VW eLab Showcase Demonstrates Innovation in Hamilton County Schools
More than 150 Hamilton County students showcased their skills Thursday at the VW eLab Showcase, made possible through a partnership between PEF, Hamilton County Schools, and Volkswagen. VW eLabs bring hands-on STEM learning to local schools. Through this collaboration, schools have access to state-of-the-art VW eLabs, where students gain real-world experience with robotics, 3D printing, and design software. At the showcase, students proudly presented their projects demonstrating the creativity and problem-solving skills these labs help cultivate.
Bright Futures Blog: Aleena Shahbaz’s Journey to Nursing School
Meet Aleena Shahbaz! From a high schooler with a dream to a nursing student making it happen—Aleena’s journey is one of perseverance, mentorship, and the power of public education. Through the Gateway Scholars program, she found the support she needed to navigate college applications, financial aid, and the transition to higher education. Now, she’s on her way to making a difference in healthcare!
Project Inspire Continues Recruiting and Training New Teachers of Color
Public Education Foundation's (PEF) ongoing efforts to recruit and train teachers of color is paying big dividends. A prospective new teacher has returned to Orchard Knob Elementary School, where she was a student not that long ago.
Shaquita Stalmaker is living the dream, training to be a teacher in the school she attended through fifth grade. She is part of the Public Education Foundation's teacher residency program, Project Inspire.
Equipped for College! Jessica Velasquez Awarded Inaugural Camp College Scholarship
When Fall classes begin at UT-Chattanooga on August 19th, incoming freshmen may be anxious about many things – a new environment, coursework, campus life, etc. First-generation college student Jessica Velasquez may have those same freshman jitters; however, she won’t be worried about some of her college expenses. READ MORE...
Camp College Celebrates 25 Years of Impact
Public Education Foundation (PEF) is thrilled to announce the 25th anniversary of Camp College, an initiative that has profoundly impacted the lives of students for a quarter of a century. To commemorate this milestone, this year’s participants, graduates from the previous 24 years of Camp College, college admissions counselors who have served as counselors over the last two decades, supporters, and PEF staff members gathered at Sewanee: University of the South for a celebration and time to reflect on their experiences in a program that has become a beacon of hope for Hamilton County public school students who want to become the first in their families to graduate from college.