Community Scholars Initiative
Our mission and vision:
A Community of Educational Excellence
Lake Nona community is dedicated to inspiring human potential through innovative collaboration. Committed to sustainable design and education-oriented living, Lake Nona strives to be a model community for education, shaping the next generation of innovators and professionals.
We look to bring that mission and vision to the community's students through the Community Scholars Initiative.
Through partnership and collaboration with the University of Central Florida (UCF), Orange County Public Schools (OCPS), and the School District of Osceola County, Lake Nona and Valencia College have developed supplemental programs to support current classroom curricula tailored to different age levels for elementary, middle, and high school students throughout the area.
As a living lab, Lake Nona is uniquely positioned to envision and develop this model educational ecosystem. With its robust partnerships and culture of collaboration, the Lake Nona community has the capacity to scale this model in a way unlike any other community in the country, expanding access to high-quality, innovative education.
Bridging the gap between students and professionals
Who are STEAM Professionals-in-Residence?
- Passionate volunteers who play a key role in inspiring and shaping the future of students in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM).
- They bring expertise and real-world experience into the classroom, offering valuable insights that help ignite curiosity, foster critical thinking, and deepen students' understanding of key concepts within STEAM.
- By collaborating with teachers, participants create an enriching learning environment that bridges the gap between classroom theory and real-world application.
About the Program
- This initiative connects students with local STEAM professionals, providing inquiry-based, hands-on learning experiences and exposure to potential career pathways.
- STEAM Residents are partnered with a local elementary, middle, or high school, working with faculty to enrich classroom experiences.
- Activities may include guest presentations, co-teaching, mentoring, or advising on student projects, all tailored to the specific needs of each school.
Program Eligibility
- Professionals or graduate students in STEAM fields.
- Minimum of a Master’s degree or 2 years post-baccalaureate professional experience.
- A letter of support from a supervisor or principal investigator.
- Passion for community engagement, mentorship, and expanding access to STEAM education.
- No prior experience in K-12 education is required; training will be provided.
Volunteer Commitment
- Matched with one public school in Lake Nona
- 1 academic year minimum (September to May)
- Minimum of one visit to the partner school per quarter
Can't commit to the full residency?
- Your expertise can still make a meaningful impact on students and the Lake Nona community!
- There are additional opportunities for more flexible involvement, such as guest speaking or supporting specific projects or events.
For more information or to apply, please email us.
Educator Resources
For information on professional development opportunities, community resources and opportunities, STEAM classroom resources and more please join our virtual professional learning community: Canvas site for area Educators.
If you’re a STEAM educator interested in collaborating, accessing additional resources, or getting involved in our initiatives, please email us.
Experiential Learning
With a wealth of unique assets and collaborative spirit, Lake Nona has the potential to become the most robust experiential learning community in the country. Students in the Lake Nona community should have a unique opportunity to learn about a variety of career pathways, particularly in STEAM fields, through internship and job shadowing experiences. Internships and job shadowing are excellent ways to learn, experience real-life careers, and grow your resume.
For more information from our partners, please see below.
- Orange County Public Schools Career and Technical Education
- Osceola County School District Career and Technical Education
- Valencia Internship and Workforce Services
- UCF Experiential Learning
If your business is interested in offering internship or job shadowing opportunities, please email us.
Student Research
The Community Scholars Initiative is committed to connecting our area students to
exciting research opportunities.
For more information, please email us.
Check out research at our partner institutions at the links below.
If your lab or business is interested in offering research opportunities to high school or undergraduate students, please email us.