Education Foundation Annual Report 2017-2018

Our work supports students regardless of skill level, gender, interests, culture, language or socioeconomic status, and enhances learning and extra-curricular options for all public-school students. Our programs increase accessibility for ALL students to advance academically, to participate in extra-curricular activities and to thrive as community members.

Our strategic goal is to provide resources and support to public-school educators, with priority given to District identified high-need schools (Title 1 designation and those with a high percentage of students on free & reduced meal program), as well as to engage and better prepare students for the demands of college and today’s job market. We believe that a vibrant public-school system is essential to the social and economic well-being of a community and our programs serve to support this opportunity. The programs that we support are NOT funded by the District and we receive no federal dollars.

The Education Foundation focuses on creating equity for all students in Bend-La Pine schools through our programs:

Innovative Classroom/District Grants support STEM (science, technology, engineering & math), art, music and wellness programs. We funded 53 classroom grants totaling $89,002 and funded District-wide impact programs: Spheros Robotic Coding; Drones Curriculum and Trauma Informed Care training.
Needs-based Activity Fee Scholarships for at-risk middle and high school students served under the Free & Reduced Meals program to participate in after school athletics. Over 5000 students have benefited from this program since 2003. The Foundation believes that student involvement in extra-curricular activities and after school sports is vital to a well-rounded educational experience. Eligibility for scholarship assistance is based on income guidelines associated with the Free & Reduced Meals program, which serves 45% of all District students, though some schools exceed 80%! $36,435 in AFS awarded.
Perseverance Awards for high school students who have overcome difficult life challenges to graduate and have higher education or career plans. These students have persevered to graduation and continue to work towards breaking life cycles that impact their future. $30,000 in scholarships awarded.
In 2018, partnering with the Oregon Community Foundation and C.O. Latino Partnership Program to provide scholarships for graduating Latino students. $10,000 in scholarships awarded.

Education Foundation Annual Report 2017-2018

Kristi Simmons-Olson | September 27, 2018