the program coordinator, Tedesco is responsible for bringing the Foundation’s programs to life. Her focus is on planning, organizing, and executing initiatives that align with the nonprofit’s mission. Previously, she was director of vocational services for ARC of the Treasure Coast. A dedicated educator and advocate, she has spent over a decade championing the needs of individuals with disabilities.

Tedesco’s journey began as a paraprofessional while studying special education and organization at Indian River State College, where she earned a Bachelor of Applied Science in organizational management. She resides in Port St. Lucie.

Amsbaugh’s role is in handling the organization’s accounting and finances. Her entire career has been in accounting and finance. She began as a bookkeeper, handled accounting software installations and tech support, and then worked as a controller at Medtronic PLC for 20 years before moving to Kent Management for three years and then retiring. She has been with the Education Foundation since October 2023 in a temporary role, which is now permanent.

Amsbaugh earned her Bachelor of Science from Rutgers University’s School of Business and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Baltimore’s Merrick School of Business. She resides in Port St. Lucie.

In Photo: Jinara Reyes

In Photo: Pamela Amsburg

Education Foundation of Martin County Sets up Hurricane Fund to Benefit Affected Schools

Stuart - The Education Foundation of Martin County (EFMC), in partnership with the Martin County School District, has established the Hurricane Milton Crisis Fund to support students, staff and their families who need urgent assistance. One hundred percent of the monies raised will benefit the parties.

In addition, the EFMC has created a fund to support Murray Middle School, which suffered a direct hit that resulted in lost buildings, including those that housed their music programs (band, chorus, and musical theatre) and agriculture program.
Those who wish to help can do so online at https://bit.ly/efmcstormfund.

“With the community’s generous contributions, we aim to raise an initial $100,000 to provide essential resources and emergency relief for families struggling to rebuild their lives,” said Lisa Rhodes, the EFMC’s executive director.

The Education Foundation of Martin County is the sole authorized organization for accepting hurricane relief donations on behalf of the Martin County School District and Murray Middle School, ensuring that every contribution directly impacts its students and staff.

Indian River Hoops Rally: A Slam Dunk of Community Spirit!

Vero Beach – Crossover Mission’s first-ever Indian River Hoops Rally Exhibition Game at the Center for Excellence was a resounding success, uniting student athletes, community organizations, leaders, and supporters for a memorable day of basketball, camaraderie, and inspiration.

The event provided Crossover Mission’s student athletes and others throughout the community with the invaluable opportunity to engage with collegiate players from Indian River State College (IRSC), fostering an atmosphere of encouragement and excitement. The energy in the gym was electric as the kids took to the court alongside IRSC players, learning, competing, and building connections. The IRSC players’ enthusiasm and respect were infectious, and for many, the highlight of the day was having their t-shirts and posters signed by the IRSC team. These personal mementos filled the students with pride, reminding us of the lasting impact events like these can have on their lives.

Adding to the day’s excitement, the Indian River Firefighters Benevolent Association made a special appearance, bringing their fire truck to the event. Students were thrilled to take photos with the firefighters and the IRSC players, even getting the chance to climb aboard the truck. The Association’s presence was made even more meaningful by their generous $5,000 sponsorship of Crossover Mission’s upcoming Gala, reinforcing the bond between both organizations and strengthening their shared commitment to supporting the local community.

“We would also like to express our appreciation to the Boys and Girls Club, Gifford Youth Achievement Center (GYAC), Youth Guidance, and various other agencies that participated in the event. Their involvement added an invaluable layer of collaboration, bringing more students together and making the day even more impactful. The spirit of community was palpable, and we are grateful for their ongoing partnership in supporting the youth of Indian River County.” said Cathy DeSchower, Co-founder and Executive Director.

Crossover Mission remains committed to preparing student athletes for success both on the court and in life. Through our College and Career Readiness Program, we inspire our students to pursue the many opportunities that further education can offer. IRSC serves as an excellent pathway for many of our athletes, and we proudly promote the school as a wonderful option for their academic and athletic journeys. We hope to see some of our Crossover athletes playing for IRSC in the future—perhaps even coached by the very people they met at this event.

Antoine Jennings, Co-Founder, Director of Operations, and Head Coach at Crossover Mission, expressed his appreciation, stating, “Special thanks go to Michael Schemel, Director of Development at IRSC, Coach Jackson, and Assistant Coach Phillips for their dedication and thoughtful planning. Their commitment ensured that the event provided unforgettable experiences for our student athletes, whose enthusiasm and engagement were truly inspired by the IRSC team.”

