Holmes County Education Foundation

Holmes County Education Foundation We envision a community where all students can achieve

Our mission is to strengthen public education in Holmes County through advocacy, investment in resources, and programs that empower every student to achieve academic, vocational, and personal success.

The Holmes County Education Foundation is proud to announce that Peyton, an HDSB student, has been selected as the winne...
03/08/2026

The Holmes County Education Foundation is proud to announce that Peyton, an HDSB student, has been selected as the winner of our Student Logo Design Contest. After reviewing submissions from across the district, the Foundation’s Board of Directors voted to select Peyton’s design as the Foundation’s new official logo.

Peyton was recognized at the Foundation’s board meeting last week and was presented with a $250 award along with our sincere appreciation for the outstanding design.

We would also like to extend a special thank you to Mr. Hunter Somerset, HCHS teacher, whose students submitted the largest number of entries for the contest.

We are grateful to all the talented students who participated and helped make this contest a success!

We are deeply grateful to Emerald Coast Hospice for their generous donation! 💙 Their continued support helps us expand o...
01/13/2026

We are deeply grateful to Emerald Coast Hospice for their generous donation! 💙 Their continued support helps us expand opportunities and resources for students across our district.

This contribution will go directly toward initiatives that make a difference in the lives of Holmes District students.

We are honored to partner with organizations like Emerald Coast Hospice that believe in the power of education and the potential of every student. 📚

The Holmes County Education Foundation is proud to announce that we received matching funds through the School District ...
11/13/2025

The Holmes County Education Foundation is proud to announce that we received matching funds through the School District Education Foundation Matching Grant Program, made possible by the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations.

Thanks to this support, we funded over 20 innovative classroom projects across Holmes District Schools for the 2025–2026 school year. These projects focus on engaging students in meaningful, hands-on learning—from literacy and STEM to creativity, wellness, and career exploration.

Today we delivered award checks to teachers across the district, and we’ll be sharing their photos below so you can help us celebrate their incredible work. 👇📸

A special thank-you goes to Board Members Carmen Bush and Jared White for helping ensure every check was delivered on time and every classroom can get started right away.

For more than 20 years, the Consortium has partnered with local education foundations like ours to provide dollar-for-dollar matching funds for projects that support students, strengthen instruction, and build brighter futures. Last year alone:
✔️ Over $17.5 million invested statewide
✔️ $7 million in state funds matched by $10+ million in private giving
✔️ 109 projects funded across 57 school districts
✔️ Impacting 99% of Florida’s K–12 public school students

We are honored to be part of this work and grateful for the community members who make it possible.

To learn more about the Consortium and the statewide impact of this program, visit educationfoundationsfl.org.

Exciting news for Holmes District schools! Thanks to the FPL EmPOWERing STEM Grant, we’ve been able to deliver funds to ...
08/27/2025

Exciting news for Holmes District schools! Thanks to the FPL EmPOWERing STEM Grant, we’ve been able to deliver funds to Ponce de Leon High, Bethlehem High, Poplar Springs High, and Bonifay K-8 to support hands-on STEM learning experiences for students.

These funds will provide essential classroom resources, materials, and support for STEM initiatives like SeaPerch robotics and other project-based activities that prepare our students for future careers in science, technology, engineering, and math.

A special thank you to Mrs. Carmen Bush, HCEF Vice President, for making sure every participating school received their funds quickly so teachers and students can start putting them to use right away!

As we gear up for an exciting new school year, we’re thrilled to announce that $493,700 has been included in the state b...
08/05/2025

As we gear up for an exciting new school year, we’re thrilled to announce that $493,700 has been included in the state budget to support a district-wide Distance Learning Initiative in Holmes District Schools.

A heartfelt thank you to Senator Jay Trumbull and Representative Shane Abbott for championing this effort and advocating for Holmes County students and teachers.

This funding will help expand access to virtual learning opportunities across all campuses—enhancing CTE programs, dual enrollment, advanced coursework, and professional development for educators.

“We’re proud to support Holmes District Schools in creating flexible, future-ready learning environments,” said Joe Rone, President of the Holmes County Education Foundation. “This initiative will open new doors for students, no matter where they live.”

We’re excited to see how this project unfolds throughout the school year and look forward to serving our district’s students, teachers, and staff.

Continued Support Brings More Smiles: First Federal Bank Donates Again to Bonifay K-8 Playground ProjectThe Holmes Count...
07/14/2025

Continued Support Brings More Smiles: First Federal Bank Donates Again to Bonifay K-8 Playground Project

The Holmes County Education Foundation is proud to announce the award of a $7,500 grant from First Federal Bank—marking the second consecutive year the bank has contributed to the Bonifay K-8 playground improvement project. This continued support is a testament to First Federal Bank’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for children and families in Holmes County.

