SMART Bond Program and local businesses collaboration foster educational growth in Broward County
Broward County, Florida – Broward County’s business community is playing an instrumental role in the evolution of Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) through the SMART Bond Program. Endorsed in 2014, this initiative seeks to refine BCPS educational settings by allocating resources to five focal areas: Safety, Music & Art, Athletics, Renovation, and Technology. Notably, the program significantly influences the local commercial landscape by involving small and minority-owned enterprises in the renovation endeavors.
A notable participant is Francis Engineering, steered by Orrett Francis. Having rooted itself in Broward County since 1996, the firm clinched its inaugural project under the SMART Program in 2018, paving the way for its extended engagement in educational projects. Similarly, other establishments, such as Grace & Naeem and LEGO Construction, are actively collaborating in the program’s refurbishment projects.
The endeavors sponsored by the SMART Bond Program are multifaceted, encompassing improvements to roofing and HVAC systems, augmentation of fire sprinkler systems, and introduction of novel classrooms. Presently, the program is supervising over 200 ongoing renovation tasks, a testament to the commitment of local enterprises in elevating Broward County’s educational standards.
In the context of notable contributions, LEGO Construction merits mention. Earlier this year, the company played a pivotal role in the initiation ceremony for a novel pre-K instructional facility. This venture, boasting six instructional spaces and a playground, is supported by a financial infusion of $9 million from the local community and businesses.
Expected to culminate by 2025, the SMART Bond Program embodies a synergistic alliance between the academic realm and local enterprises. The primary objective remains the enhancement of both educational outcomes and infrastructural ambience within Broward County.
