Suffolk Public Schools proudly celebrates Dr. Laguna Foster and the Jaguar Team at King’s Fork Middle School for being named recipients of the 2025 Christine Darden STEM Family Engagement Award. Presented annually, this award honors exceptional efforts in building strong family-school-community partnerships that support student success in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Dr. Foster and his team were recognized for their outstanding work in advancing STEM education through meaningful family engagement initiatives. Their innovative programs have not only enriched student learning experiences but have also empowered families to actively participate in their children's academic journeys. By connecting classroom learning to real-world STEM careers and leveraging community resources, the Jaguar Team has created an inclusive and inspiring environment for students and families alike.

Named after Dr. Christine Darden, a pioneering mathematician and engineer whose groundbreaking work at NASA helped shape aerospace research and inspired the iconic book and movie Hidden Figures, the award celebrates leaders who break barriers and open doors in STEM education.

"Dr. Foster and the Jaguar Team exemplify what it means to be trailblazers in education," said SPS Superintendent Dr. John B. Gordon III. "Their passion for fostering family involvement and community collaboration in STEM is not only elevating student achievement but also creating a blueprint for engagement that can serve schools across the nation."

Congratulations to Dr. Foster and the entire King’s Fork Middle School community for this remarkable honor.