The Florida Department of Education recognized 111 outstanding 11th-grade students in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics during the Sunshine State Scholars Conference on March 9. The two-day event brought together scholars from school districts across Florida to celebrate their academic achievements and connect them with higher education institutions and career opportunities in STEM fields.
The program also awarded scholarships to ten students, made possible through support from the Florida Prepaid College Foundation and the Florida Education Foundation. Each recipient received a one-year scholarship to attend one of Florida’s top-ranked higher education institutions.
“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.”
The conference was hosted in partnership with the Florida Education Foundation. Students and their families had opportunities to engage with representatives from the State University System of Florida, the Florida College System, as well as independent colleges and universities. The event provided information about college funding, academic pathways, and postsecondary options available throughout the state.
The Florida Department of Education operates from its headquarters at 325 West Gaines Street in Tallahassee, according to its official website. The department partners with parents, educators, and communities to boost student achievement and foster a comprehensive education system from early learning through higher education as outlined on its website. It oversees public education across all levels within the state according to its official site, working alongside stakeholders to advance student success according to its website.
Support for students includes academic resources, school choice options, and professional training for both educators and learners as noted by the department. The agency administers programs for K-12 schools as well as higher education and career development initiatives according to its official website.
By highlighting these scholars’ achievements, officials say they hope more students will pursue advanced studies in science, technology, engineering or mathematics—fields seen as important for meeting future workforce needs.
