Innovative Programs
Proposed innovative projects are brought to the Education Foundation’s attention by a committee of Foundation and School District Administration members who identify projects which align with KASD’s priorities and strategic plans. The Education Foundation approves and provides funding for innovative projects throughout all grade levels. These funds are intended to supplement existing school activities, thus providing new learning opportunities not covered by local tax dollars. Many of these initiatives are funded with Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) donations made by community businesses.
Teacher Mini-Grants
In 2023, we proudly launched our mini-grant initiative for teachers. We invited them to submit their creative proposals, and the response was incredible! Last year, we were thrilled to fund ten innovative projects in the district.
The teacher mini-grants are back in 2024! Stay tuned for a glimpse into these remarkable projects in action. We'll share photographs of the positive impact on our students as they learn, explore, and grow.
2025 Mini-Grants
The Kutztown Area School District Education Foundation is pleased to announce the awarding of mini-grants for the 2024-25 school year. Students from every building will benefit from the wide variety of projects submitted. A complete list of the plans by building is here.
“Your support makes a meaningful impact on our students, providing them with opportunities that enhance their learning experiences.”
~ Beth Hartz, Tori Gillan, and Janelle Moser on behalf of special education and the Garden Club.
The Inspiration Garden
This project turned a grassy area at the east end of Kutztown High School near the stadium into a place of inspiration and reflection for everyone who visits. This project includes a large mural and a small garden with information placards connecting you to local stories, quotes, photos, and more.
STEAM Fair
On March 22, 2024, the Kutztown Area School District, supported by the Kutztown Area School District Education Foundation, successfully hosted the 5th-grade Science Fair and STEAM Fair. This year saw a remarkable increase in student participation, with numerous innovative science projects in both individual and group categories. The event also featured engaging STEAM stations, live animals, virtual reality experiences, microscopy, and an impressive Art Show.
Teachers, middle school students, and Kutztown University education majors collaborated to create an immersive learning environment that sparked curiosity and inspired innovation. Winners were acknowledged, and the district awarded scholarships to recognize outstanding student achievements.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed their time and energy to make this fair a success, demonstrating the community's commitment to fostering education and nurturing young minds.
We are thrilled to share a firsthand account of the STEAM Fair, highlighting the incredible talent and creativity of the students and the broader community's commitment to fostering education and innovation here.
Imagination Library
Free books for kids! The KASD Education Foundation launched this program in November 2020. Through this program, we supply free books for children (ages 0-5) through the Imagination Library book gifting program. Each child living in the district who is enrolled in the program will receive one new book each month from birth up to their 5th birthday. Registrations are accepted year-around. To register your child to receive this free gift of literacy, simply go to www.imaginationlibrary.com, scroll down and click on the link that says “Can I Register My Child?” or click on the Sign-up button on the webpage.
Support-A-Scholar
This program began during the 2019-2020 school year when the school district created partnerships with Kutztown University and Reading Area Community College. Students taking dual enrollment courses receive discounted tuition and are able to focus on college-level material from KU and RACC. These credits are able to be transferred to many universities. The Education Foundation subsidizes a portion of the dual enrollment course tuition at the time of successful course completion.
The Kutztown Education Foundation Support-A-Scholar program for the 2022-2023 school year supported 24 students in a total of 37 courses. The Education Foundation subsidized a portion of the dual enrollment course tuition once the course was completed by the student. The students took advantage of courses such as Physics, Chemistry, Business, Public Speaking, and Writing at both Kutztown University (KU) and Reading Area Community College (RACC). The students will be able to transfer the credits to many universities helping them academically and financially for the future. Another way we are Improving Education Together.
Cougar Resilience Campaign
The Education Foundation, through the generosity of its donors, was able to boost the resilience of all employees of the Kutztown Area School District. The marquee at the Strand and a banner across Main St. proclaimed the community’s thanks for our hardworking educators. Some educators won prizes through a raffle, while all employees received gift cards from local restaurants. To say the employees were surprised and appreciative is definitely an understatement. See a sample of pictures and quotes.
Supportive Technology
Supporting technology initiatives in all grade levels has been a priority of the Foundation, beginning with the One-to-One laptop initiative, supported from its inception.
Technology equipment was purchased to assist students preparing History Day projects.
Through the years, computers, iPads, projectors, digital cameras, printers, software, and network upgrades were purchased to enhance the academic curriculum.
Renovation Projects
Funds were provided for the fencing around the high school athletic stadium.
Support was provided for the dedication of the high school “John Silan Gymnasium”.
