Gov. Scott Gives Broward Schools $15 Million

SUNRISE (CBS4) – A big day for Broward Schools and an even bigger day for one school in particular.

On Monday Governor Rick Scott delivered a check for $15 million to the cash strapped school district as part of the state's School Recognition Program which gives financial rewards to schools based on sustained or significantly improved student achievement in reading, mathematics, science, and writing.

Scott made the presentation at Piper High in Sunrise because of their achievement.

Last year, Piper jumped two grades and went from a C school to an A school. Because of this monumental accomplishment they will receive $200,000 from the district's 'School Recognition Fund'.

Schools can use their award dollars for faculty or staff bonuses, to purchase educational equipment or materials, or hire temporary staff to help maintain or improve student performance. Statewide, school recognition funding totals more than $134 million.

As part of his Florida Families First Budget, Governor Scott requested an increase in School Recognition Program funding to $125 per student, up from $93 this year.

Piper's students say they have very dedicated teachers who deserve the recognition and the extra cash too.

"In my freshman year, when I had that one teacher who believed in me and then I started believing in myself and that's when I started believing in myself and that catapulted me toward success and academic achievements," said Piper senior Valery Raymond.

Piper's principal Enid Valdez promised the money would be well spent.

"It's going to go towards technology, improving student programs, also recognizing faculty and staff who work countless hours, in many cases for free, before school after school," said Valdez. "It's great, it's really wonderful."