Education advisory board pitches 'Cooper City Civic Scholar' pilot, asks commission for $5,500

Jenna McClure, presenting for the Education Advisory Board, asked the commission to fund a pilot 'Cooper City Civic Scholar Program' aimed at middle-school students. The program would give scholars a "passport" of civic tasks they complete over several months, finish with a 500-word essay and receive a Cooper City Civic Scholar medallion at a City Hall reception.

"We were very careful to make sure the passports don't have dates on them so that we can use them again," McClure said, outlining outreach through schools and social media. She requested $5,500 for the first year to pay for passports, medals and a reception; the board said the usual allotment is $4,000 but the group needs an extra $1,500 to cover startup costs. Commissioners expressed broad support for the idea and asked staff to ensure the program reaches multiple middle schools and civics teachers. Commissioner Katzmann, who sponsored the presentation, said he was "happy to sponsor tonight's presentation" and praised the Education Advisory Board's work.

Staff indicated they would include the request in the next budget review and work with the board on implementation details, including outreach to teachers and a modest reception at City Hall. The commission did not take immediate final action on the funding request but affirmed support for the pilot and directed staff to coordinate details and budget placement.