Who We Are
Shaping the Future Together
Our work is rooted in ensuring every student achieves academic success and is prepared for life after high school. Whether pursuing higher education or skillfully joining the workforce, we provide students with the support and resources they need to reach their full potential and thrive.
We aim to be a model of excellence, demonstrating the positive impact that arises when business leaders and the community invest in education.
Our Story
Pinellas Education Foundation was established in 1986 by our Founder and Chairman Emeritus, Dr. Gus A. Stavros after he started a local economic education program called Enterprise Village. In the years since we have grown and championed many innovative programs to increase student achievement. A few signature programs include Enterprise Village, Finance Park, our Take Stock in Children mentoring program and Pinellas Early Literacy Initiative (PELI).
We have raised more than $200 million to support students and teachers in Pinellas County Schools. For every dollar our partners invest, 91 cents is directly used to help students and teachers flourish.
We have a platinum seal of transparency from GuideStar, a four-star rating from Charity Navigator, and ranked the #1 Education Foundation according to a national study featured in Education Week.
Our Mission
Our mission is to accelerate educational achievement for all students through the effective mobilization of innovation, relationships and resources.
Our Vision
Our vision is that every student will be prepared for life after high school, whether the choice is to attend college, to enter the workforce, or to obtain technical training.
Our Beliefs
Equity for All
We believe everyone deserves a high-quality education.
Value of Public Education
We believe that public education is a primary determinant of our county’s economic prosperity and future success.
Multiple Pathways
We believe in preparing students for the variety of postsecondary and career pathways available to them.
Innovation
We believe in serving as a catalyst that activates new, more effective solutions to some of education’s most pressing issues.
Continuous Improvement
We believe in learning from our work and using these discoveries to inform the best solutions and investments in education.
Careers
We believe our mission only propels forward when we have great talent working collaboratively. We offer an excellent benefits package, 11 paid holidays, time off between Christmas and New Years Day, accrued Paid Time Off (PTO), and more. Many positions offer a hybrid schedule upon completion of a 90-day probationary period.
Mentoring Impact
“What truly transformed my experience was the mentor I gained through Take Stock in Children. Mentorship, for me, has been a lifeline. My mentor served as a guiding light, offering wisdom and support at every critical juncture, especially during the college application process.”
– Vidi L., Take Stock in Children Mentoring Program Alumni
Teacher Impact
“The work you do in uplifting educators makes such a difference in our ability to inspire, innovate, and serve our students. I am beyond grateful for all that you’ve done to support me, and I will continue to pour that gratitude back into the work I do every day.”
– Natalie S., Visual Arts Teacher
Mentoring Impact
“My mentor has been an outstanding person for me throughout high school, she has offered support, encouragement, and wisdom since the beginning that has helped me navigate challenges, set goals and grow as a person. Her guidance, serving as a light, shaping my confidence and aspirations, inspiring me to strive for excellence and to believe in my potential.”
– Valerie O., Take Stock in Children Mentoring Program, Class of 2025
Scholarship Impact
“The support from the scholarship program has been a huge source of motivation for me. Knowing that others believe in my potential and are willing to invest in my education has inspired me to work even harder toward my goals.”
– Kelvin A., Scholarship Recipient
Classroom Impact
“The Literacy Magazine project I received funding for impacts so many students at our school. Students can submit a poem, short story, flash fiction, artwork, or photos for publishing consideration. They anxiously await the magazine’s arrival, and when it does, the excitement is palpable. On behalf of all students and staff members who love to read students’ original writing and see their creative art, thank you very much.”
Teresa Z., Classroom Grant Recipient
Become a Mentor
or Volunteer
You can help students build a solid foundation of values, establish goals, improve their academic and life skills, while developing self-esteem and confidence.
Partners in Impact
