FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Katherine Crnkovich, APR, CPRC
Communications Officer
katherine_crnkovich@scps.k12.fl.us

Sanford, FL – Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) has been named the recipient of a $5.8 million grant through the Magnet Schools Assistance Program (MSAP). We are thrilled to share that this grant will be utilized to reimagine and enhance the magnet program at South Seminole Academy, transforming it into an innovative Career Exploration Academy. This grant represents one of the largest magnet school awards to a single school that SCPS has ever received, underscoring the district’s commitment to providing students with dynamic, future-focused learning opportunities.

With these funds, South Seminole Academy will create a unique curriculum to support students as they explore potential career pathways using a system of three “houses.” The theme for each house is driven by a Career and Technology Education (CTE) pathway that directly connects with several CTE programs at our high schools providing a seamless transition after 8th grade. Students will have opportunities to participate in houses based on their interests and exploration goals. The three houses include:

Business and Creation House – Focused on entrepreneurial skills, creativity, and innovation, this house will prepare students for careers in business, marketing, and creative industries.
Service House – Designed for students interested in fields such as healthcare, public service, and education, this house will emphasize community engagement and leadership in service-oriented careers.

Technology House – Aimed at students with an interest in technology, engineering, and computer science, this house will immerse students in cutting-edge technological skills and problem-solving methodologies.

"We are thrilled to have been selected for this transformative magnet school grant, which will allow us to provide even greater opportunities for our students," said Serita D. Beamon, Superintendent of Seminole County Public Schools. "The South Seminole Career Exploration Academy is an incredible initiative that will empower our students to explore various career paths, develop essential skills, and prepare for bright futures.

This grant will be instrumental in funding the development of new curriculum, resources, and facilities to support the Career Exploration Academy. By providing hands-on experiences, mentorship opportunities, and an interdisciplinary approach to learning, the program aims to cultivate students’ passions and prepare them for success in both education and the workforce.

South Seminole Academy’s redesigned magnet program will begin a roll-out in the 2025-2026 school year and expand over the course of a five-year implementation period. SCPS looks forward to engaging the community and local businesses as partners in this exciting endeavor.