A “mini grant” program has been continued for the 22nd straight year by F & M Community Bank in Preston, First State Bank of Fountain and First Southeast Bank in Harmony for the Fillmore Central School District.
Grants of up to $500 each have been made available to classroom teachers for the 2020/2021 school year so they can implement a variety of innovative ideas and projects where funding is not always readily available. The goals of this program include funding projects where other means are not available and making it as easy and simple as possible.
Since it began for the 1996/1997 school year, the banks have pledged over $224,991 in the form of “mini grants.” When the program began, the banks pledged $7,650 toward the program. As interest increased in obtaining funds, the banks made additional monies available so that $10,500 is now available through the mini grant program.
This year the faculty submitted 32 grant requests. Some examples of the requests approved by the committee are:
•Reading level books, novels, science, social studies and Spanish books.
•Annual subscriptions for Starfall Computer Program; Seesaw All Access
•Annual subscription for IXL web based math and language art programs
•Fraction linking cubes (manipulatives for exploring fractions)
•Dry erase clip boards
•Replenish items for science experiments to be included in the take home science experiment backpacks for hands-on learning approach to science.
•Classroom supplies
•Materials for Falcon Fun Day and “I Love to Read” program
There have been many other classes, equipment, travel expenses, etc. funded by the mini grant program over the past 20-plus years. Hopefully it has helped the Fillmore Central School faculty as they provide the very best learning opportunities and experiences for our children!
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