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As summer draws to a close and our classrooms come alive once again, I am thrilled to welcome you all back for another exciting academic year! Together, we are entering this season with energy, optimism, and a powerful commitment to student success. This year marks a remarkable milestone for our organization. Through your dedication and collaboration, our engagement has reached over 25 high schools, technical colleges, and higher education institutions, more than tripling our impact from previous years! This extraordinary growth means that thousands more students across our community will have access to valuable resources, opportunities, and support as they pursue their educational journeys. This achievement would not be possible without our passionate staff, inspiring educators, devoted members, and active partners. It’s your vision and teamwork that have allowed us to extend our reach and make an even greater difference. As we embark on this new academic year, let’s celebrate how far we’ve come, and let’s keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible for our students. I am inspired by what we can accomplish together and look forward to a year of learning, achievement, and connection. Best wishes to everyone for an amazing back-to-school season!  NEW CONNECTED POLK MEMBERS Rick Garcia | President & CEO, Gulf Coast Avionics Rick Garcia is the President/CEO of Gulf Coast Avionics Corp. of Lakeland, FL. Born and raised in Miami, he went to school at George T. Baker Aviation School in Miami and graduated from South Miami Senior High School. Served in the U.S. Air Force from 1978-82 at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa and worked on avionics for the F-4 and F-16 aircraft. In 1984, he founded Gulf Coast Avionics Corp. in Lakeland, Florida, and in 1991, founded Pacific Coast Avionics Corp. in Aurora, Oregon. Rick serves as Chairman of The Board at The Aerospace Center for Excellence and is the Founder and President of the Central Florida Aerospace Academy Foundation. Rick founded Central Florida Aerospace Academy and the Lakeland Aeroclub, both located at Lakeland Linder International Airport. Rick serves on the United Way of Central Florida Board, the Salvation Army Board, and the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce Board.  Adam Bourgeois | Operations Manager, A.D. Morgan Adam Bourgeois is a seasoned operations and business development executive with over two decades of experience in fabrication, construction, and engineering. Currently serving as Operations Manager at The AD Morgan Corporation, Adam is responsible for project oversight and execution, budget and financial management of AD Morgan projects, team leadership and coordination, risk management, and stakeholder communication. Adam is recognized for his ability to build high-performing teams, implement efficient systems, and foster long-term client relationships.  NEW CONNECTED POLK STRATEGIC PARTNERS Dr. Kris Newman-Lake, EdD | Principal & CEO, Cypress Junction Dr. Kris Newman-Lake, EdD, has over 20 years of experience in education. Kris has held a variety of instructional and leadership roles in traditional and alternative settings, both as a classroom teacher and school/district administrator. She is committed to continuous learning and brings both professional expertise and personal insight as a dedicated wife and mother navigating the educational system.  Theresa Evans | Executive Director, Pace Center for Girls - Polk County Theresa Evans is a dedicated leader with over 20 years of experience in education, nonprofit management, and community engagement. As a psychology graduate of Alaska Pacific University and a former at-risk youth herself, she is passionate about empowering girls through trauma-informed, holistic education and mental health services. “Pace provides girls and young women an opportunity for a better future through education, counseling, training, and advocacy.” CONNECTED POLK NEWS AND UPDATES
Coming to Lakeland this August: The 3rd Annual Lakelander Education Edition, presented in partnership with ConnectED Polk, showcasing education news that celebrates our schools and informs the Lakeland community! Check out last year's issue here. “ConnectED Polk Supports Polk RISE Program”. Thank You to GiveWell Community Foundation! ConnectED Polk, Inc. is thrilled to announce that we have received a $5,000 grant from the George W. Jenkins Fund within the GiveWell Community Foundation through the Impact Polk grant program. These essential funds will support the Polk RISE! Program, which empowers high-achieving, low-income, first-generation students, helping them become the first in their families to go to college. About Polk RISE! Launched in the 2023-24 school year, Polk RISE! serves over 400 middle and high school students (grades 6–11), growing each year and set to reach grades 6–12 by 2026–27. Our dedicated College Navigators guide students with college and career exploration, course advising, financial literacy, scholarship support, campus visits, and enrichment programs. Through focused mentoring and community engagement, Polk RISE! builds confidence, academic excellence, and career readiness, benefiting both our students and the broader Polk County community. Get Involved! For further information, contact Katie Marsh, College Navigator for grades 10 & 11: 863.370.8449. Thank you, GiveWell Community Foundation, for investing in the bright future of Polk students! Event Announcement: POLK COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS Soiree for Students Polk Education Foundation and Polk County Public Schools cordially invite you to attend the Soiree for Students (formerly the Polk Together Gala) on Thursday, August 21, at 5:30 p.m. Enjoy an exquisite celebration of academic achievement featuring delicious food, a silent auction, and more. Lake Mirror Auditorium, Lakeland. Social hour begins at 5:30 p.m. with an open bar. - Dinner by Nineteen 61 and cash bar begin at 6:30 p.m. Cocktail Attire. Funds raised from the Soiree will benefit student success programs throughout Polk County. Sponsorships and reservations are still available. Visit: Soiree for Students or call 863.534.0519. Connect TODAY with TOMORROW's Workforce ConnectED Polk is excited to announce that our member recruitment has expanded to Winter Haven, Auburndale, Lake Region, Bartow, Ft. Meade, Frostproof, and Mulberry! We are seeking passionate and purposeful business leaders from these communities to join us in our mission to inspire and prepare the next generation of Polk County’s workforce. If you are interested in making a meaningful impact and engaging with local schools and students, please reach out to Dr. Melody Rider at [email protected] for more information. Career & College Readiness Platform: SchooLinks Business Profile Showcase your organization to your future workforce! Partner with ConnectED Polk and onboard your business to SchooLinks, Polk County’s college and career readiness platform. Connect directly with students, highlight your career opportunities, and inspire the next generation through internships, job shadowing, and more. Ready to engage talented young professionals? Contact ConnectED Polk today to get started!
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