Educational Foundation of Dexter Pledges $42,000 to Dexter Schools

By Nicole Ferguson

The Educational Foundation of Dexter awarded $42,093 to Dexter Community Schools to fund classroom equipment and projects for the upcoming school year.

"In these days of hyperbolic criticism of public schools, the need is greater than ever to celebrate the outstanding efforts of our Dexter teachers," foundation president Kristi Bishop said. "While government officials in Lansing and Washington debate what they believe is best for our country’s educational system, the Education Foundation of Dexter is asking the teachers directly on the front lines, 'What do you need to provide an excellent education for our students?'”

Kim Parros, grant chairwoman for the foundation, said it is important to encourage teachers to think outside of the box when designing programs for their students.

“We are providing a way for them (teachers) to provide 'extra' programs that the district can not fund,” Parros said. "These programs will have an end result of enhancing teaching and learning.”

In the past, the foundation awarded grants for new iPads to help students who have a hard time with reading and can use some of the iPad applications.

The 28 programs funded this year are a result of the hard work of the Educational Foundation members and the passion they have to enhance the excellence in education, Bishop said.

“I am proud to be a part of this group of community leaders all working together to support the magic happening in our classrooms," she said.

The Educational Foundation holds numerous fundraisers throughout the year, including its annual , to fund its grant program.