Local business makes major donation to Alachua County high school career-tech academy

Press release from Alachua County Public Schools

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – For the second straight year, the Gettel Automotive Group in Gainesville, which includes Gatorland Toyota and BMW of Gainesville, has donated $25,000 to the Academy of Automotive Technology at the Professional Academies Magnet@Loften High School.

During a ceremony at the school today, representatives from Gettel Group presented the check to representatives from the school and the district, including PAM@Loften principal Kris Bracewell, Academy Director Raymond Fayo, and Alachua County Public Schools Superintendent Shane Andrew.

“I would like to thank the Gettel Group, Gatorland Toyota, and BMW of Gainesville for their generous donation to the Automotive Technology program for the second year in a row,” said Fayo. “With this year’s donation, we are looking into purchasing a vehicle or testing stands for demonstration purposes.”

“At Gatorland Toyota and BMW of Gainesville, we are more than happy to support Lofton High School’s Automotive program,” said Tyler Hill, General Manager of Gatorland Toyota and BMW of Gainesville. “Giving back to our local community is a fundamental part of our mission, and we’re proud to contribute to the education and development of future automotive professionals.”

There are currently 37 students enrolled in the program. Many of the program’s students earn industry certifications while still in school, and many graduates have gone on to successful careers in the automotive industry.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Gettel Foundation for the generous donations to the Academy,” said Bracewell. “The support not only enhances our students’ learning experience but also empowers them with the skills needed to succeed in the automotive industry.”

There are currently about 5,700 middle and high school students enrolled in career tech programs throughout the district. Those programs include 16 career academies, such as the Academy of Automotive Technology, and many other CTE courses. Through the various programs, ACPS students earn industry certifications, participate in internships and other work-based learning opportunities, earn college scholarships, and participate in industry-related student organizations.

All of the district’s career technical education programs are supported by advisory boards made up of local professionals with expertise in that field.

“Career and Technical Education programs rely heavily on the support of community partners,” said Shannon Ritter, director of the district’s CTE programs. ”Our students in the Academy of Automotive Technology are fortunate to have organizations like the Gettel Foundation willing to invest in their futures.”

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