Santa Rosa District Schools is thrilled to announce the award of a $9 million Triumph Gulf Coast grant to fund the establishment of a cutting-edge STEAM-powered Career and Technical Education (CTE) Learning Hub, aptly named the Santa Rosa Center for Innovation.
This grant will significantly enhance the educational landscape in our community and further our commitment to equipping students with essential skills for a successful future.
“The award of this grant marks a pivotal moment in our mission to provide world-class education opportunities for our students,” says Superintendent Dr. Karen Barber. The Santa Rosa Center for Innovation will serve as a beacon of learning excellence, bridging the gap between education and the workforce, and preparing students for the jobs of tomorrow.
The $9 million Triumph Gulf Coast grant will provide vital funding for various aspects of project, including staffing and salaries; supplies, equipment, and software procurement; industry certification curriculum and testing materials; professional development opportunities; transportation; and a Think Tank Mobile Innovation Lab. Lastly, it will contribute to building renovations, building lease, and property purchase, enabling us to establish a transformative and sustainable center for CTE and STEAM education.
Coordinator of Workforce Education, Jennifer Hines, says, “We are excited about giving all of our students the opportunity to participate in CTE.” “Many times, students are unable to participate due to other commitments and not having room in their schedule. This space would provide these students opportunities after school, in the evening times, and on the weekends,” says Hines.
Key Highlights of the Santa Rosa Center for Innovation:
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: The Santa Rosa Center for Innovation will boast state-of-the-art classrooms, labs, and workshops equipped with the latest technology and resources, creating an ideal environment for experiential learning.
- Comprehensive STEAM Curriculum: The center will offer a comprehensive STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) curriculum, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the demands of the modern workforce.
- Industry Partnerships: Collaboration with local businesses and industries will provide students with real-world experiences, internships, and mentorship opportunities, bridging the gap between education and career pathways.
- Enhanced Enrollment: The center aims to attract and engage students of all ages, from elementary to high school levels, fostering a lifelong love for learning and career exploration.
- Certification Attainment: Students will have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications, increasing their competitiveness in the job market and providing a clear pathway to future success.
Santa Rosa District Schools has a longstanding commitment to academic excellence, and the Santa Rosa Center for Innovation represents a significant milestone in our journey to prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. This Triumph Grant underscores the dedication and vision of our educational leaders and community partners who share in our mission to empower the workforce of the future.
Charlin Knight, Director of Workforce Education at Santa Rosa District Schools, expressed her enthusiasm for this transformative project, stating, “Our goals for this center will be to increase career awareness and opportunities for place-based learning in our community, increase collaboration among business, industry, and education, and increase enrollment and industry certification attainment among all CTE programs in Santa Rosa County Schools at the elementary, middle, and high school levels.”
As acquisition and renovation of this groundbreaking educational facility commences, we look forward to the continued support and engagement of our community, ensuring that together, we provide our students with the skills and knowledge needed for graduation and a prosperous future.
