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Sarasota board advances 'Future Focus' plan: Brookside magnet, discovery centers and K–6 rollups
Summary
At the Jan. 6 workshop the district outlined a multi-pronged Future Focus plan: reimagining Brookside as a countywide AI/tech magnet (500 survey responses; 71% parent interest among incoming sixth-graders), partnering with USF, Junior Achievement and local nonprofits, phasing K–6 rollups, and a phased $40 million fundraising/capital strategy.
District leaders used the Jan. 6 workshop to detail the "Future Focus" strategic initiative, which repurposes campus space, creates thematic magnet programming and builds community partnerships to attract students and leverage external funding.
Brookside: reimagine as a technology magnet District staff proposed converting Brookside into a districtwide magnet focused on machine learning, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and esports. A naming and interest survey opened to the community; staff reported roughly 500 responses with a strong lead for the name "Gulf Coast Academy of Innovation and Technology" (combined first/second choice 68%). Staff also reported 71% of respondents with upcoming sixth‑grade students answered yes or maybe when asked about attending an AI/tech‑focused program.
Academic and partner commitments Chief Academic Officer Rachel Bridal said the district will work with partners (including the University of South Florida and esports partners) on curriculum frameworks, adjunct professor…
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