Fort Myers, FL – On Friday, May 8, The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools, in collaboration with The School District of Lee County, successfully hosted its 35th 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, “Rockin’ the Rules of School,” brought a fun and energetic rock n’ roll atmosphere to the celebration, highlighting the creativity, passion, and spirit that drive public education in Lee County.
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 Victor Galarza of Lehigh Senior High School.
Attendees were welcomed into a lively environment as select district and community leaders embraced the “Rockin’ the Rules of School” theme. Key figures, including Foundation Board members and Superintendent Dr. Denise Carlin, wore outfits inspired by different musical decades, helping bring the rock n’ roll atmosphere to life throughout the venue. Dr. Carlin later delivered an inspiring address highlighting current district initiatives, student and school achievements, and the overall state of education in Lee County.
Adding to the celebration, the event featured a special performance by the Lee County Saxophone Quartet under the direction of Sami Maddox. The program concluded on a high note with a spirited performance by the Riverdale Marching Raiders under the direction of Timothy Hunt.
“The School District of Lee County is fortunate to have the support of the business community and the community at large,” said Marshall T. Bower, President & CEO of The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools. “When the community engages with our students and teachers it is a win-win for everyone! Our students will become our future workforce and community leaders. It
is important to recognize and celebrate the business and ocmmunity volunteers who understand the connection between education and our greater community.”
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 2026:
2026 Volunteer and Partner Awards
· Outstanding School Volunteer of the Year Award Jimey Moad (North Fort Myers High)
· Family & Community Involvement Awards AMVETS Post 81 – accepted by Carly Harkins (Various Schools district wide) United Way – accepted by Hannah Pelle (Various schools district wide)
· Business Partner of the Year Awards Skanska – accepted by Trenton LeBlanc (Ray V. Pottorf Elementary) Rack Room Shoes – accepted by Tracy Fitzgerald (Patriot Elementary)
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, Wright Construction 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.