Across Broward County Public Schools, media centers are getting a fresh new look and a whole new purpose. As part of the SMART Bond Program, several schools have transformed their media centers into exciting spaces where students can learn, create, and collaborate.

The newly updated media centers at schools like Piper High, Apollo Middle, Pines Lake Elementary, and Riverside Elementary are bright and full of energy. These spaces now support everything from reading and research to group projects, hands-on learning, and even friendly games of chess between classmates.

The updates include colorful designs, comfortable seating, and modern technology. It’s not just about how the spaces look – it’s about how students and teachers are using them every day. The new layouts make it easier to support different learning styles and help students feel more focused and connected to each other.

At Piper High School, Assistant Principal Patrick Kothe said the SMART Bond helped close resource and technology gaps on their campus. He emphasized how the media center has become a welcoming place for students: “We want them to feel welcome. We want them to feel this is a comfortable, safe space for them to explore their own interests and connect with other people.”

The SMART Bond Program is all about making sure every student has access to safe, modern learning environments. These media centers show what’s possible when schools have the tools they need to grow. Students are more engaged, teachers feel more supported, and the entire school community benefits.

Watch the latest SMART In Action video to see the media center upgrades in action and hear from school faculty as they share how these spaces are making an impact.

Since voters approved the SMART Bond Program in 2014, Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) has been on a mission to transform the student experience across the District. With over $1.4 billion in funding invested into safety, music & art, athletics, renovation, and technology, a lot of schools have seen improvements, and the people who bring our schools to life have stories worth celebrating.

Now, we’re proud to launch the next chapter – SMART In Action – a dynamic video series that brings those stories to life. This campaign highlights how SMART-funded projects are making a lasting difference. From students learning in beautifully renovated media centers to teachers using cutting-edge technology, and families appreciating safer, more modern campuses.

These aren’t just facility upgrades. They are meaningful investments in the future.

SMART In Action features testimonials from students, educators, principals, and community members who have seen the changes firsthand. Whether it’s cleaner air thanks to improved HVAC systems, hands-on learning in new STEM labs, or vibrant spaces for the arts and athletics, the results are real and lasting.

Each voice in the series offers a unique perspective on how the SMART Program has shaped their learning environment. Together, these voices create a powerful reflection of the program’s success.

As the SMART Program nears completion, we invite our community to celebrate how far we’ve come and look ahead to what’s possible. Watch the stories, share in the pride, and see the difference.

A sense of pride and progress filled the campus at Blanche Ely High School on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, as students, staff, and community leaders gathered to celebrate the grand opening of the school’s new bus loop. The ribbon-cutting ceremony, held at 9 a.m., marked a key milestone in the school’s continued SMART Program enhancements aimed at improving safety, accessibility, and the overall student experience.

The celebration began with an energizing performance by the Blanche Ely High School marching band and color guard, setting the tone for a morning full of excitement and school spirit. Guests were treated to refreshments catered by students in the school’s culinary program, showcasing the talents of the student body.

Notable members of the community and school leadership joined the event to recognize the impact of the project. Funded through the SMART Program with an investment of more than $3.7 million, the improvements included the reconstruction and expansion of the existing bus drop-off area, new aluminum walkways that connect to the main building, upgraded lighting, enhanced drainage systems, and repairs to perimeter fencing.

Additional upgrades included a new screen wall that encloses the school’s cooling towers, helping improve both safety and the visual appeal of the campus. With these enhancements in place, the school community can look forward to a more secure and efficient arrival and dismissal experience.

“We are incredibly excited to have our bus loop completed and that our students will use this area for years to come,” said Blanche Ely High School Principal Tavures Williams. “I want to thank the school board, district staff, and the Broward County taxpayers for your investment and your trust.”

“This new bus loop and covered walkways were made possible by the SMART Program, which continues to make a meaningful impact on our schools,” said Debra Hixon, Chair of the Broward County School Board.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony served as a proud reminder of the power of community collaboration and the importance of continued investment in student success. Blanche Ely High School’s new bus loop is officially open and ready to support students for years to come.

Stay tuned to the SMART Futures blog for more updates on projects across Broward County Public Schools.

Spirits were high at Park Springs Elementary School on the morning of February 6th, 2025. That day, the school debuted the newly renovated music and art rooms with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Students, parents, and teachers were also excited to see the newly revamped roofing and HVAC systems throughout the entire campus.

Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) and the SMART program poured over $9 million dollars of SMART Bond funds into renovating the campus’ infrastructure to be a safe learning environment and a creative inspiration to an entire student body of bright stars-in-the-making.

The modernization took shape in the form of renovations to the roofs and classrooms throughout the entire campus, which included the floors and furniture of the music room. There’s a brand-new layout for the teacher’s office, and the art room got some upgrades of its own with new storage shelving, a new art sink, updated ceilings, and fresh floor finishes.

“This new space symbolizes not just the growth of our facility, but the blossoming of creativity and expression within our students” highlighted District 4 School Board Member Lori Alhadeff. The improvements brought a transmittable glimmer to Superintendent Dr. Howard Hepburn, who attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The grand opening doubled as a showcase of many talents. Park Springs Elementary School’s chorus performed in front of the delighted attendees, who were also served breakfast made by the Coral Springs High School Culinary program. The event was an exhibit of potential and highlighted Broward County Public Schools’ devotion to fostering a love for learning.

These renovations by the BCPS and the SMART program give students the opportunity to thrive in creative spaces that are suitable to their needs.
The completion of this project is a positive reflection for students, staff, parents, and leadership. The SMART Program and Broward County Public Schools are on a clear mission to enhance educational facilities across the District to give tomorrow’s stars opportunities that will allow them to shine. This is one of 169 projects that has already been completed, with many more projects in progress.