The Florida Department of Education recognized on March 9 the achievements of outstanding 11th-grade students in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics during the Sunshine State Scholars Conference. The two-day event brought together 111 high-achieving students from school districts across Florida to celebrate their academic accomplishments and connect them with higher education institutions and career opportunities in STEM fields. Ten students were also awarded scholarships supported by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation and the Florida Education Foundation.
The recognition aims to highlight the importance of STEM education for Florida’s future workforce. By connecting talented students with resources and opportunities, the department seeks to encourage continued excellence in these critical fields.
“I am incredibly proud of this year’s Sunshine State Scholars. They represent Florida’s brightest young minds in STEM,” said Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas. “Sunshine State Scholars not only honors their academic excellence but also connects them with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive in higher education and future STEM careers right here in Florida. These students are the innovators and leaders of tomorrow, and we are excited to support their academic journey.”
Each scholar was recognized at the conference, with ten receiving a one-year scholarship to attend one of Florida’s top-ranked higher education institutions. The program was hosted in partnership with the Florida Education Foundation, providing families an opportunity to engage with representatives from state universities, colleges, and independent institutions while learning about college funding options and postsecondary pathways available throughout Florida.
The department operates from its headquarters at 325 West Gaines Street in Tallahassee, according to its official website. It partners with parents, educators, and communities to boost student achievement across all levels—from early learning through higher education—as outlined on its official website. The agency oversees public education statewide, administering programs for K-12 schools as well as higher learning and career development initiatives according to its official website.
Support for academic resources, school choice options, and professional training is also provided by the department as noted on its official website. Through these efforts, it works alongside parents, educators, and communities to advance student success throughout Florida according to its official website.
