Grant Applications Open - Fall 2024 SPSF Newsletter
Nov 5, 2024
A Note from the Executive Director
Dear Foundation Stakeholders,
As we enter the fall season, it’s time to share our latest newsletter highlighting the work of the Spokane Public Schools Foundation and our vision for the future. I’m excited to introduce myself as the new Executive Director, a role I took on this summer. With over 20 years of experience in education as a teacher, principal, and school superintendent across Washington, I now find myself back in Spokane—a city my family and I are proud to call home.
I’m honored to join the foundation because, like many of you, my own life has been shaped by the support of my family and the dedicated public-school teachers who invested in me from a young age. Our foundation shares this commitment by investing in our students through the incredible work of Spokane Public School teachers, providing grants that help turn innovative classroom ideas into reality.
If you have any questions about the foundation or want to learn how you can support our efforts to invest in the future leaders of Spokane, I encourage you to visit our website or reach out to me directly. I look forward to working together to make a lasting impact on our community.
Best regards,
Aaron Chavez
Executive Director
Spokane Public Schools Foundation
Foundation News
Grant Applications Open
We will begin accepting grant applications on November 1st for the 2025/2026 school year. SPSF awards dozens of grants annually to educators in the Spokane Public School District, ranging from $200 up to $2,500. These grants allow educators to create enhanced learning experiences to keep students engaged, and we’re proud to help them bring their visions to life! With an improved grant application process, it’s easier than ever for educators to apply for the funds they need. We are looking forward to another fantastic year and are very thankful for the businesses and individuals that make these grants possible.
Looking Ahead to the Future
The Spokane Public Schools Foundation awarded 77 grants totaling up to $130,000 for the 2024/2025 school year. Since our inception in 2006, the Foundation has awarded over $700,000 in grants, underscoring the ongoing commitment to support local schools. We look forward to reviewing this year’s grant applications and seeing the creative ideas teachers present!
In addition to awarding grants, SPSF has expanded our board and recently hired an Executive Director to further our mission. With new leadership and a revitalized board, the Foundation is well positioned to continue its impactful work. The growth reflects a strategic push to increase community involvement and foster a greater impact on local education.
The Spokane Public Schools Foundation relies on a variety of funding sources to support initiatives, including fundraisers, sponsors, and donations. The Sustainers Circle (made up of long-term donors), Spokane Public Schools payroll deductions, and pass-through donations offering 501(c)(3) benefits, are all crucial in ensuring the Foundation’s ability to continue providing support for years to come.
Goals & Updates for 2024-2025
As we look forward to a year of growth and impact, we are excited to announce goals for 2024:
- Expand Foundation Awareness: We are commi9ed to raising our profile in the Spokane community, ensuring more people know about the vital role we play in supporting our district schools.
- Strategic Plan Update: A refresh of our Strategic Plan will chart the course for where we want to be in five years, with a renewed focus on innovation and community engagement.
- Policy and Procedure Updates: Increased modernization of our policies and procedures will ensure efficiency and transparency.
- Sustainers Circle Program Expansion: We aim to grow our Sustainers Circle, bringing in new supporters to ensure long-term financial sustainability for the programs that enrich the lives of our students.
- Bowling for Kids: Mark your calendars for May 29th as we host our annual Bowling for Kids event. It promises to be a fun-filled day for a great cause!
We look forward to a year of continued progress and invite the community to join us in making a difference!
Sustainers Circle
Investing in Our Foundation for Years to Come
The “Sustainers Circle” is a very special giving opportunity for our donors and corporate sponsors who support the Foundation with a multi-year financial commitment.
Sustaining gifts help preserve SPSF’s ability to deliver our mission for years to come. These important financial commitments directly contribute to the sole purpose of the Foundation, which is to provide grants to teachers and the local school community that provide creative and innovative educational opportunities to the district’s 30,000 students.
Making a multi-year donation is easy and practical by using our monthly, quarterly, or annual giving options. With giving levels ranging from $1,000 to $20,000 per year, you can choose the level and frequency that works best for you.
Please consider joining us by investing in our students’ future. Visit our Ways to Give page today!
