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The Education Foundation for Isle of Wight County Public Schools was able to fully fund all grant requests submitted by area teachers thanks to the generosity of local businesses and individuals who attended the Students First Gala.

Twelve teachers representing five schools in Isle Wight County Public Schools submitted grant requests totaling more than $17,000.

The grant requests ranged from recycling initiatives, xylophones and kitchen equipment for the Daily Living Skills Equipment for Applied Studies Program, to tying in history and the struggle many veterans have through a Veterans Mental Health Awareness Rock Garden.

“The requests represent a wide range of innovative and creative means by county teachers to keep students engaged and interested in learning,” said Andrea May, Education Foundation board president. “The foundation is extremely pleased to be able to fund all of these grants.” 

The main funding for the grants was received through donations from local businesses and individuals who attended the annual Student’s First Dinner and Auction Gala held at the Smithfield Center in November. More than $20,000 was raised at that event.

The remaining funds will go towards funding Teacher of the Year awards as well as two scholarships awarded to graduating seniors from Windsor and Smithfield high schools.

The mission of the Education Foundation for Isle of Wight County Public Schools is to secure and provide additional financial resources that will support and enhance an exemplary educational experience for all students in Isle of Wight public schools.

To learn more about the Education Foundation and to see the grants in action, visit www.iowfoundation.org.