We believe that all students should leave high school ready for the world. Whether they pursue a college education, enroll in career technical training or start a job, our Foundation seeks to impact graduates regardless of the path they choose.
Career Technical Education
The Academies of Pinellas programs offer students rigorous, relevant and challenging academic courses to prepare for for in-demand jobs. Students combine traditional coursework with technical training to earn high school credit, college credit and certifications for industries such as Trade and Industrial; Business and Marketing; Family and Consumer Sciences; Health Occupations; Public Safety and Security; and Technology.
100+ Certifications available
11,850 Total certifications earned
5 % High schools awarded Academy of Distinction Honors
Take Stock in Children
This statewide scholarship program helps low-income youth—many from minority families—escape the cycle of poverty through education. But Take Stock in Children offers much more than college scholarships: students are paired with mentors who provide inspiration and guidance, college success coaches and school-based ambassadors who monitor their progress and enhance their learning. These services begin in middle school, continue through high school, and include students’ transition into college and career.
200+ Scholarship opportunities
$ 3.7 M Awarded each year
“If I didn’t go to college, I wouldn’t have ever seen or been exposed to a world outside of my neighborhood in Pinellas County. This program has not only opened doors for me—it’s brought me through them!”
“My mother has Parkinson’s disease. That’s why I want to do research on neurological disorders and develop technology to treat them. Take Stock in Children has connected me with a wonderful mentor who is like a second mother to me. The program has also provided the funds I need to attend Washington University to study neuroscience.”
Senior Scholarships
The Pinellas Education Foundation offers numerous scholarships to help students achieve their educational goals and dreams. These scholarships range from $500 to $5,000 and are available to high school graduating seniors in the Pinellas County Public School system. Students only need to fill out one application, and their needs and future interests are matched with nearly 100 scholarship opportunities.
$ 682 K Awarded last year
Walker’s Rising Stars
Created by Dr. Jeffrey Walker and the Pinellas Education Foundation, Walker’s Rising Stars Scholarship Program is a yearlong initiative that helps students hone their audition, portfolio and performance skills. Participants in Walker’s Rising Stars compete for college scholarships in six categories: Culinary Arts, Dance, Instrumental, Theater, Visual Arts and Vocal Performance.
$ 900 K+ Scholarships awarded
Elevating Excellence assists high-achieving students and their families, particularly low-income and first generation college students, with personalized college and career counseling and additional college preparedness supports. In partnership with Pinellas County Schools, College and Career Centers program has expanded to include all 17 Pinellas high schools.
Student Internships aim to ensure that rising seniors graduate prepared to enter the workforce with real world experience. The program prepares students for the workforce through a combination of a summer internship, career readiness skills training and a financial literacy workshop.
