Danny Federico
reporter3.riverbendnews@gmail.com
The Suwannee County School Board has entered into a new partnership with Goodwill Industries of North Florida, Inc., to enhance educational opportunities through the Take Stock in Children program. The agreement was approved during the board's regular meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 28, with a memorandum of understanding and a resolution declaring Goodwill as the sole source provider for the program's services within the district.
Board member Leslie Fry abstained from voting on the agreement due to a conflict of interest, as she remains employed by Goodwill as a student services coordinator. "Prior to being elected as a school board member, I was employed by Goodwill and provided services for Take Stock in Children for years," Fry clarified in regard to her comment regarding her abstaining. "I remain employed by Goodwill at the time of this agency action."
The Take Stock in Children program, managed by Goodwill Industries of North Florida, is a mentoring initiative designed to support students from eighth grade through high school. Prior to the vote, and at board member Ronald White's request, Fry explained that students enrolled in the program are paired with mentors within 30 days of joining and are required to meet regularly with both their mentor and a program coach. To remain eligible, students must maintain a minimum 2.0 grade point average (GPA), stay drug and alcohol-free, and fulfill mentorship requirements. Upon successful completion of the program, students are awarded a two-year Florida Prepaid College Scholarship, which is valid for up to 10 years.
Currently, Fry stated that the program supports 74 students in Suwannee County—60 at Suwannee High School and 14 at Branford High School—and plans to add 13 more students in the coming month. The program aims to prepare participants for college, career or vocational training, with an emphasis on pathways such as RIVEROAK Technical College.
Funding for the Take Stock in Children program comes from a combination of Goodwill store revenues, private donations and corporate contributions. "Ninety-six cents of every dollar goes to fund education for students and adults," Fry stated. "For children, it's Take Stock in Children; for adults, it's the STEP program for those needing a second chance—whether they were incarcerated or need a GED."
An added benefit of the program is its matching donation structure. "Whatever donation is made to Take Stock in Children, the program matches it dollar for dollar. It's a win-win," Fry said. Scholarships are funded at a cost of $3,500 each, covering tuition for college or trade school programs.
The board proceeded to unanimously approve both the memorandum of understanding and its accompanying resolution, officially recognizing Goodwill Industries of North Florida as the sole source provider for Take Stock in Children services in Suwannee County.
Community members interested in supporting the program were encouraged to consider becoming mentors. "If you would like to be a mentor, it's an hour a month—just 15 sessions a year," Fry added. "You can make a real difference in the life of a student."