Thanks to a generous $7,981.15 grant from Florida Power & Light Company (FPL), Investing in Kids (INK!) and the St. Johns County School District (SJCSD) are expanding professional learning opportunities for local STEM educators. The funding is part of FPL’s EmPOWERing STEM Educators initiative, a statewide program focused on strengthening math and science instruction through teacher-led collaboration and classroom innovation.
Empowering Educators Through Peer-Led Learning
This peer-to-peer professional development model brings educators together to share best practices, develop standards-aligned strategies, and explore innovative approaches to teaching STEM. The goal? To enhance instruction, improve student outcomes, and support teacher retention by fostering a strong professional community.
“The support from FPL allows us to invest directly in our educators’ professional growth and sends a strong message that their work matters,” said Cathy Newman, Executive Director of INK! “When teachers feel valued and are given meaningful opportunities to collaborate and innovate, it not only improves instruction—it helps us retain great teachers in our classrooms.”
A Collaborative Approach to STEM Success
In collaboration with SJCSD, INK! is implementing a customized peer-led program designed to equip teachers with tools to strengthen science and math instruction and engage students in dynamic, hands-on learning.
FPL’s partnership with the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations has brought this initiative to communities across the state. Since 2018, FPL has invested more than $600,000 in professional development for STEM educators, underscoring their long-standing commitment to education and workforce development.
“For the last 100 years, FPL has been committed to powering strong communities,” said Sarah Marmion, FPL senior manager of education outreach. “By supporting our teachers through these grants, we’re empowering them with the resources they need to inspire students and cultivate the problem-solvers and innovators of tomorrow.”
More Ways FPL Supports Classrooms
In addition to professional development grants, FPL also supports Florida educators through its STEM Classroom Makeover Grant program. Through the Classroom Makeover Grant, FPL awards $50,000 to selected teachers to upgrade their classrooms with cutting-edge technology and hands-on materials. STEM Educator, Justin Matthews, of R.J. Murray Middle School in St. Augustine is a proud recipient of a 2025 Classroom Makeover Grant. Mr. Matthews will be unveiling his renovated STEM classroom when students return to school in August.
Building a Brighter Future Together
At INK!, we’re grateful to FPL and the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations for their continued support of our educators. Together, we’re building a stronger future—one classroom at a time.
Learn more about FPL’s education initiatives at FPL.com/Education, and stay connected with INK! at ink-stjohns.org.
