The Kent Schools Foundation recently awarded a record-breaking $67,000 in grants across 131 projects at 35 schools as part of its Classroom Enrichment program.

These grants are the highest amount ever distributed in the foundation’s history, directly funding innovative and enriching projects that benefit Kent School District students, according to a Kent Schools Foundation December press release. Members of the Kent Schools Foundation Board and Grants Committee personally visited each school to present staff with certificates celebrating their impactful proposals.

“It is very heartwarming that we were able to help so many Kent School District teachers and staff with projects,” said Allyson Johnson, president of the foundation.

Grants funded a wide array of initiatives tailored to meet the diverse needs of Kent students, including:

• Class sets of books to enhance literacy programs

• STEM toys for libraries and technology classes to spark curiosity and innovation

• Art materials and books to nurture creativity

• Flexible seating options to support varied learning styles

• A washer and dryer for life skills classes, building independence and real-world skills

• Support for schoolwide events like Battle of the Books

• Field trips to provide experiential learning opportunities

A few of the specific grants to teachers included:

• Brandy Ingham – Sawyer Woods Elementary – Museum of Flight field trip

• Helen Pacheco – Kentlake High – Spanish digital reading program

• Corey McMillan – Cedar Valley Elementary – Preschool literacy materials

• Sarah Whinnery – Jenkins Creek Elementary – Kindergarten Purposeful Play

• Robin Marie – Kentwood High – Life Skills Collaboration Group

“This partnership exemplifies the power of community collaboration,” said Israel Vela, Kent School District superintendent. “We are deeply grateful to the Kent Schools Foundation for their commitment to enhancing the educational experience for all our students. These grants directly impact classrooms, empowering educators and enriching the lives of our students.”

The Kent Schools Foundation, according to its website, brings together parents, teachers, businesses and community leaders to enrich school environments and to support students needing extra help. It strives to bridge the shortfall between basic funding provided by the state of Washington and what is truly required to bring educational excellence to every child, in every classroom, every day.

To learn more and find out how you can support future grant cycles, visit kentschoolsfoundation.org.