Bay County Launches Literacy Fund to Honor Beloved Educator Candy Cole

Bay County Launches Literacy Fund to Honor Beloved Educator Candy Cole

In a heartfelt tribute to a beloved local educator, the Bay Education Foundation has launched the Candace Cole Literacy Fund. This initiative honors the late Candace “Candy” Cole, a reading coach whose passionate work transformed the educational landscape at Springfield Elementary School. Known for her unwavering commitment to students and teachers, Cole’s legacy will now live on through programs aimed at improving literacy among children in Bay County, Florida.

As reported by News Herald, the fund was launched following a generous donation of school supplies from HCA Florida Gulf Coast Hospital in Panama City on August 7. This act is a reflection of the hospital’s long-standing mission to enhance community well-being, having been a cornerstone of healthcare in Bay County since its inception in 1977.

The Legacy of Candace Cole

Candace Cole dedicated many years to improving reading skills among her students, displaying such passion that she often used her own funds to purchase books and tools to support struggling readers. Under her guidance, Springfield Elementary saw significant progress, elevating its grades from F’s and D’s to C’s and B’s. Tim Prather, president of the Bay Education Foundation’s board, noted her profound impact on both students and fellow educators. „Candy was committed to education in a way that few are,“ he remarked.

The Candace Cole Literacy Fund aims to keep her spirit alive by providing financial support for literacy initiatives in Bay District Schools. Donations to the fund are tax-deductible and can be made online, with a special promise from a private donor to match contributions up to $5,000. This opportunity to double the impact of every gift means that local residents can contribute to their community’s education while honoring Cole’s legacy.

Community Support and Educational Enhancement

The Bay Education Foundation continues to foster educational excellence through various programs, one of which is Grants for Great Ideas. The foundation provides grants for educators who wish to incorporate visual arts into their curriculum, enhancing learning across different subjects. Projects funded can range from arts-based learning to nature-themed initiatives that engage students with the environment, showcasing the foundation’s commitment to a comprehensive educational experience. More information on these grants can be found at the Bay Education Foundation’s website here.

In the backdrop of educational initiatives, HCA Florida Gulf Coast Hospital has played a pivotal role in the community’s healthcare landscape since its establishment. Originally conceived to address the need for modern healthcare facilities, the hospital has grown into a state-of-the-art institution that continues to prioritize community health and wellness. This reflects a shared spirit of dedication and service that is also evident in educational efforts like those spearheaded by the Bay Education Foundation.

Candace Cole’s story is not just about a single individual; it’s a heartfelt reminder of the profound influence one person can have on an entire community. As we embrace new initiatives like the Candace Cole Literacy Fund, we can look forward to a future where young readers in Bay County thrive, inspired by the legacy of a remarkable educator. Let’s continue to support these important efforts and ensure that every child has the chance to succeed.