In the past, the Education Foundation has successfully worked to provide funding for innovative classrooms in each of the ten public schools by offering annual mini-grants to teachers.  Each year, teachers submit proposals to the Foundation and are awarded up to $1,000 per grant based on need and sustainability, as well as the number of students impacted.  Over the last eight years, the Education Foundation has awarded over 260 grants totaling more than $200,000.  The average mini-grant award ranges from $300-$1,000. The Education Foundation also supports educators and students by funding innovative technology products in the classrooms and STEM learning initiatives via mini-grants.

The mini-grant program impacts the entire student body in Amherst County Public Schools. All teachers are encouraged to apply (and some create unique teams!) in order to enhance their classroom learning environment. We all know that teachers provide a significant amount of resources to their classrooms on their own dime. The ACPSEF tries to eliminate that burden while offering teachers the ability to think creatively to create positive impact in their classrooms. It is absolutely incredible to see students flourish in a creative learning environment thanks to the mini-grant program! With these funds, the ACPSEF will grant awards to classrooms in all grade levels. Projects and programs we tend to support include those that can positively impact students year after year.

Past Recipients

Cheryl Falls, ACHS

Maryellen Johnson, ACHS

Lauren Kershner, Central Elementary

Jaco Wheeler, Madison Heights Elementary

Clair Morck, Madison Heights Elementary

Ross Hawkins, Monelison Middle

Patti Givens/Melissa Bouse, Elon Elementary

Christine Sherwood, Central Elementary

Lisa Laub, Monelison Middle School

Ann Hartman, Amherst Middle

Diane Gryctko, Amherst Middle

Daniel Thompson, Amherst Middle

Mike Cargill, Amherst County High School

Kim Hunnicutt, Amherst Middle

Tina Smith, Central Elementary

Andrea Wilson, Amherst Elementary

Nancy Naisawald, Amherst Elementary

Margaret Ann White, Amherst Elementary

Kandy Reid, Amherst Elementary

Erin Calhoun, Amherst Elementary

Clair Wilkerson, Madison Heights Elementary

Waverly Ward, Madison Heights Elementary

Janet Maxwell, Amherst Middle

Tonya Smith, Madison Heights Elementary

Laura Delo, Monelison Middle

Kelli Arrington, Amherst Elementary

Teresa Taylor, Amherst Elementary

Kathy Carter, Amherst Elementary

Greta Calloway, Elon Elementary