Flagler County, FL – August 2026 — As Flagler County students prepare to head back to school, the Flagler County Education Foundation (FCEF) has been working around the clock to ensure they have what they need to start the year ready for success.
Throughout the weeks leading up to the first day of school, FCEF staff, volunteers, donors, businesses, and community partners came together to provide school supplies, backpacks, clothing, resources, and support to students and families across Flagler County.
The Foundation’s back-to-school efforts extended far beyond collecting school supplies. FCEF staff worked directly with school leaders, teachers, families, and community organizations to identify needs and make sure resources were in place before students returned to the classroom.
In just five days, FCEF:
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Distributed more than 1,500 filled backpacks
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Participated in 7 school leadership team meetings
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Attended 3 faculty meetings
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Completed 10 S.T.U.F.F. Bus school supply pickups from local businesses
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Participated in the Take Stock in Children Annual Conference
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Attended 10 Meet the Teacher events
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Supported 2 community outreach events at Our House and Hidden Trails Community Centers
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Provided 40+ families with back-to-school clothing for their children
“This is what supporting students, educators, and families looks like,” said Teresa Rizzo, Executive Director of the Flagler County Education Foundation. “Our hearts are full and our hands are sore, but most importantly, the needs of our students and families were met before the first school bell rang. That is only possible because we live in a community that continues to step up for our children.”
A major part of the effort was the Foundation’s S.T.U.F.F. Bus program, which provides school supplies and essential items to Flagler County students throughout the year.
“Starting the school year with the right tools gives students confidence and helps ensure every child walks into the classroom prepared to learn,” said Stephanie Ellis, who leads the S.T.U.F.F. Bus program for the Foundation. “We are incredibly grateful to every business, organization, volunteer, and donor who helped us make that possible.”
The Foundation extends its heartfelt appreciation to the donors, volunteers, business partners, school leaders, educators, and community supporters who donated supplies, hosted collection drives, packed backpacks, provided clothing, volunteered their time, and answered the call when a need arose.
While the back-to-school season may be ending, the need does not. The Flagler County Education Foundation and its S.T.U.F.F. Bus program support students and families throughout the entire school year.
To support the Foundation, donate school supplies, or learn about volunteer opportunities, visit flagleredfoundation.org or call 386-437-7525 ext. 1128.
