Florida Department of Education Commissioner's Business Recognition Awards Honorees
Three organizations have been named the School District of Palm Beach County’s nominees for the 2024-2025 Florida Education Commissioner’s Business Recognition Awards (CBRA). This award recognizes outstanding business education leaders and community partnerships that have shown the most commitment to bringing positive change and implementing bold, innovative approaches to improve the academic performance of students in Florida’s education system and communities. The School District of Palm Beach County has three nominees who will be submitted to the State.
Florida Blue has partnered with a dozen elementary and middle schools and multiple District departments to provide funding for a wide range of school and District events and activities including family nights, field days, and Professional Development Days (PDD), the District’s 2025 Volunteer and Business Partner Awards event, and more. Perhaps one of the most powerful contributions this year has been the donation of funding for two new therapy dogs, Leo and Athena, for the District’s School Police. The dogs have already contributed significantly to the mental health of students and staff.
HCA Florida Healthcare has been a dedicated partner in supporting the health and well-being of our student-athletes and academy programs for several years, making a lasting impact both in the classroom and on the field. Their generosity and commitment to the School District has helped provide essential resources that enhance student safety through the provision of Guardian caps for helmets, performance, and overall program sustainability in health-related and culinary arts academy programs across multiple schools. HCA Florida Healthcare provides financial and in-kind support, as well as giving hours of time and expertise to benefit students and staff both at school and at HCA facilities. Perhaps their most renowned contribution is their support of Thank a Teacher, now in its fifth year. The weekly prize to teachers has grown to $350. The teacher is surprised in their classroom and receives a presentation of the check by an HCA CEO, with the principal and the teacher’s students on hand as well. Everything is captured in a video produced by The Education Network.
Junior Achievement of the Palm Beaches & Treasure Coast is an exemplary partner in preparing Palm Beach County students for future success. Their collaborative efforts have provided valuable career exploration opportunities for our high school students, specifically our students in grades 11 and 12. By partnering to host regional career fairs at local Palm Beach State College campuses, they created a dynamic bridge between education and the professional world.
Recognizing the importance of accessibility, Junior Achievement also generously contributed $50,000 to offset District transportation costs. This crucial support ensured that every 11th and 12th grade student, regardless of background, had the opportunity to participate. These JA-hosted career fairs showcased the power of community partnerships, bringing together a diverse range of employers eager to connect with our students. Each event was carefully designed to expose students to various career paths and inspire them to envision their potential and the possibility of fulfilling their aspirations.
The educational connections and resources provided by nominees for the Florida Business Commissioner’s Business Awards help Florida school districts gain a competitive edge in providing enhanced services to the students they serve.