Page 56 - LIN_April_2026_web-file

Grace Place:

Two Decades of Transforming Lives Through Education in Golden Gate

or more than twenty years, Grace Place for Children kindergarten through fifth grade students with after-school literacy,
and Families has stood as a steadfast beacon of hope in STEAM, and enrichment activities. It strengthens reading and
F the heart of the Golden Gate community—just beyond critical thinking skills while helping students overcome language
Interstate 75, in the most densely populated neighborhood of barriers. For elementary students who may struggle to participate
English Language Learners in all of Collier County. fully in the school day, these hours after school become a vital
Since opening its doors in 2004, Grace Place has upheld a bridge to academic confidence.
mission that is both simple and profound: to provide pathways In middle school, students join a program designed to help
out of poverty by educating children and families together. Today, them look forward—literally. The middle school program offers
the organization operates on a 4.5-acre campus with over 120 early career exposure by allowing students to explore STEAM
dedicated staff, supporting children and adults across a continuum fields aligned with their interests. Through hands-on learning and
of programs. specialized activities, students build skills, gain confidence, and
At Grace Place, learning is not something that happens in a expand their career horizons, empowering them to envision and
single classroom, nor is it reserved for one age group at a time. pursue future career opportunities. Middle school students also
Instead, education is a shared journey—one that strengthens receive academic support that reinforces what they are learning
entire families, creates opportunity that lasts, and lifts the wider during the school day.
Collier County community. Each year, more than 1,300 students, For high school students, the program provides leadership
children and adults, participate in Grace Place programs, forming a development, mentoring, and college and career preparation.
continuum of educational programs that begin in the earliest years Through four targeted cohorts—Freshman 101, English Express,
of childhood and continue into adulthood. TechWorks, and Scholars—students gain guidance and skill-
A Family Learning Model that Works building opportunities that prepare them for life beyond graduation.
Grace Place is best known for its nationally recognized Bright Meanwhile, their parents are in classrooms of their own.
Beginnings Family Literacy Model for infants through age four. Through Adult Education, Grace Place equips learners with English
These early learning classrooms are language-rich environments language proficiency, digital and financial literacy, citizenship
where young children develop early literacy, social-emotional skills, preparation, and workforce readiness skills. When parents grow
and school readiness. Teachers blend structured routines with more confident and capable, their children thrive alongside them.
curiosity-driven instruction, helping children feel confident, and The Results Speak for Themselves
eager to learn. Grace Place’s two-generational model produces data-backed
For many families, Bright Beginnings is their first introduction outcomes that are both measurable and transformative:
to a formal learning environment in the United States. Grace Place 93% of preschoolers enter kindergarten school-ready
welcomes the entire household, offering English literacy classes for 97% of middle school students credit Grace Place with their
every family member. Parents learn how to support their children’s academic success
academic journey; children watch their parents study and grow. In 100% of high school students graduate on time with plans for
these classrooms, literacy becomes the foundation for long-term college or career training
stability, higher education, and economic mobility. 16 students passed the citizenship test
As students grow, Grace Place continues walking with them These results reflect a model built on consistency, community
in our after-school programs. The elementary program supports trust, and a deep understanding of the challenges Golden Gate
families face every day.
56 www.LifeInNaples.net