The grants, which are written by teachers, fund resources that support and enhance authentic learning such as robotics, STEM and literacy materials, makerspace tools, drones, culinary and fine arts items, and 3D printers. Since its inception in 1999, the foundation has funded over $1.8 million in grants for FISD, according to a press release.
The FEF posts all grants online to allow parents, businesses and community members to invest in a specific classroom, campus or program in the district. The grants are tax deductible and can serve as gifts for teachers.
“The ‘online shopping’ framework of FEF’s Adopt-A-Grant campaign is truly one-of-a-kind,” FEF Director Ashley Adair said in the release. “I love that it provides a very tangible way for our donors to know exactly where their money is going, right down to the very penny.”
The foundation added a “treasure chest” feature this year, in which supporters can donate toward grants at a campus of their choice. Donations to the campus grant treasure chests start at $5, and grant prices range from $50 to $5,000. Every dollar will be used in FISD classrooms to help move the FEF’s mission forward, according to the release.
“FISD teachers truly dreamed big this grant season as the foundation received over 850 grant submissions that will provide even more authentic, real-world learning experiences for our students,” Adair said.
Grants will be for sale online until March 10. After the campaign closes, the foundation will evaluate remaining grants and use funds raised at its annual events to cover as many as possible.
To support the Adopt-A-Grant Campaign, visit fef.myfisd.com/grants and click the yellow button. Browse grants by campus or type a teacher’s last name in the search bar to view grants that will impact their classroom.
