Santaluces High School Launches Finance Academy to Equip Students for Financial Careers

The ribbon-cutting ceremony included leaders from the School District, The Education Foundation of Palm Beach County, and Bank of America, emphasizing community collaboration in this initiative.

Dr. Tameka Robinson, Principal of Santaluces High, stated, "This academy represents Santaluces High’s commitment to serving the entire community. By bridging academic rigor with hands-on industry experience, we are opening doors for our students to step directly into high-demand careers and higher education with confidence.”

Funded through a partnership with Bank of America and the Florida School District Education Foundation Matching Grant Program, the four-year Finance Academy offers a college-preparatory curriculum aligned with global financial standards. Students will graduate with a standard high school diploma and can earn up to two industry-recognized certifications in QuickBooks and Program Management.

Beyond traditional classroom learning, participants in the first cohort will have access to financial leaders through guest speakers, real-world work experiences, field trips, and involvement in organizations like Business Professionals of America.

James Gavrilos, President and CEO of the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County, noted the importance of the Finance Academy, stating, "As Palm Beach County becomes home to Wall Street South, jobs in the financial sector will become the career path for so many of our students. The business community’s investment in the Finance Academy at Santaluces High is just one more illustration of their commitment to public education and our youth.”

The academy is part of the District’s Department of Choice and Career Options, which aims to provide innovative pathways for students to build confidence and secure promising opportunities in regional industries. Interested families can apply for the Scaling the Future of Finance program at mypbchoiceapp.com.