Chamber’s Race for Education 5K Raises Money for Microgrants at Schools

by David Volz November 10, 2025

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Local teachers who were honored with microgrants at the Race for Education. {David Volz}

Sharon Campbell ran in the inaugural Race for Education 5K run at Tradewinds Park on the morning of November 8.

She took first place in the age 61 to 70 female division and enjoyed the experience. “It was great and I had a good time this morning,” said Campbell, a resident of Coral Springs.

The event was organized by the Coral Springs Coconut Creek Regional Chamber of Commerce, and the funds raised supported 11 microgrants totaling $500 each for teachers in Coconut Creek and Coral Springs public schools.

Campbell was joined by her friend Laurent Laski, a former teacher and now a realtor, who belongs to the chamber. “I have not been running recently, but I wanted to participate in this race. It was fun and I like supporting education,” she said.

The overall male winner was Rafael Cuza. During the race, he pushed a stroller carrying his son, Lucas. “This was a good race, and I had a good time,” he said this morning.

Coral Springs Mayor Scott Brook addressed the runners before the race and then ran. “I enjoyed this race and there was a lot of positive energy,” he said.

After the race, the microgrants were distributed to teachers. To be considered for the grants, teachers had to submit a classroom project idea to a committee. The teachers with the best ideas received the grants, according to Dr. Jermaine Fleming, North Region Superintendent.

Adam Nardelli, who teaches marine science at Monarch High School, received a grant and will use the money towards a field trip so his students can tag sharks with a program at the University of Miami. “Last year we tagged several sharks, and the students loved it,” he said.

John Place, who participated in the race and teaches video production at Coral Springs High School, received a grant and said he will use the money to buy microphones. His colleague, Rita Daire, who teaches pottery at Coral Springs, received a grant and said she will use the funds to purchase special glazes and more clay.

Coconut Creek Mayor Jackie Railey was glad to see people coming together for a community event. “I am glad we could have such a positive event in our city. I am glad to see people coming together to have fun and raise money for education,” she said.

Chamber president Charinus Davis said about 375 people ran in the race, and said it will take place again next year. “I want it to be bigger next year and raise more money for schools,” she said.

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Author Profile

David Volz

David Volz has worked as a writer in South Florida for 35 years. He has written for the Sun-Sentinel, Hollywood Gazette, School Transportation News, South Dade News Leaders, Observer among others. He has an MA in Communications from Florida Atlantic University and a BA in Communications from Valparaiso University. Volz teaches Communications at Miami Dade College and Palm Beach State College. He lives in Coral Springs and enjoys running and participating in 5Ks and half-marathons.