Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr., and Lottery Secretary John F. Davis visited Amos P. Godby High School in Tallahassee last week to continue the Keep Florida’s Future Bright Initiative. The program aims to inform students about the Bright Futures Scholarship Program, which provides financial aid for higher education based on academic achievement.
Commissioner Diaz emphasized the importance of early preparation for students aspiring to benefit from the scholarship program. “I am dedicated to ensuring every student is aware of the amazing opportunities available to them through the Bright Futures Scholarship Program,” he stated. He encouraged students interested in either a four-year degree or a technical workforce certificate to start meeting the requirements as soon as possible.
Secretary Davis highlighted education's role in expanding opportunities, saying, "Education is the key to unlocking opportunity, and every student in Florida should know that their future is limitless." He added that through this initiative, they aim to ensure that students realize a brighter future—whether it involves college or a technical career—is achievable.
The Florida Bright Futures Program was created in 1997 and is funded by the Florida Lottery. It has awarded over 1 million scholarships since its inception. The program offers four types of scholarships: Florida Academic Scholarship, Florida Medallion Scholarship, Florida Gold Seal CAPE Scholarship, and Florida Gold Seal Vocational Scholarship.
Current seniors and those seeking state financial aid for the 2025-26 school year must apply by August 31, 2025. More details about these scholarships can be found at Florida Student Scholarship & Grant Programs.