Event Partners:

Boys & Girls Club of Indian River County, Gifford Youth Achievement Center, Indian River County Main Library, Indian River State College, iThink Financial, Laura Riding Jackson Foundation, Rotary Club of Vero Beach, Substance Abuse Awareness Center, The Learning Alliance-Moonshot Moment, The Mental Health Collaborative of Indian River County, Treasure Coast Food Bank, Treasure Coast Technical College, United Way of Indian River County, Wawa, Whole Family Health Center, Youth Guidance.

Learn more at crossovermission.com. For further information, interviews, or media inquiries, please contact: Triana Romero, Director of Development, 772.257.5400, [email protected]. Your support and coverage of this important initiative are greatly appreciated.

Martin County High School, South Fork High School Seniors Named 2025 National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists
Martin County School District

Two Martin County High School seniors and two South Fork High School seniors have been named Semifinalists in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program. The National Merit Scholarship Program is a renowned academic competition for recognition and scholarships that began in 1955.

The program honors high school students who demonstrate exceptional academic ability. Semifinalists are selected based on their performance on the PSAT/NMSQT, which identifies the top 1% of students nationwide.

Over 1.3 million juniors in about 21,000 high schools entered the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2023 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®).

More than 16,000 students were selected as semifinalists in this year's competition.

To become a finalist, a semifinalist must complete several additional requirements. According to the National Merit Scholarship Program, about 95% of semifinalists are expected to become finalists and receive a Certificate of Merit.

Congratulations to the following seniors who were named Semifinalists:

Ricardo Rivera, Martin County High School

Logan Swanner, Martin County High School

Emanuele Cavallaro, South Fork High School

Safid Alam, South Fork High School

VGESS Rolls Out the Green Carpet

Article by: Donia Saadah
VGESS Faculty and Staff are thrilled to kick off another amazing year! Village Green’s incredible World Changers strutted down the green carpet, greeted by the cheerful cheers of teachers and staff celebrating their return! We are ready to make this year unforgettable, packed with learning, fun, and adventure. Here’s to new beginnings and a fantastic journey ahead!

Fairlawn Fourth Graders Tackle Math

Article by: Heather Ricksecker
Fourth-grade students in Mrs. Ascani’s math class participated in a stand-up, hand-up, pair-up activity to discuss place value relationships among different numbers. Students found partners and had to explain their reasoning behind the relationships they identified between numbers.

Indian River State College Earns 10-Year Reaffirmation of Accreditation by SACSCOC

Fort Pierce – Indian River State College has earned a 10-year reaffirmation of accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (“SACSCOC”), an institutional accreditor for quality assurance in higher education. The College was reaffirmed with no further action or reporting required.

SACSCOC’s reaffirmation of accreditation is a mark of Indian River State College’s institutional quality and integrity. It signals to students, parents and the public that the College meets established standards and is dedicated to providing a quality educational experience.

“We are proud of Indian River State College’s reaffirmation of accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, Indian River State College president. “It validates the wonderful work of faculty, staff, and leadership in upholding the highest standards of academic success and affirms our commitment to providing an exceptional educational experience.”

Reaffirmation is a rigorous process that requires the institution to demonstrate compliance with 73 standards covering all aspects of the institution’s operation – governance, policies and procedures, faculty, staff, administration, curriculum, student services, and finance. The institution is evaluated by an off-site, peer review committee, and on-site review committee, and final review by the SACSCOC Board of Trustees. To gain or maintain an accreditation, institutions must comply with SACSCOC policies, procedures, and standards.

“Kudos to all of the faculty and staff at Indian River State College on the reaffirmation of your accreditation,” said Dr. Belle S. Wheelan, SACSCOC president. “It is obvious that all of you work tirelessly every day to provide a high-quality education to the students, and this accomplishment validates those efforts!”

SACSCOC is the regional commission responsible for accrediting degree-granting institutions in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and some institutions in Latin America, according to its website. The organization’s mission is to assure the educational quality and improve the effectiveness of its member institutions. Institutional accreditors provide consumer protection by providing the public with an assurance of the quality of the institution and, subsequently, degree earned.

"Indian River State College is very proud of its efforts to improve the lives of our students and to enhance our community," said Dr. Angela Browning, vice president of research and institutional effectiveness. "Faculty, staff and administrators spent two years documenting compliance with the SACSCOC standards and appreciate the organization's validation through reaffirmation."

As a leader in education and innovation, Indian River State College transforms lives by offering high-quality, affordable and accessible education through traditional and remote delivery. Indian River State College is working diligently to fulfill the mission of the Florida State College System, providing access to high-quality, affordable academic and career educational programs that maximize student learning and success, develop a globally competitive workforce and respond to diverse state and community needs.

Indian River State College was granted accreditation by SACSCOC on January 1, 1965. Its next SACSCOC reaffirmation is anticipated 2034.

Martin County School District 2024 - 2025 School Calendar

St. Lucie County School District 2024 - 2025 School Calendar