The Community Organization Award recognizes a nonprofit or community-driven initiative that has made a transformative impact on education, mentorship, and student success. This year, we proudly honor the Public Education Partnership (PEP) of Polk County, a trailblazing organization dedicated to empowering students, supporting educators, and strengthening public schools.
About Public Education Partnership (PEP) of Polk County
The Public Education Partnership of Winter Haven, Inc. (PEP) is a grassroots 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a mission to enhance education quality, improve student performance, and foster community engagement. Through advocacy, strategic partnerships, and hands-on programs, PEP ensures that Winter Haven’s schools provide every student with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.
Comprising educators, business leaders, and community members, PEP’s leadership team shares a passionate commitment to student achievement, working collaboratively to bridge the gap between families, schools, and local stakeholders. Their impact-driven approach has reshaped educational opportunities for countless children.
Groundbreaking Initiatives & Community Impact
📚 PEP Education Center – Providing vital student and family support through:
✔️ Remedial & Enrichment Programs – After-school and summer programs designed to enhance academic success for students in grades K-5.
✔️ Camp Ready – Preparing incoming kindergarten students for a strong academic foundation.
✔️ Parent/Child Interaction Classes – Strengthening family engagement in education through interactive evening sessions.
✔️ Financial Literacy Classes – Equipping parents with essential financial management skills to build long-term stability.
✔️ Community Feeding Site – Partnering with Polk County Public Schools to provide meals and support to families in need.
🏫 Expanding Academic Excellence – PEP has been instrumental in advancing curriculum and learning opportunities:
✔️ The Cambridge Academy at Denison Middle School – Establishing the first middle school in Polk County to offer this prestigious advanced curriculum.
✔️ After-School Tutoring Centers – Offering academic support programs in Northeast Winter Haven to help students excel.
✔️ Career Connection Mentoring Program – Providing students with career exploration and workforce readiness opportunities to prepare them for future success.
🎵 Strengthening School Programs & Extracurriculars – PEP believes in fostering holistic student development by advocating for:
🎶 Music & The Arts – Enhancing creative education programs to inspire and engage students.
🏀 Middle School Athletics – Expanding athletic opportunities to promote teamwork, discipline, and leadership in young students.
📖 Closing the Literacy Gap – Recognizing the critical importance of early literacy, PEP has prioritized efforts to ensure all students are reading at grade level by third grade, implementing targeted reading intervention programs and resource development for schools to bridge learning gaps.
A Lasting Commitment to Education
Through collaborative partnerships, innovative programs, and a deep commitment to listening to the needs of educators, students, and families, PEP has transformed Winter Haven’s public schools and continues to work toward solutions that create a more equitable and successful learning environment for all students.
A Well-Deserved Honor
Tonight, we proudly recognize Public Education Partnership of Polk County for their relentless dedication to improving education, fostering student success, and ensuring that every child has access to the best possible learning opportunities.
Their impact is seen not just in the schools they serve, but in the bright futures of the students they uplift.
To reserve a ticket and learn more about the Voices 2025, please visit https://www.stepn2ourlane.com/events-1/voices-music-for-a-cause
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