BCPS students take to the tennis courts for new lessons through partnership with the Sloane Stephens Foundation

Broward County, Florida – Students across Broward County Public Schools are trading textbooks for tennis rackets this semester thanks to a new partnership with the Sloane Stephens Foundation. Through the initiative, select schools are receiving tennis instructors and equipment to provide lessons during physical education classes—all at no cost to the District or participating schools. The program aims to introduce students to a new sport while promoting fitness, confidence, and life skills.

Sloane Stephens, a native of Broward County and 2017 U.S. Open champion, has dedicated her foundation to enhancing youth education and wellness through tennis. Once ranked #3 in the world, Stephens brings both professional expertise and a local connection to the effort. Her foundation focuses on creating constructive opportunities for young people, encouraging healthy lifestyles, and expanding educational access. By partnering with BCPS, the foundation hopes to make tennis more accessible to children who may not have had the opportunity to play before.

The first phase of the three-year initiative will launch in seven District schools, coordinated through the BCPS Applied Learning Department. Schools participating in the program include Collins Elementary, Driftwood Elementary, Gulfstream Academy of Hallandale K–8, Lake Forest Elementary, Mary M. Bethune Elementary, Sanders Park Elementary, and Silver Palms Elementary. As additional funding becomes available, the program plans to expand to more schools across the District.

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District 1 School Board Member Maura McCarthy Bulman spearheaded the effort and emphasized the broader benefits of introducing tennis to students. “This partnership is about more than learning a sport, it is about giving our students opportunities to build confidence, stay active and develop new skills for lifelong fitness,” Bulman said. “I thank our entire School Board for supporting this initiative, which will positively impact students across our District. We are excited to bring tennis into our schools and appreciate the Sloane Stephens Foundation for investing in our students.”

Teachers and physical education staff are optimistic about the new program. Beyond teaching tennis fundamentals, the lessons will help students develop coordination, sportsmanship, and strategic thinking. Many of the students had never picked up a tennis racket before, and the enthusiasm on the courts has been noticeable. From serving practice to friendly matches, the program encourages active participation while fostering a sense of accomplishment and teamwork.

Parents have also welcomed the initiative, seeing it as an opportunity for children to explore a new sport without the financial burden often associated with tennis lessons. By providing professional coaching and equipment directly in schools, the program removes traditional barriers and ensures that more students can benefit from this unique experience.

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The collaboration underscores a shared commitment to student wellness and skill development, highlighting how local partnerships can enhance educational opportunities in meaningful ways. As the program progresses, BCPS hopes to track participation, engagement, and the impact on students’ overall fitness and confidence. For more information on the Sloane Stephens Foundation and its initiatives, visit https://www.sloanestephensfoundation.org.

With rackets in hand and excitement on the courts, BCPS students are now stepping into a new chapter of physical education—one that combines skill, health, and a love for the game.