FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, May 23, 2025
(EON: Enhanced Online News)– Gain: PICTURES INCLUDED
Foundation for Lee County Public Schools Holds 34th Annual Partners in Education / State of Our Schools Breakfast
Fort Myers, FL – On Friday, May 16, The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools, in collaboration with The School District of Lee County, successfully hosted its 34th Annual Partners in Education / State of Our Schools Breakfast, welcoming business leaders, educators, and community partners to celebrate collaboration in public education and highlight the progress of the School District of Lee County.
The event took place at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, where guests gathered for a morning filled with insight, recognition, and inspiration. This year’s theme was inspired by the beloved animated film Inside Out, symbolizing the emotions, challenges, and triumphs that shape public education. The morning began with a powerful presentation of the colors by the Mariner High School JROTC Color Guard, commanded by Major Bryan Williams, a 2021 Golden Apple Teacher. This was followed by a beautiful rendition of the national anthem, sung by Gianna Tregali of Cape Coral High School.
Attendees were greeted with a vibrant atmosphere, as key figures from the district and community, embraced the theme by dressing as characters from the movie. Even the Superintendent, Dr. Denise Carlin, joined in the fun, helping bring the theme to life while reminding guests of the importance of emotional awareness and community connection in education. Dr. Carlin delivered a powerful address highlighting current district initiatives, student and school achievements, and the overall state of education in Lee County.
Adding energy and heart to the celebration, the event featured a dynamic performance by the Harns Marsh Middle School Dance Company, under the direction of Meredith Molseed. The program concluded on a high note with a spirited and crowd-pleasing performance by the East Lee County High School Jaguars Marching Band, under the direction of Tony Allen & Osmany Escoto.
“This breakfast is always a great way to end the school year by recognizing all of the great business and community partners along with volunteers who help to make sure our students and teachers have everything they need to achieve their highest potential,” said Marshall T. Bower, Esq., President & CEO of The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools. “The atmosphere is always exciting, fun and a celebration of public education.”
The event proudly recognized several individuals and organizations for their exceptional dedication and contributions to public education. The following honorees received awards for their outstanding service in 2025:
2025 Volunteer and Partner Awards
- Outstanding School Youth Volunteer Award
Gavin Dimaria - Outstanding School Volunteer Award
Jeff Rennison, 2025 Florida Department of Education Volunteer of The Year Finalist - Outstanding School Senior Volunteer Award
Michael Pedersen - Family & Community Involvement Awards
Dr. William Glover, Impact Franklin Park
Dorothy Plumb, The Sanibel School Community Fund - Business Partner of the Year Awards
Culver’s of North Fort Myers – accepted by Miguel Carmona
Downtown House of Pizza – accepted by Jason Kohn
The Foundation expresses its gratitude to all sponsors, attendees, and volunteers who made the event possible and reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to enhancing public education throughout Lee County. Special thanks go to our major sponsors—B&I Contractors, Lee Health, Suncoast Credit Union, Lake Michigan Credit Union, and Gulfpoint Construction Company—for their outstanding support. We also extend sincere appreciation to all our contributing sponsors, whose generosity helps make events like this possible and drives our mission forward.
About The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools
The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools, Inc. is a private 501(C)3 organization established in 1986. Its mission is to enhance and enrich the quality of public education in Lee County for students and educators through programs, resources, and experiences made possible through corporate, individual, and educational partnerships. Find us online at www.leeschoolfoundation.org, on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X.
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Media Contact:
Marshall T. Bower, Esq.
President and CEO
Tel. (239) 337-0433
Marshall@LeeSchoolFoundation.org
