Summary of Services
- PIVOT Program, supporting middle and high school students at risk of academic failure and offering tutoring, coaching, and mentoring
- Tools 4 Schools, which reduces classroom supply costs for teachers, hosts an annual county-wide school supply distribution event
- FLY (Five Learning Years) focuses on early literacy for Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 1st Grade students
- Take Stock in Children Partnership, which serves low-income students in grades 8–10 and offers long-term mentoring, academic coaching, and college readiness support.
- Conducting a Teacher of the Year Program, which celebrates and honors outstanding teachers across St. Johns County
Empowering St. Johns County Students Through Education and Community Support
Investing in Kids (INK!) enhances public education and student success across St. Johns County. Through the design and implementation of innovative programs, INK! Supports more than 50,000 public school students, focusing on academic achievement, youth development, and teacher recognition. More than 82 percent of INK!’s funding is directly invested into transformative initiatives that benefit at-risk youth, provide classroom supplies, fund scholarships, support early literacy, and celebrate outstanding educators.
Core Programs and Services
PIVOT
The PIVOT, prevention, intervention, and academic support program guides middle and high school students away from self-destructive behaviors that may impact their academic success and overall well-being. This initiative offers personalized tutoring and coaching, helping students strengthen their academic performance while learning conflict resolution, understanding the consequences of gang involvement, and developing practical strategies for success both in and out of the classroom.
Tools 4 Schools
To alleviate the financial burden on teachers, Tools 4 Schools partners with The Bailey Group and a network of generous businesses, organizations, and individuals. This program hosts a community-wide donation drive each summer, distributing essential classroom supplies across St. Johns County schools. Teachers can access the materials they need to create effective, well-resourced learning environments. For more information, contact Maureen Wilt at maureen.wilt@stjohns.k12.fl.us or call (904) 547-7120.
FLY (Five Learning Years)
FLY focuses on early literacy for Pre-K, Kindergarten, and First Grade students by providing early intervention tutoring in small groups. These sessions help close the literacy gap and foster reading confidence. On average, 98% of participating students show measurable literacy growth as a result of this program.
Mentorship and Scholarship Opportunities for Students
Through a strategic partnership with Take Stock in Children, INK! supports low-income students in grades 8–10 by offering mentorship, coaching, academic support, and scholarships. Since 1998, the program has helped over 39,000 students statewide graduate from high school while remaining drug-free and crime-free.
Students who qualify receive a scholarship covering 60 college credit hours applicable to a Florida college or technical school.
For application details, contact James Wheeler at james.wheeler@stjohns.k12.fl.us, or call (904) 547-7121.
Providing Teacher Recognition and Community Engagement
Each year, INK! hosts the Teacher of the Year celebration, honoring exceptional educators from across the district. Supported by local individuals and business sponsors, this event recognizes those who go above and beyond in the classroom, inspiring the next generation and elevating the teaching profession. Awards and recognition help boost morale and highlight the importance of teacher impact in student success.
For more information, contact Cathy Newman at catherine.newman@stjohns.k12.fl.us