AASD FOUNDATION AWARDS GRANTS FOR INNOVATIVE CLASSROOM PROJECTS

The Altoona Area School District Foundation board of directors has allocated $61,774 for innovative classroom projects that will help students and teachers achieve greatness during the 2009-2010 school year. (The list of funded projects is attached.)

There were 21 Venture Grants for Teachers funded in the amount of $18,312. These grants are chosen on a competitive basis annually in October. Up to $1,000 is awarded for unique, curriculum-related projects teachers would like to try with their students. In most cases, these projects eventually become part of the regular curriculum.

Another 12 Educator in Residence grants in the amount of $43,462 were also approved. This effort provides funds to bring distinguished artists, musicians, scientists, authors and other speakers into classrooms where they can share their expertise with students and staff. Additional Educator in Residence projects will be funded in January.

By attracting tax-deductible contributions from Altoona High alumni, school district employees, the local business community and other friends, the AASD Foundation has been able to allocate more than $1.3 million for the school district’s educational program since being established in 1988.

A total of $708,541 has been allocated for 344 Venture Grants for Teachers and 271 Educator in Residence grants over the past 21 years.