Move to Term Sheet Negotiations for Transformative SEASIDE SCHOOL™ Expansion THE SEASIDE SCHOOL™ proudly announces the unanimous approval of a $9.5 million grant proposal from Triumph Gulf Coast to move to term sheet negotiations for a grant award that will be a transformative investment that will revolutionize the school’s ability to prepare students for college and career success. The Triumph Gulf Coast Board’s action moves the proposal forward from economic review to term sheet review with two further board actions to come before awarding the grant. This funding will support staffing, equipment, and professional development as part of the school’s $40 million capital campaign in partnership with Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) to expand the South Walton campus. @followers

The expanded campus will offer secondary and postsecondary courses and certifications, advising, testing, study space, and a complete schedule for an Associate in Arts degree in Fall 2025. In addition, the Associate Degree program in Business Administration will begin in Fall 2026. This transformational initiative provides high school students with a unique opportunity to earn a college degree alongside their high school diploma.

“This expansion is a game-changer for our students and our community,” said SEASIDE SCHOOL™ Board Chair Andy Jordan. “We are grateful to Triumph Gulf Coast, Northwest Florida State College, and our supporters for helping us provide life-changing opportunities for the next generation.”

The grant will also fuel innovative programming to address workforce demands and prepare students for thriving careers in high-demand industries. Certifications in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship, and drone technology will position SEASIDE SCHOOL™ graduates as highly skilled professionals ready to excel in rapidly evolving job markets.

“Our goal is to equip young adults with the skills and confidence to pursue any calling or career they choose,” said Dr. Tom Miller, Executive Director of THE SEASIDE SCHOOL™. “This grant, combined with our groundbreaking campus expansion, ensures that students in our local communities are not only prepared but also empowered to shape the future.”

The enhanced programming and overall expansion address critical local workforce challenges by eliminating the lengthy commute for dual enrollment and traditional college students from South Walton to Niceville, tripling the number of college graduates annually in Walton County, and creating a pipeline of highly skilled, job-ready professionals for high-wage, high-demand industries. By reducing lateral entry gaps in the local workforce and saving Seacoast High School graduates over $50,000 in college tuition costs, THE SEASIDE SCHOOL™ is not only preparing students for future success but also strengthening Walton County’s economy by cultivating talent that remains and thrives within the community.

“This partnership represents a transformative opportunity for Walton County,” said Triumph Gulf Coast board member Reynolds Henderson. “By equipping students with advanced skills and higher education opportunities, we’re building a foundation for long-term success for both students and our region.”

Dr. Cristie Kedroski, Interim President of NWFSC, added, “We are proud to work alongside THE SEASIDE SCHOOL™ to serve students in South Walton and surrounding communities by offering a complete Associate’s degree program within a short drive from their homes. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to preparing students for the workforce while giving them the tools to succeed academically. The College is committed to enhancing postsecondary education opportunities that meet the needs of Walton County families.”

The new campus will open in Fall 2025 and will serve as a hub of opportunity for students and the local community alike. THE SEASIDE SCHOOL™ is seeking students, passionate educators, and strategic partners to help shape the future of education and drive the economic growth of our region. Be part of this transformative journey—visit SeasideSchools.net to learn more and get involved today!

About THE SEASIDE SCHOOL™. Founded in 1996, THE SEASIDE SCHOOL™ is one of Florida’s oldest and most successful public charter schools, serving students in grades 5-12 through SEASIDE NEIGHBORHOOD SCHOOL™ and Seacoast Collegiate High School with a mission to prepare students for success in college, careers, and beyond through a responsive, challenging, and equitable education model tailored to meet the unique needs of adolescents and young adults. Recognized as a top-performing school in Florida, THE SEASIDE SCHOOL™ has been an “A” school for 21+ consecutive years, ranking in the top 1% of public schools statewide in math and science. Students at THE SEASIDE SCHOOL™ benefit from a tuition-free education valued at over $275,000, complete with up to 60 college credits, robust extracurricular opportunities, and a mission-driven focus on leadership, community service, and personal growth. For more information, visit SeasideSchools.net.

Triumph Gulf Coast Approves $9.5 Million Grant Proposal