Save Our Programs

The Problem

The failure of the 2008 and 2009 Florida Legislatures to properly fund public education has resulted in budget cuts throughout the Seminole County Public Schools. With much effort, the School Board was able to budget almost $135,000 to keep the Environmental Studies Center open with one day for fifth grade. However, Fifth Grade is a two-day program. The cry became, “Save the Center Programs!”

The Solution

An additional $25,000 is needed yearly to complete the Fifth Grade Program (i.e. The Mud Walk!). Add $41,000 for first grade.

At School Board Budget Meetings, community support was well-evident for the Environmental Studies Center programs. While appreciation was shown for the School Board’s support, it became clear that money is needed that must come from the community in order to bring back full programming.

A Funding Committee was established in June of 20o8. From this mighty effort came funds to fully schedule fifth grade programs and a few first grades for 2008-2009 and the full Fifth Grade Program and a few first grade classes for 2009-2010. In March of 2009, the School Board voted to raise the per-day fee from $3.00 to $5.00 to help offset the cost of the programs. This, with the Federal stimulus money alleviating some budget pressure, enabled the Board to fund the Center as in the previous year, with Friends of the Environmental Studies Center raising the necessary funds for two part-time assistants.

How can you help?

Click the tabs above to join a Sub-Committee! Come to Fundraising Events. Donate funds to Save the Center Programs!

This is only leg one on what looks like a long journey. Please join us as we strive to bring back all programming in the future. Help us offer full programming to both Fifth and First Grades for our students.