December 6, 2024

EMPORIA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

ANNOUNCES EMPORIA PUBLIC SCHOOL ENDOWMENT FUND AWARDS

The Emporia Public School Endowment Fund with the Emporia Community Foundation awards grants once a year for non-budgetary items for USD 253 classrooms.

Teachers can apply for grants up to $750 with preference given to projects that incorporate alternative learning strategies, represent creative teaching ideas, include innovative approaches to the accomplishment of objectives, or motivate students and activate their eagerness to be life-long learners.

Linda Kehres-Schmidt, executive director for the Emporia Community Foundation recently delivered checks to the grantees on behalf of the committee who reviewed the applications submitted. “It’s an honor to present funding in support of the teachers in our schools who not only educate our students, but through their innovative approach and creative ideas they inspire learning in a new way.”

Rylee Hendrikse, a 4th Grade Teacher at Timmerman Elementary School expressed her gratitude by saying, “Thank you so much! Our 4th grade team is so very appreciative!” She went on to explain that the funding will help purchase items to aid students in creating their own product to sell in a business-like scenario. “Students will experience a hands-on, real-world opportunity to explore economics in a way that lets students' creativity flow freely,” she stated.

At Emporia High School, the Science Department Chair, Matt Irby said, “That’s great to hear and thank you so much. “The money will be used to restore the retention pond and transform part of the surrounding area to represent a native, tallgrass prairie area, which will allow various science classes to conduct hands-on labs and research to supplement courses. It will not only be a great resource for ongoing student research, but it will also be an area that the public can appreciate and enjoy as well.”

Other funding went to Timmerman Elementary School for regulation tools for all students as they focus on high academic achievement and social emotional development. Sensory items purchased will help with sensory processing which affect self-regulation, focus and attention, connection feelings, self-awareness and more.

To learn about the grant opportunities at the Emporia Community Foundation visit www.emporiacf.org. or call (620) 342-9304.