Miami-Dade County, September 2, 2025
News Summary
Achieve Miami, a nonprofit organization focused on enhancing educational opportunities for K-12 students in Miami-Dade County, has received a $2.4 million donation from various philanthropists, including a significant $2 million contribution from Kenneth C. Griffin. This funding will enhance initiatives like the Achieve Scholars program and the Teacher Accelerator Program, aiming to improve student readiness for college while addressing teacher shortages. The organization’s mission since 2015 centers on creating a transformational educational ecosystem through community partnerships.
Miami
Achieve Miami, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving educational opportunities for K-12 students in Miami-Dade County, has received a significant boost with a $2.4 million donation from philanthropists. The funding is aimed at enhancing various educational initiatives and programs that positively impact student learning and teacher recruitment in the area.
The donation comprises contributions from multiple philanthropic organizations, with a notable $2 million gift from Kenneth C. Griffin, founder and CEO of Citadel. This financial support was awarded over the past year and is expected to further elevate Achieve Miamiโs efforts in providing students with the necessary tools for academic success.
Focus on Key Programs
Achieve Miamiโs initiatives include the Achieve Scholars program, designed to prepare high school students for college success, and the Achieve Summer program, which aims to combat learning loss through engaging academic and enrichment activities. Additionally, the financial support will significantly benefit the Teacher Accelerator Program (TAP), focused on addressing the teacher shortage in Miami-Dade by attracting and preparing new educators.
This latest donation will specifically enhance TAP, a program aimed at recruiting, preparing, and mentoring aspiring educators. The initiative has already facilitated nearly 200 new teachers since its inception in 2023, underscoring the need for effective teacher recruitment and training in the face of nationwide shortages.
Past Support and Commitment
Griffinโs support extends beyond this recent contribution. In 2022, he made a substantial donation of $3.5 million to TAP, demonstrating a strong commitment to improving educational quality and access in Florida and across the United States. To date, Griffin has committed over $900 million to initiatives aimed at enhancing educational opportunities, particularly in underserved areas.
Despite its growth and substantial economy, Florida currently ranks 21st in per capita education funding, highlighting a pressing need for increased financial support for educational initiatives. Achieve Miami has positively impacted over 10,000 students and facilitated college readiness programs across ten high school sites.
The Mission of Achieve Miami
Since its establishment in 2015, Achieve Miamiโs mission has focused on fostering a transformational educational ecosystem through effective partnerships within the community. Their collaboration with local universities such as University of Miami, Florida International University, and Miami-Dade College strengthens their Teacher Accelerator Program by preparing college students and career changers for a teaching career with certification and field experience.
The recent influx of funding is expected to empower educators and drive further expansion of programs aimed at uplifting underprivileged students in the Miami-Dade area. By providing resources to both students and teachers, Achieve Miami is taking significant steps towards improved educational outcomes for the community.
Impact and Future Goals
With the help of this funding, Achieve Miami aims to expand its reach and services, ensuring that more students are prepared for higher education, while also building a robust support system for new teachers entering the profession. The emphasis on high-quality education, coupled with innovative programs, is foundational to addressing the challenges faced by the education system in the region.
FAQs
What is Achieve Miami?
Achieve Miami is a nonprofit organization focused on improving educational opportunities for K-12 students in Miami-Dade County through various programs and partnerships.
What programs does Achieve Miami offer?
Achieve Miami runs several initiatives, including the Achieve Scholars program, Achieve Summer program, and the Teacher Accelerator Program aimed at preparing students for college and training aspiring teachers.
Who donated to Achieve Miami?
Achieve Miami received a major donation of $2 million from Kenneth C. Griffin, with additional support from various philanthropic organizations.
How will the funds be used?
The funds will enhance existing programs, support teacher recruitment, and help expand educational initiatives focused on student success in Miami-Dade County.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Achieve Scholars Program | A program designed to prepare high school students for college success. | Increased college readiness for students. |
| Achieve Summer Program | Combat learning loss through hands-on academics and enrichment. | Enhanced summer learning experiences for K-12 students. |
| Teacher Accelerator Program (TAP) | Addresses teacher shortages through recruitment and training. | Support for nearly 200 new teachers since 2023. |
| Fundraising | $2.4 million donation to enhance educational initiatives. | Expansion and empowerment of educational programs. |
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