The Challenge
Port St. Lucie's youth represent our city's future, yet many young residents lack access to the programs and opportunities they need to thrive. With over 40,000 students in St. Lucie Public Schools, we must ensure every child has pathways to success—whether through college preparation, vocational training, or mentorship programs that build character and leadership skills.
40,000+
Students in St. Lucie Public Schools
15+
High schools with CTE programs
3-7pm
Critical after-school hours when youth need support
Steven's Plan
Expand After-School Programs
The hours between 3pm and 7pm are when young people are most vulnerable to negative influences. My administration will:
- Partner with St. Lucie Public Schools to expand existing after-school programs at all grade levels
- Increase funding for city recreation centers to offer affordable, high-quality programming including sports, arts, and STEM activities
- Create a citywide youth jobs program for teens to gain work experience and earn money during summer months
- Establish homework help centers staffed by volunteers and retired educators at community centers across PSL
Strengthen Vocational Training
Not every student will attend a four-year college, and that's okay. We need to celebrate and support all career paths:
- Expand Career and Technical Education (CTE) partnerships with Treasure Coast High School, Port St. Lucie High School, and St. Lucie West Centennial High School
- Partner with Indian River State College to increase dual enrollment opportunities for high school students
- Create apprenticeship pipelines connecting students with local trades, construction, and manufacturing employers
- Support industry certification programs in healthcare, IT, culinary arts, and skilled trades
- Host annual Career Expo bringing together students, parents, and local employers to explore opportunities
Youth Mentorship and Leadership
Every young person deserves a positive role model who believes in their potential:
- Launch the Mayor's Youth Council to give high school students direct input on city decisions and develop future leaders
- Expand partnerships with Big Brothers Big Sisters and Boys & Girls Clubs to increase mentorship matches
- Create a citywide mentorship database connecting professionals with students interested in their fields
- Establish leadership academies teaching public speaking, civic engagement, and community organizing
- Recognize outstanding youth through annual awards and public acknowledgment of achievements
Why This Matters
Investing in our youth isn't just the right thing to do—it's essential for Port St. Lucie's future. When we provide young people with opportunities, mentorship, and skills, we:
- Reduce crime and delinquency by keeping youth engaged in positive activities
- Build a skilled local workforce that attracts employers and strengthens our economy
- Increase high school graduation rates and post-secondary success
- Create a pipeline of future leaders who will continue improving our community
- Strengthen families by providing support systems that help parents raise successful children
Existing Resources to Build Upon
Port St. Lucie already has strong foundations we can expand:
- St. Lucie Public Schools CTE Programs - Career academies at every high school offering industry certifications
- Indian River State College - Dual enrollment, workforce training, and summer youth programs
- CareerSource Research Coast - Youth employment programs and career counseling
- Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County - After-school programs with career exploration
- City Recreation Department - Sports leagues, summer camps, and youth activities
The Bottom Line
Our children are Port St. Lucie's greatest asset. As Mayor, I will make youth development a top priority—ensuring every young person has access to quality after-school programs, vocational training options that lead to good jobs, and mentors who help them reach their full potential. When our youth succeed, our entire community thrives.