Today more than 20 community leaders celebrated their final day together as members of the inaugural class of Inside PCPS.
The new program explores the complexities of our local public education system, and was created through the collaboration of Polk County Public Schools and Polk Vision.
Starting in August 2022, members met monthly for daylong sessions filled with hands-on experiences and in-depth discussions on what it takes to operate as the seventh-largest school district in Florida, and the second-largest employer in Polk County.
Class members traveled throughout the county visiting schools and learning more about district operations. Today’s final session included a trip to Rochelle School of the Arts, as well as a meet-and-greet with Polk County School Board members.
“As a 32-year career educator, it’s given me great joy to share the hard work going on in the Polk County Public Schools system with my Inside PCPS colleagues,” said Dr. Daryl Ward, class chair and executive director of the Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance.
“I couldn’t be prouder of PCPS employees for their work,” Ward said. “From bus drivers to lunchroom workers to ESE teachers and paraprofessionals, the people of PCPS continue to impress with their compassion and commitment to the children of Polk County.”
Thanks to everyone — including our sponsors — for making this inaugural class such a success!
