News

Appreciate Teachers, Before It's Too Late

A friend of mine has been teaching fine arts for nearly a decade. His passion for the subject is undeniable, and like many teachers in specialized fields, he cares deeply about his work—often more than most of his students. So, you can imagine the immense joy he felt when one of his former students emailed him, sharing how a single lesson he taught changed the course of her life. That one message carried a value far beyond words, a reminder that teachers can have a life-changing impact. Yet, despite moments like these, according to Gallup,

only 25% of teachers say they’ve received recognition for their work in the last seven days"

Applications Open for Parents Who Lead

Parents and caregivers interested in becoming better advocates for their children are invited to apply for Parents Who Lead, a 20-week program of Duval County Public Schools, the Jacksonville Public Education Fund and Kids Hope Alliance. 

Teachers nominated for VyStar 2025 Duval County Teacher of the Year

The search for the 2025 VyStar Duval County Teacher of the Year has begun! Principals from nearly 180 Duval County schools nominated a teacher to be named the Teacher of the Year for Duval County. The 2025 VyStar Duval County Teacher of the Year will be announced at the EDDY Awards, presented by the Jacksonville Public Education Fund (JPEF), Saturday, January 18, 2025. 

From School Supplies to Community Connection: How One Church’s Simple Gesture Sparked Lasting Support for Local Educators

It all started with donation of school supplies in 2022. The parishioners of The Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd in Riverside wanted to bring back a sense of community connection and support by helping our local elementary school as we made our way out of COVID-era restrictions. So, we started with one simple gesture each fall of donating school supplies.

Cindy Edelman Excellence in Teaching Fellows apply lessons from Finland to classrooms

Visit to Finland schools highlights importance of play in learning

Teachers invited to complete Intent to Apply form for Cindy Edelman Excellence in Teaching Fellowship

The Cindy Edelman Excellence in Teaching Fellowship is open for Duval County public school teachers who want to pursue a professional learning experience of their own design.  Eligible teachers, either individually or as a team, are encouraged to submit their intent to apply forms by Oct. 15, 2024.