20 Teachers Receive 2008-2009 Watauga Education Foundation Grants; Students at Eight Schools Reap the Rewards

Boone, NC – Hundreds of Watauga County students will benefit in the coming months from, the 2008-2009 Watauga Education Foundation Grants.  $22,000 is being distributed to 20 teachers who developed proposals for creative initiatives and submitted applications to the Foundation.

“We are delighted to funnel so much money into the Watauga County Public Schools,” said Dr. Jay Fenwick, Chair of the Foundation Allocations Committee. “We were able to provide grants to every school that made application, and we applaud all the instructors who make it a priority to enhance the learning experience for their students.”

Teachers, administrators and employees of WCS are all eligible to apply for funds from the Foundation throughout the year, with the grant process culminating at the beginning of each school year.

This year’s distributions will support, among other things digital tools to assist disabled and disaffected readers, materials for participation in a national robotics competition, Spanish immersion kits, ping pong tables for physical education and hot wheels cars to facilitate scientific study of motion.  The grants range from $200 to $2,000, the maximum allowed under the program.

“The creativity of these teachers is exemplary,” said Foundation President Becka Saunders.  “I am always impressed with the fresh ideas and thoughtfulness of those who apply.  It reinforces my belief that Watauga County has some of the most caring instructors in the state, and I encourage parents to thank the winners for their initiative and dedication.

Grant distribution is one of the primary ways the Foundation provides support for the students of Watauga County and all of it is possible because of the generous financial contributions from the people and businesses that support our mission to encourage every student to achieve his or her highest potential.

To find out if your teacher received a grant please visit the Watauga Education Foundation website; www.wefnc.org.

Since 1989, the Watauga Education Foundation has been a catalyst for excellence in Watauga County Public Schools.  Through Grant programs and continuing education scholarships and other funding initiatives, the Foundation assists teachers who strive to make a difference in the lives of those they serve.  The Foundation also provides opportunities for the community to get involved with their schools, as well as creative outlets for visual and performing arts.  To date, the Foundation has raised more than $1-million for Watauga County Public Schools.  Everyone is encouraged to attend our upcoming events, Flapjack Flip, December 6, 2008 at WHS and Shooting Stars 2009, April 24, 2009 at Farthing Auditorium.