Last year’s donation helped launch the initial phase of the playground enhancement project, which added new equipment designed to encourage physical activity, social interaction, and inclusive play for students of all ages. This year’s grant will help complete additional upgrades, including the expansion of play areas and the installation of shade structures to make outdoor time safer and more enjoyable for students throughout the school year.

“This continued investment in our students is a powerful statement of First Federal Bank’s belief in our schools and our future,” said Joe Rone, President of the Holmes County Education Foundation. “We are incredibly grateful for their trust and support as we work to improve the lives of children across Holmes County.”

The Holmes County Education Foundation, a nonprofit organization supporting educational opportunities and student success throughout the district, has made improving student wellness and access to safe play a top priority. The Bonifay K-8 playground project is just one example of how strategic partnerships can create lasting benefits for the community.

“The new equipment has made a visible impact on student morale and physical activity levels,” said Bonifay K-8 co-principal Tiffany Steverson. “We’ve already seen the joy and energy it brings to our students, and we are so excited to continue building on that success.”

🎉 Holmes County Education Foundation Invests $15,850 in Local Classrooms! 🎉The Holmes County Education Foundation is thr...
03/15/2025

🎉 Holmes County Education Foundation Invests $15,850 in Local Classrooms! 🎉

The Holmes County Education Foundation is thrilled to announce the recipients of our 2025 Classroom Mini-Grant Program! This year, almost $16,000 was awarded to 18 innovative classroom projects at Ponce de Leon Elementary, Bonifay K-8, Poplar Springs, and Bethlehem High School. These grants support teachers who are bringing creative, hands-on learning to students across Holmes County.

Here’s a glimpse of the amazing projects funded this year:

A classroom set of B.E.S.T. books for grades 8-12 to support literature studies now and in the years to come.
Expanding the 7th-grade library to give students more access to engaging literature.
Interactive readers aligned with the Science of Reading to support 2nd-grade inclusion students.
Audiobooks and MP3 players for 8th-grade students, making complex texts more accessible to struggling readers.
Hands-on phonics activities for 1st grade, using magnetic letters and manipulatives to strengthen foundational reading skills.
New leveled readers to empower young readers in 1st grade.
A hands-on science project called "Our 'Egg'cellent Adventure" that lets 3rd graders experience the life cycle of chickens firsthand.
Technology integration in 7th-grade reading and writing classes to engage students through digital tools.
Phonemic awareness activities and resources for 1st graders to develop early literacy skills.
Science kits and interactive resources for 5th-grade students to explore ecosystems, energy, and scientific inquiry.
Multisensory literacy centers in 1st grade to engage students through sight, sound, and touch.
A school-wide Poetry Night during National Poetry Month, encouraging student expression and public speaking.
A publishing project where 1st graders become published authors by creating and sharing their own books.
Hands-on science exploration in 4th grade focused on natural resources, weathering, erosion, and moon phases.
An "Ultimate Animal Showdown" project for 4th graders, combining reading comprehension, research, and creativity as students explore animal adaptations and habitats.
iReady resources for 3rd and 4th-grade students, providing targeted intervention and remediation in Math and Reading.

These projects, made possible by our generous donors and community partners, focus on hands-on learning, literacy development, science exploration, and technology integration. Together, they will benefit hundreds of students across the county by promoting engagement, building skills, and supporting academic success.

At Holmes County Education Foundation, we are proud to support teachers who go above and beyond for their students. These grants are an investment in the future of Holmes County! Check out the photos of some of our board members meeting with the classroom teachers!

Want to help fund next year’s mini-grants? Contact us to learn how you can be part of this impactful work.

02/11/2025

We are excited to announce we received a $33,750 grant as part of a three-year $1,200,000 grant from the Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation to the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations (Consortium). This funding aims to increase student interest in healthcare careers and successful participation in high school healthcare career academies, particularly among students from underrepresented rural communities.

Through the ‘Explore & Excel in Healthcare Career Pathways’ program grant, the Holmes County Education Foundation will support students in grades 10-12 by reducing barriers and increasing access to industry-recognized certifications in high-demand healthcare fields.

"This funding will provide support as the district continues to connect students to post-secondary opportunities that lead to high-wage, high-skill careers in the healthcare industry," said Joe Rone, Chairman of the Holmes County Education Foundation.

"The Consortium is pleased to bring much-needed healthcare career pathway exploration and acceleration opportunities to students across the state of Florida," said Mary Chance, President/CEO of the Consortium. "As healthcare careers continue to be in demand, the need to inspire and engage students in this area is critical."

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About the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations (Consortium):

The Consortium is a membership organization for Florida’s school district-wide local education foundations. Established in 1987, the Consortium connects individuals, organizations, and financial resources to build the capacity and effectiveness of Florida’s local education foundations. The Consortium now has 64 member foundations with 1,200 business and community leaders serving as volunteer board members. Collectively, they raise more than $100 million annually to support students, teachers, and schools through a variety of programs.

