ORLANDO – The Smith Family Legacy Endowment Association (S.F.L.E.) has proudly recognized Eccleston Elementary School as the recipient of its 2025 Education & Community Excellence Award. This distinguished honor celebrates institutions that have made a profound impact on education and community development.
Eccleston Elementary stands on historic ground—originally donated by local dentist and philanthropist Dr. Cecil Eccleston for the Eccleston-Callahan Memorial Hospital for Crippled Children. In 1958, the site was transformed into Eccleston Elementary School, which has since become a cornerstone of education in Orlando’s southwest corridor. For 67 years, it has shaped young minds, fostering academic growth and opportunity for thousands of students.
About the Smith Family Legacy Endowment Association (S.F.L.E.): Founded in 2023 by the children and grandchildren of the late Mother Constance Patricia Smith (1931–2003), the Smith Family Legacy Endowment Association is dedicated to community progress and educational empowerment. Every two years, S.F.L.E. honors an outstanding educational institution or outreach program that has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to youth development and community service. The Endowment’s mission is to expand opportunities and access to education, paving the way for a brighter future for students in Central Florida.
Past Impact and Ongoing Commitment – In 2023, Jones High School was named the inaugural S.F.L.E. Award recipient. Since its inception, the Endowment has focused its high school contributions on enhancing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and athletic programs. Its support for elementary schools has included classroom supplies, student incentives, and educational field trips, enriching the learning experience for young scholars.
Through initiatives like the Education & Community Excellence Award, S.F.L.E. continues to honor institutions that uplift and inspire, reinforcing its commitment to educational advancement and community transformation.
