At the Student ACES Center (The SAC) – a building generously donated by Bank of America in Belle Glade, sustainability and education have come together in an inspiring way. Thanks to a generous donation from Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) and the installation efforts of Advanced Roofing, The SAC now boasts solar panels spanning approximately one-fourth of an acre, producing an impressive 18kW of energy. This solar field is not only reducing energy costs but also providing a valuable, real-life lesson in renewable energy for the students that The SAC serves.
The SAC is more than a program—it’s a lifeline for teenage student-athletes in the Glades Region, where challenges like poverty, crime, and educational inequities are deeply rooted. With a median household income under $33,000, 93% of students on free lunch, and student proficiency in English Language Arts (ELA) and Math trailing behind national averages, opportunities for growth and success can seem distant.
That’s where the team at The SAC steps in, providing a safe, stable, and nurturing environment where students can thrive. Through afterschool and summer programs, The SAC programs focus on academic success, career readiness, college preparation, health and wellness, mental health, character development, and entrepreneurship.
The recent contribution from FPL and Advanced Roofing further enhances the center’s mission. By bringing solar energy to The SAC, these organizations have demonstrated their commitment to both sustainability and education. The installation doesn’t feed back into the grid but instead provides reliable, low-cost, emissions-free power to offset the center’s energy load. The immediate impact is clear: lower energy bills mean more resources can be allocated to the vital programs that serve students at The SAC.
For the students, this solar installation goes beyond just cutting costs—it becomes a source of education and inspiration. With informational resources provided at the center, students can learn firsthand about the importance and functionality of renewable energy. This experience gives them a glimpse into the possibilities that STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) fields can offer, perhaps sparking an interest that will guide them toward future careers in these industries.
By bringing solar energy closer to students, FPL and Advanced Roofing are breaking down barriers to education and opportunity. They are helping to inspire the next generation of STEM leaders—young people who will be equipped to tackle the environmental and technological challenges of tomorrow. For the Glades Region, where opportunity is often scarce, this initiative marks a critical step forward in creating a brighter, more sustainable future.
The solar field at The SAC represents more than just clean energy; it stands as a symbol of hope, innovation, and progress. It highlights the powerful role that corporations and community partners can play in transforming the lives of young people. With every kilowatt of energy produced, the solar installation at SAC is lighting the way to a better, more equitable future—one where students have the tools, resources, and inspiration they need to succeed.