The Foundation for Seminole County Public Schools is honored to recognize a generous $46,500 donation from the family of the late Dede Schaffner to the Dede Schaffner Follow Your Dreams Scholarship. Dede’s children—Leslie Kleeb, Debra Smith, and Bill Schaffner—have made this heartfelt contribution to ensure the scholarship continues in perpetuity, awarding two $1,000 scholarships annually to graduating SCPS seniors.

Established by her family to carry on her legacy, the Follow Your Dreams Scholarship reflects Dede Schaffner’s lifelong commitment to education and youth. Dede was a passionate advocate for children, tirelessly serving on the Seminole County School Board, participating in countless civic organizations, and supporting numerous educational initiatives. Her dedication helped shape the lives of students throughout Seminole County.

Dede’s leadership was instrumental in the founding of The Foundation in 1987, and throughout the years she remained a driving force behind every program we’ve offered—including Arts Alive, Tools 4 Seminole Schools, G  rants for Great Ideas, Scholarships, Midway Safe Harbor, and the Physics Bus. Her belief in the power of education and community collaboration left an indelible mark on our schools and the lives of countless students and teachers.

We are incredibly grateful to the Schaffner family for this meaningful gift. Their generosity not only honors Dede’s memory but also ensures that her mission to support the dreams of students in Seminole County will live on for generations to come.

Thank you, Leslie, Debra, and Bill, for continuing Dede’s legacy of service, leadership, and love for education.