Farmington Public School Foundation Awards the First Ever Innovative Initiative Grant to FPS

Farmington Public School Foundation (FPSF) is pleased to announce the award of the first Innovative Initiative Grant in the amount of $95,000 to the Farmington Public Schools.  The Innovation Initiative Grant is given to the Farmington Public School system by FPSF for large-scale innovative programs that will directly impact students and align with the FPS Vision of the Graduate. The FPSF Board determines the specific innovative needs of the district through discussions with the Superintendent of Schools.

The initial funds for the grant will be presented at the regularly scheduled Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, January 21, 2014. The meeting will be held in the West Woods Upper Elementary Library School at 7:00pm.

$95,000 will be awarded to the Farmington Public Schools over a three year period to  fund state-of-the-art Engineering Labs at Farmington High School, Irving A. Robbins Middle School and West Woods Upper Elementary School in Farmington.  Students in grades 5-12 will benefit from authentic learning experiences in the area of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) as a result of the FPSF Innovative Initiative Grant.

The new Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) require students to have exposure to the engineering design process through their regular science classes.  These standards aim to show students that engineering can solve many of the real world problems faced in today’s society.  By creating a well-equipped work space at FHS, students will be given the opportunity to build prototype designs to solve problems that are presented.  At the Middle School levels, this initiative will expand the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) programs and provide additional materials for Applied Physics and Engineering students.  In addition, the grant will assist in expanding the pilot of CT Invention Convention participation and support the cost of materials needed for the Science Olympiad and Robotics teams to be competitive.

Meghan Guerrera, Chair of the FPSF states, “Farmington Public School Foundation is proud to partner with Farmington Public Schools to provide this innovative educational experience for Farmington students.  Through community involvement, we can continue to extend classroom learning to include real world experiences.  Supporting our Adult Spelling Bee and Teacher Recognition Program are great ways for everyone to help us further our mission of excellence in education." 

Superintendent Kathleen C. Greider states, “FPSF is committed to ensuring that the Farmington schools remain on the cutting-edge of innovative practices across subject areas and schools.  FPSF’s support of our Vision of the Graduate and the Board of Education’s goals has been vital to the district’s continuous improvement efforts.  Our strong partnership with FPSF is a true asset to the Farmington community and a model for school districts and foundations across this region.  We thank the FPSF for their support of our Innovative Initiative Grant and the school district’s focus on developing 21st century skills, specifically in the area of STEM.  We also thank the many community members, organizations and businesses that support the FPSF through their generous donations.”

About FPSF:

The Farmington Public School Foundation (FPSF) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization established in 1995. The Foundation adheres to its vision and mission by providing grants to educational programs that provide our students with strategic and forward-thinking capabilities throughout all grade levels (K-12) within the Farmington Public School System.

With FPSF’s support, the students of the Farmington Public School system have the opportunity to enhance their learning and explore potential future career options.

Vision

To build community and financial support and ensure excellence in our schools so that our students can thrive in the global economy.

Mission

To provide financial support for educational projects, programs and initiatives that foster innovation and excellence in the Farmington Public Schools.