Toyota USA Foundation partners with FCS

Fulton County Schools (FCS) kicked off the new school year with an inspiring and energetic celebration, as small groups of students engaged in lively discussions with industry science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) experts. These students were learning more than just engineering and science —they were discovering firsthand how the skills they learn in the classroom are applied by a global powerhouse like Toyota. Thanks to the generosity of Toyota and Toyota Financial, this was just the beginning of an exciting journey.

On August 22, 2024, at Banneker High School, FCS and the Fulton Education Foundation announced a groundbreaking partnership with the Toyota USA Foundation, which includes up to $8.6 million in grants over the next five years. This collaboration, part of Toyota's Driving Possibilities initiative, is designed to empower FCS students with cutting-edge resources and hands-on learning experiences that will prepare them for future careers in STEM.

This exciting initiative goes beyond financial support, it is about building sustainable programs that will have a lasting impact on students’ lives. The focus is on three key areas: expanding resources at Student and Family Engagement (SAFE) Centers located at Banneker and Tri-Cities high schools, integrating STEM learning into the Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) curriculum, and providing specialized professional development for FCS educators in partnership with Kennesaw State University’s Bagwell College of Education.

The announcement event also featured tours of the SAFE Center and the district’s new Mobile Learning Center, where guests could see the tangible benefits that Toyota’s support will bring to the community. These facilities will play a crucial role in ensuring that every student has access to the resources they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

With nearly $2.3 million earmarked for the first year, this initiative is poised to lay the groundwork for a comprehensive and innovative STEM education program. Toyota and FCS are working together to close educational gaps, ensuring that all students are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed for the careers of tomorrow.

This partnership is much more than a single donation or financial commitment, it is a bold step toward a brighter future for our students.