The Consortium has provided nearly $70 million to local education foundations since 2001 through various private- and public-sector partnerships, including the State of Florida School District Education Foundation Matching Grant Program.

For more information about the Consortium, visit: educationfoundationsfl.org

🎉 Exciting News 🎉We are honored to announce that the Holmes County Education Foundation has been selected as a recipient...
01/14/2025

🎉 Exciting News 🎉

We are honored to announce that the Holmes County Education Foundation has been selected as a recipient of the Building College & Career Readiness Cultures in Rural Florida School Districts initiative! 🌟

This incredible opportunity, funded by the Gates Foundation and facilitated by the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations, will help us further our mission to remove barriers to success for students. We are committed to investing the time, effort, and resources needed to create a brighter future for Holmes District Schools students.

We are deeply grateful for the support and partnership of the Gates Foundation and the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations as we embark on this exciting journey. Stay tuned as we share stories of progress and promising practices that highlight the incredible potential of our District! 🌱📚

🌟 A Heartfelt Thank You to Emerald Coast Hospice! 🌟The Holmes County Education Foundation is thrilled to announce a gene...
01/14/2025

🌟 A Heartfelt Thank You to Emerald Coast Hospice! 🌟

The Holmes County Education Foundation is thrilled to announce a generous $5,000 donation from our amazing community partner, Emerald Coast Hospice! 💙 This incredible gift is a testament to their commitment to investing in the future of our students and our community.

These funds will go directly toward serving the students of Holmes District Schools, empowering us to expand opportunities, support innovative programs, and create lasting impacts in education. From classroom resources to student-focused initiatives, this donation will help us continue to open doors and pave the way for success.

We couldn’t be more excited to put this support to work and showcase the positive change that’s possible when we come together for our students. Stay tuned to see all the incredible things this partnership will help us achieve—we can’t wait to share the impact with you! 🌱📚

Thank you, Emerald Coast Hospice, for your generosity, your belief in our mission, and your dedication to making a difference in Holmes County!

The Holmes County Education Foundation is thrilled to announce a generous $1,500 donation from First Federal Bank to pur...
12/11/2024

The Holmes County Education Foundation is thrilled to announce a generous $1,500 donation from First Federal Bank to purchase a large-scale, commercial-grade laminator for the Holmes District School Board. This much-needed equipment will serve the district office and all schools within Holmes County, providing a critical resource to support our educators and enhance classroom materials.

For any school district, access to high-quality tools such as this laminator is vital. It allows teachers to create durable, reusable teaching aids that support student learning in a cost-effective way, benefiting every school in the district. Resources like this strengthen our ability to deliver creative and engaging instruction.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to First Federal Bank for their generosity and to the Holmes District School Board for allowing us to partner on this project. One of the great aspects of living and working in a small county is the collaborative spirit that thrives here. Many of the same individuals involved in this donation can also be seen championing positive events, community outreach, and local organizations. Their dedication exemplifies the resilience and connection that define Holmes County.

First Federal Bank continues to set an example of what it means to be a “big-time bank” with extensive services and offerings, all while maintaining its small-town commitment and feel. We are grateful for their support and investment in our schools and community.

Stay tuned! We’re eagerly awaiting the laminator’s arrival and will share updates with some action shots of it in use once it’s here.

Thank you again, First Federal Bank, for helping us build brighter futures for the students of Holmes District Schools!

Pictured: HCEF member Jared White, FFBF and HCEF member Sandy Spear, HDSB representatives Melissa Baxley, Carmen Bush (HCEF member), Superintendent Buddy Brown, HCEF member Joe Rone, FFBF representative David Whitaker.

We at the Holmes County Education Foundation know we serve the best! Today, we had the privilege of presenting grant che...
12/06/2024

We at the Holmes County Education Foundation know we serve the best! Today, we had the privilege of presenting grant checks to some of our amazing instructional staff across the district, helping to fund their SeaPerch programs. These funds, provided through the generous support of the Florida Power & Light EmPOWERing STEM Educators Grant, will enhance the SeaPerch program at Bethlehem High School, Bonifay K-8, Poplar Springs High School, and Ponce De Leon High School, allowing students to dive into the world of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) by designing and testing underwater robots!

The SeaPerch program provides a hands-on learning experience where students get to apply their knowledge in engineering and robotics. Thanks to FPL, our educators now have access to more of the resources they need to bring this exciting project to life, making STEM education more accessible and engaging for students.

We can’t wait to see what our students will accomplish as they continue to explore the world of robotics and engineering. Stay tuned for more updates and photos from these exciting SeaPerch projects!

Address

701 East Pennsyvania Avenue
Bonifay, FL
32425

Opening Hours

Monday 7:30am - 3:30pm
Tuesday 7:30am - 3:30pm
Wednesday 7:30am - 3:30pm
Thursday 7:30am - 3pm
Friday 7:30am - 3:30pm

Telephone

+18505479341

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