Cadets at Sarasota Military Academy (SMA) found a new addition on campus when they arrived for the new school year—through a partnership with the Education Foundation of Sarasota County, a Student Success Center is open and staffed with two Student Success Coaches. At the Student Success Center on SMA’s campus, students will work one-on-one with a Student Success Coach to identify their purpose and interests and to map pathways for potential college, military, and career pursuits after high school. Individualized services that help cadets plan for their futures include workshops on paying for college, writing essays and resumes, and more. 

Jennifer Vigne, Education Foundation president and CEO, said, “We believe we have a responsibility to support each and every student as they develop their plans beyond high school, and we are building relationships in the community to identify those who need extra support and to meet those students where they are.” Located in downtown Sarasota, SMA serves approximately 700 students in grades 9 – 12.

“Having seen firsthand the difference made at our community-wide LaunchPad4U located in downtown Sarasota, this agreement with SMA is exciting because it gives us the opportunity to customize our Student Success Center model for SMA students and to connect directly with students. Expanding students’ options will prepare them to seize the opportunity to go further in life,” Vigne said.

SMA-COL Christina Bowman, interim head of school and CEO, said, “We are excited and proud to partner with the Education Foundation in bringing this level of comprehensive support to our students and families. We believe the benefits will expand their opportunities and have a positive multi-generational impact.”

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