United Way of Central Florida and the George Jenkins Foundation Award $20,000 Youth Opportunity Grant to Mi Escuela Montessori

Lakeland, FL — 11/03/2025 — Mi Escuela Montessori is honored to announce that it has been awarded a $20,000 Youth Opportunity Grant from the United Way of Central Florida (UWCF) and the George Jenkins Foundation in support of its Project CONNECT initiative.

This competitive grant program received a substantial number of outstanding applications from across Central Florida, and UWCF was able to fund only about one-third of the proposals submitted. Mi Escuela Montessori is proud to be among those selected for this important recognition and support.

Project CONNECT is designed to improve student attendance, promote positive behavior, strengthen family engagement, and increase academic achievement in reading and math for K–8 students. Through targeted interventions, bilingual family workshops, and teacher professional development, the program ensures students remain connected to learning even when challenges arise.

“Chronic absenteeism doesn’t just affect attendance records — it shapes a child’s long-term academic path,” said Kelly De La Cruz, Executive Director and Founder of Mi Escuela Montessori. “Through the support of United Way of Central Florida and the George Jenkins Foundation, we can help build a program that decreases absenteeism and recovers the valuable learning time students have missed. This grant allows us to close gaps and strengthen the connection between home, school, and success.”

The Youth Opportunity Grant program reflects UWCF’s commitment to fostering equitable access to education and community well-being throughout Central Florida. Through this partnership, Mi Escuela Montessori will continue advancing its mission to provide a high-quality, bilingual, Montessori-based education that empowers students to thrive.

About United Way of Central FloridaUnited Way of Central Florida works to improve lives and strengthen communities by mobilizing the caring power of individuals and organizations to advance education, income stability, and health.

About the George Jenkins FoundationThe George Jenkins Foundation supports initiatives that enhance education, health, and community well-being across Central Florida, continuing the legacy of George W. Jenkins, founder of Publix Super Markets.