The Corvallis Public Schools Foundation has announced the awarding of $84,000 in IMAGINE grants to fund innovative programs that promote student achievement, advance equity, provide real-world learning experiences, and enhance student health and wellbeing in the Corvallis School District.
IMAGINE grants—an acronym of Innovation, comMunity, Action, chanGe, Inclusivity, collaboratioN, Engagement—are available to any Corvallis School District staff member. This year, 29 grants were funded including a district-wide student art exhibit, a multicultural environmental education program, instrument supplies to promote equitable access to music, and coding robots for STEAM-based learning, among other initiatives.
Letitia Carson Elementary kindergarten teacher, Kara Olson, received a grant to support “Letitia’s Garden Club,” an after-school program integrating art, science, wellness, and community to enhance learning in the garden. “My students have benefitted so much throughout the years from Corvallis Public Schools Foundation funds,” says Olson. “I am so grateful, and of course full of more creative ideas for the future, thanks to CPSF.”
Since 2008, the Foundation has provided more than $800,000 through this grant program. “We are so proud of the work our educators are doing to inspire and engage students,” says Emily Barton co-chair of the Grants and Scholarship Committee. “It is our privilege and honor to award these grants that are made possible by the generosity, commitment, and responsiveness of our donors.”
Angela Hibbard, the Foundation’s interim executive director, echoed Barton’s thanks to the community and added that “Budget limitations often mean that educators do not have the resources needed to implement their innovative ideas. Now more than ever, students need creative ways to engage with their school community and enhance their learning.”
The Foundation is currently accepting applications for Youth Empowerment and Action (YEA!) grants to fund innovative, student-driven projects. 509J students can find more information and apply at cpsfoundation.org
A full list of 2022 IMAGINE grants can be viewed here 2022 IMAGINE grants