HPEF RESPONDS TO COVID 19 EPIDEMIC
In September, the Highland Park Educational Foundation announced a new Mini Grant program for teachers. The purpose of this program is to offer grants up to $300 to help with on-line or in person instruction in a quick, efficient way. HPEF came up with a streamlined system that eliminates several steps in the usual granting process. Applications are forwarded from the superintendent directly to the Foundation, where a decision is made in three days and teachers are notified. They then order the needed supplies, forward the receipts to HPEF and a check is issued in short order.
As of mid-November, more than 16 grants applications have been received and funded, from teachers at Bartle, Irving and the High School. Five applicants needed Document Cameras, which can be used remotely and in the classroom. Some included new ways for the younger students to safely store their personal items since sharing may not be safe, supplies like markers, crayons, scissors, etc. One teacher wants books for her at home students who have trouble reading from the screen; these will be delivered directly to them. Many requests were from teachers of special needs students. One teacher purchased clay, construction paper and other materials for her students who learn best with a multi-sensory approach. Another will take on on-line course in teaching using environmental experiences.
HPEF chair Lisa Berlin said “We are so pleased at the great response from the staff to this new program in so short a time. We are open to continuing the program in the new year if the need continues.”
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