STUART, Fla. — It has been another record-breaking year for the Education Foundation of Martin County (EFMC). The nonprofit organization’s 2024-2025 fiscal year ended on June 30, 2025 and there is much to reflect upon regarding its many accomplishments.
The EFMC raised a record-setting $1.4 million to support students and teachers in Martin County’s public schools — funds that directly enhanced classroom learning, expanded student opportunities and celebrated educational excellence.
“This extraordinary year would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our donors, sponsors, community partners and volunteers,” said EFMC Executive Director Lisa Rhodes. “Their belief in our mission continues to open doors for students and empower our teachers. We are incredibly grateful.”
The EFMC broadened its healthcare programming through the HCA Empowering a Healthier Martin initiative, helping 175 high school students earn professional certifications. At South Fork High, the Foundation partnered with The Able Trust to launch Futures in Focus, offering students with individualized plans real-world work experiences, job readiness training and introductions to inclusive post-secondary programs.
The Foundation continued its Book Bonanza Family Literacy Events in collaboration with the New Worlds Reading Initiative. Over 1800 participants at nine school-based events enjoyed dinner, reading games and free books. The Foundation’s “For the Love of Reading” Book Vending Machine Initiative delivered thousands of books to students and introduced fun literacy campaigns.
The EFMC also partnered with the Children’s Services Council and Martin Reads! on the STELLAR initiative at Port Salerno Elementary. This focused effort increased reading proficiency and provided students with targeted literacy support.
The Foundation launched the Career Champions Advocacy Work Group, exceeding its goal of increasing Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA) completions by 10% and supporting expanded dual enrollment access. The EFMC also expanded its Career Exploration Labs in middle schools.
The EFMC raised $285,000 through its “Your Classroom Connection” platform, including Adopt-a-Class and Fund-a-Project, directing 100% of those funds to teachers. The Foundation also expanded its FPL EmPOWERing STEM Educators initiative, offering peer-led math and science training and new instructional tools to educators.
Additional projects included Innovative Solutions Grants, which funded 14 creative projects; underwriting the Martin County Science & Engineering Fair; EFMC’s Re-Engineering Algebra program, which brought real-world math to middle school students; the Hurricane Milton Fund, which raised more than $80,000 in cash and critical supplies for Murray Middle School’s affected students and staff; and hosting its annual Teacher of the Year Awards Celebration.
Outgoing Board President Lois McGuire added, “It has been the honor to serve this Foundation. This year has shown what’s possible when a community comes together with purpose. I’m deeply proud of all we’ve achieved.”
As EFMC looks ahead, its commitment to public education remains stronger than ever, ensuring that every student in Martin County has the tools, resources and opportunities to thrive. For more information visit www.EducationFoundationMC.org or contact the office at 772-600-8062.
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Photos provided by the Education Foundation of Martin County – IDs
EFMC Futures in Focus.jpg - Front row, from left: Lisa Rhodes, Maria Marroquin , Angio Hernandez-IC, Xain Krabec, Angelia Billiot / Back row, from left: Kate Cannon, Julie Butler
EFMC Richardson Scholarship.jpg - Jennifer DiTrapani-Gimbal, EFMC board member, Peyton Flaitz, 2025 JBHS graduate and winner of the Judith C. Richardson Scholarship and Judith Richardson, retired educator and EFMC donor
EFMC Book Bonanza.jpg - Book Bonanza at Port Salerno Elementary School - From left: Lisa Rhodes, EFMC executive director, Skippy Jon Jones, Leigh Anne Pike, MCHS media specialist and 2020-2021 Martin County Teacher of the Year and David Shaffer, principal of Port Salerno Elementary School
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