Education Foundation of Alachua County Receives $10,000 Grant from First Federal Foundation

October 24, 2025
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The Education Foundation of Alachua County has been awarded a $10,000 grant from the First Federal Foundation to create new senior scholarships and sponsor the 2026 Teacher of the Year Reception. The funding will provide 4 new scholarships for local high school seniors pursuing higher education and help celebrate outstanding teachers across the district.

The Senior Scholarship program was the first initiative at The Education Foundation of Alachua County, and since 1986 we have awarded over $12.5 million in scholarships with criteria ranging in academics, need, and interest. The First Federal Foundation Grant will create 4 new scholarships for high school seniors to support them when pursuing higher education.

“One scholarship application opens the door to more than 80 scholarship opportunities. These scholarships are sponsored by local businesses, civic organizations and individuals honoring those who want to leave a legacy of supporting students’ goal of receiving a college education,” said Tia Brock-Paul, Executive Director of The Education Foundation of AlachuaCounty. “This is how our Education Foundation got its start in 1986, and we are grateful for our partners who help us make college and career a reality for so many students.”

These scholarships are making a difference in students’ lives–Alana Seals, the 2025 recipient of Alachua BusinessLeague $2,000 Scholarship shares: “This award will allow me the opportunity to gain knowledge that will help me grow as a student and future business owner in our community. Having access to these funds will allow me to focus on the other aspects of my education without worrying about how to pay for it”.

Applications for the First Federal Scholarships and other Education Foundation awards will open on December 17th, 2025 at edfoundationac.org. If your family/company are interested in providing scholarship opportunities the Education Foundation is happy to discuss how to create one.

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