The Foundation for Orange County Public Schools is committed to providing our schools and teachers with the resources they need to help each student succeed. Established in 1987 by local business and community leaders, it is the only direct-support organization for Orange County Public Schools, providing millions of dollars in time, talent and treasure through volunteers, business partners and donors.
Led by a 22-member board, the resources and funds collected from donors and businesses assist the nation’s eighth-largest public school system, supporting more than 212,000 students and 15,000 teachers in 199 schools.
In its early years, FOCPS launched several innovative programs, including Teach In; A Gift for Teaching; Take Stock in Children; and its flagship program, Read2Succeed. A Gift for Teaching and Take Stock in Children soon saw the need for more space, and are now thriving, separate nonprofits that today help students and children throughout Central Florida.
Fundraising has matured considerably since FOCPS first began: While it raised $2 million over its first 20 years to support the district, today the team regularly raises nearly $3 million annually. In addition, funds under management include close to $2 million held in approximately 150 school and district funds, and more than $3.2 million in investment funds.
FOCPS’ current Strategic Plan includes the following philanthropic priorities:
- Ensure Learning Readiness: support early childhood education, mental and physical health and wellness, and behavioral improvements
- Invest in Teachers & Staff: provide professional development, impact and innovation grants, and investments in teacher excellence and retention
- Accelerate Student Success: focus on literacy, access to STEM, access to arts, and efforts that narrow achievement gaps
- Promote Success After OCPS: support career and college readiness efforts, scholarships, mentoring and alumni programs
- Drive Community Collaborations: build meaningful relationships and partnerships with OCPS and the community, including serving as a communication hub
For more information about FOCPS and ways you can invest in the success of Orange County students and teachers, visit
https://www.foundationforocps.org.