With educational dollars growing tighter, some teachers have been digging into their own pockets to help fund unique and creative programs for their students.
In an effort to assist teachers and provide students with enhanced educational opportunities, the rejuvenated Lake Orion Educational Foundation has been awarding mini-grants for programs that meet certain criteria.
Last Wednesday, Michael Palmer, outgoing LOEF president, presented $10,000 in mini-grants to 23 teachers and educators during the Board of Education meeting.
Palmer said at least one teacher from each of the district’s schools received one of the financial awards, which total more than $25,000 during the past year.
Each of the recipients was required to complete and submit an application for review by the Foundation to qualify for a mini-grant, said Palmer.
The grants are awarded twice a year, with the next application deadline set for April 8. Nearly 50 applications were reviewed for consideration in the most recent selection process.
The LOEF was resurrected about two years ago after a long hiatus, said Palmer. The organization, overseen by elected officers and a board of trustees, has 501C3 tax exempt status.
‘We want to thank and acknowledge the efforts of all these teachers who went over and beyond, because they care for our kids,? said Palmer.
The largest grant, $1,500, was awarded to Sarah Perry of Lake Orion High School for a modern language technology lab.
Other LOEF mini-grants ranged from $96 to $785. The recipients were: J. Briner, H. Evans, T. Oberle and D. Kenwell, Blanche Sims Elementary; Marianne O’Neill and Patti Lareau, Carpenter Elementary; Teresa West, Orion Oaks Elementary; Jackie Storts, Marilyn Crandall and Carly Riddle, Paint Creek Elementary; Denise Skiba, Kristsen Richard and Maire Arrnijo, Pine Tree Elementary; Darlene Frederick, Katie Kirchner, Aira Fornwall and Carrie Price, Stadium Drive Elementary; Melissa Berndt, Webber Elementary; Jody Greenburg, Donna Veara and Sandra Fischer, Oakview Middle School; Carol Bingesser and Kim McCool, Scripps Middle School; Daniel Hunter, Jennifer Gosselin and Marty Green, Waldon Middle School; D. DePauw, T. Inglis and J. Brewer, Lake Orion High School; and Jessica Sanford, CERC.
The LOEF’s primary fundraiser is a June 19 golf outing at Devil’s Ridge. Sponsors are needed for the event.
‘Our hope is to raise more funds this year, so we can continue to help kids,? Palmer said.
For more information about the LOEF, call (248)814-6808.