MCSD announces Community GEMS

John Padgett and the Golden Fleece Foundation were recognized with the distinguished Community GEMS Award by the Monroe County School District for the enormous support they have given in many areas that support students. Mr. Padgett initiated the Take Stock in Children Program under the aegis of the Monroe County Educational Foundation to provide low-income students with the ability to obtain a college degree.  Monroe Computes in another major program Mr. Padgett began that provides monetary incentives to students in the area of technology.  An average of $70,000 a year is given to students in grades 4-12 who pass industry certifications. Pictured presenting the GEMS Award to Mr. Padgett is MCSD Coordinator of Community Relations, Amber Archer Acevedo.