Innovative Education Support

We believe in supporting teachers, counselors and administrators so they can better support their students. To do this, the Foundation provides 1) funding for new or expanded classroom projects and 2) fully-paid trips to professional development conferences.

Non-Traditional Learning Opportunities

The Foundation recognizes that students today learn differently from their predecessors. Funding K-12 STREAM projects helps educators present content in ways that meet students’ needs. Typical donations range from $1,000 to $5,000. Donations are restricted for the project’s use. Winning staff members’ districts receive payment upon receipt of the district’s W-9.

Educator Professional Development

School districts have limited funding for trips to professional development conferences. Many times, staff members must pay for these trips themselves. The Foundation believes in supporting professional development. We believe that what’s learned benefits all students and staff. Staff members in K-12 schools are eligible. Registration and travel expenses are covered up to $3,000. Funds are paid to the winner’s school district upon receipt of its W-9.

Typical Conferences

Typical offerings include the American School Counselor Association Conference, the Association for Positive Behavior Support Conference, the Innovative Schools Summit and the Southeast School Climate Conference.

Here’s what school professionals are saying.

  • “I have a student that really struggled in math. By participating in the robotics program (made possible by this donation) I’ve seen her translate her new knowledge of coding into her work in the classroom. It’s great to see her really shine.”
    Brittany Patterson, Middle School Teacher
  • “At year 40, I’ve worked in some very tough environments, and I reassess every year, because technically I could retire. But this conference brought me back to why I do this and reignited me to keep going a while longer.”
    Ann Hughes, District Director of Behavioral Health
  • “There are a lot of high-paying, high-demand jobs in this area in welding and metal machining. It’s really exciting to use this grant to open up that opportunity for my students and for them to be career-ready when they graduate.”
    Brandon Noto, CTE Welding Teacher