District 59 Education Foundation details grants, scholarships and backpack drive

Rose Kelly, president of the District 59 Education Foundation, and Karen Osmanski, the foundation treasurer, presented the foundation nd its programs to the District 59 Board on Feb. 11.

The foundation funds teacher grants, staff recognition and student scholarships. "From November to March, staff have the opportunity to request funds for items to enhance the quality of education in their classroom," Kelly said, describing a rubric-based review process that the SLT and foundation directors use to award grants. The foundation also awards three $1,000 academic scholarships and three $1,000 trade scholarships, one of each per feeder high school (Elk Grove, Prospect and Rolling Meadows), and plans to bring scholarship recipients to the May board meeting.

Karen Osmanski thanked community donors and named Ron Levine as "a major donor" who has supported the foundation for the past three years. The presenters highlighted partnerships with local organizations; they said Mi Casa Su Casa has helped fund mattresses and pillows for families in need. Osmanski reported the foundation—ollected and distributed 1,942 backpacks through its community-wide drive.

Board members asked how community members can volunteer or join the foundation; presenters said information is on the district website and interested volunteers can contact the administration building. The foundation noted many of its directors are retired District 59 staff and thanked liaison Ben Gray and other district staff for administrative support.

The foundation presentation was followed by the board—enchmarks report and routine business.