Broward Education Foundation successfully hosted the Broward Teachers Union 28th Annual Innovative Teacher IDEA EXPO Presented by Office Depot on Saturday, February 1, at Fort Lauderdale High School. This highly anticipated event brought together passionate educators from across Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) to explore and exchange innovative teaching strategies that enhance student learning outcomes.
The expo featured more than 35 grant-winning innovative teacher disseminators who showcased their dynamic projects, providing attendees with actionable insights, lesson plans, resource lists, and adaptable classroom tools. Teachers had the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions, discover creative approaches to curriculum implementation, and apply for Adapter Grants, which offer funding and in-service points to educators who adopt award-winning programs in their own classrooms.
This year’s keynote speaker, Pat Yongpradt, Chief Academic Officer of Code.org, delivered an inspiring presentation titled Making the Most of the AI Opportunity. Yongpradt emphasized the critical role artificial intelligence plays in shaping a smarter, more inclusive, and innovative future for education, encouraging educators to embrace AI-driven strategies in their teaching methods.
Reflecting on the event’s impact, Dr. Howard Hepburn, Superintendent of Broward County Public Schools, expressed his appreciation for the dedicated educators in attendance. “The IDEA EXPO is a shining example of the commitment our teachers have to innovation and excellence. Their willingness to explore new teaching methodologies and collaborate with peers strengthens our district’s ability to provide high-quality education to every student.”
James A. Knapp, President & CEO of Broward Education Foundation, also shared his enthusiasm for the event’s success. “At Broward Education Foundation, we are honored to provide a platform that empowers educators to bring fresh ideas into their classrooms. Events like the IDEA EXPO exemplify the power of collaboration and continuous learning, ensuring that our students are equipped with the skills needed for success in an ever-evolving world.”
The event was made possible through the generous support of partners including Broward Teachers Union, Office Depot, the State of Florida District Education Foundation’s matching grants program, Education First Employee Giving Campaign, City of Hollywood, Bank of America, Grand Canyon University, BrightStar Credit Union, JM Family Enterprises, Saint Thomas University, Regions Bank, NTA Life, Wahoo Bay, Seacoast Bank, University of West Florida, and Fort Lauderdale High School.
Broward Education Foundation remains committed to fostering innovation in the classroom through monetary grants and strategic partnerships that advance educational excellence in BCPS.
For more information about the Innovative Teacher IDEA EXPO and future opportunities, visit browardedfoundation.org.
About Broward Education Foundation:
The nonprofit Broward Education Foundation aligns with Broward County Public Schools by providing grants for teachers who develop innovative curriculum that increases student outcomes; vitally needed school supplies for students and teachers in Title I schools; scholarships for qualified high school seniors; and support for programs and initiatives like Debate, TurnAround Arts, STEM and more. Each year, Broward Education Foundation contributes nearly $5 million to Broward County schools, serving as the catalyst for educational excellence. For more information, visit Broward Education Foundation, email BEFInfo@browardschools.com, and like or follow us on Facebook , X, Instagram and LinkedIn.
