During the Foundation's first grant cycle of 2025, the WSF Board of Directors approved over $8,000 in grants to Waterloo Schools students and staff. These innovative projects include:
Operating support for “Waterloo’s Next Gen Leadership Conference” to be hosted in April, spearheaded by Becker Elementary lead teacher Abigail Norgren. This leadership conference will create a continued leadership learning experience for student leadership teams across the district.
Assistance to attend Link Crew Coordinator Training by West High staff. Link Crew provides support for incoming freshmen throughout the year, mentored by junior and senior leaders. Overseen by West High assistant principal, Brian Ortman, this assistance will help provide staff the tools needed to support the Link Crew program.
Equipment to further the George Washington Carver Academy student newspaper and podcast, supported by principal Josh Payton. Students are utilizing both platforms to share their voices while building valuable skills in communication, storytelling, and audio production.
Initial costs associated with establishing cardboard cutting power tools at George Washington Carver Academy and Bunger Middle School. By providing a safe space to utilize these tools, students will grow their voices and interests while understanding that art is more than just paper and pencil.
These grants will be funded through Waterloo Schools Foundation’s grant cycle funds and the Middle School CTE fund.
The grants above are in addition to WSF District Initiatives and other fundraising projects in partnership with the Waterloo Community School District. Grants funded focus on the Foundation’s five funding values: innovation, social emotional learning, longevity, diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, and financial hardship for academic access.