As Upshur County schools grapple with tighter budgets following the failure of a recent excess levy, the Foundation for Better Schools in Upshur County is stepping up to provide crucial financial support. This longstanding organization, founded in 1997, offers a streamlined process for teachers and school officials to access funds for various educational needs.
Don Nestor, president of the Foundation, outlined the simple application process: “We have a one-page form where applicants provide basic information about their project, including a brief description, explanation of why it’s needed, and a budget.”
Key points for potential applicants:
- Eligibility: Teachers, coaches, principals and even PTO presidents can apply for funding.
- Process: Applications must be approved by the school principal before submission to the Foundation.
- Review: The Foundation’s board discusses each application and, if approved, forwards it to the superintendent for final review.
- Criteria: Projects must benefit students in Upshur County’s secondary schools and not be fundable otherwise.
Recent successful applications include:
- $2,700 for a therapy dog
- $2,500 for large instruments for the band
- Funding for science, math and computer projects
Kelley Tierney, vice president of the Foundation, emphasized their role in the current financial climate, especially following the state takeover of the county school system.
“With the levy failing, there’s a new awareness of the school system’s needs,” she said. “We keep hearing, ‘Oh, they have to talk to Charleston before they can say yes.’ We’re local; people know us. They know we take our fiduciary responsibilities quite seriously.”
The Foundation is actively seeking more applications.
“We’re trying to get the word out that we’re here and we have funds available,” Nestor said.
The organization is also open to creative ideas. For example, they’re currently considering a proposal to recognize a teacher at each school, potentially with a small cash award for both the teacher and their classroom.
For those interested in applying, the application form is available for download by clicking here.
Nestor encouraged potential applicants to think broadly: “It could be equipment, travel for educational purposes, or special programs. We’re here to support ideas that benefit our students.”
The Foundation meets at the Upshur County Public Library on the first Friday of every month at 10 a.m., and these meetings are open to the public. Community members are encouraged to attend to learn more about the funding process and to share their ideas.
With a nearly three-decade commitment to supporting education in Upshur County, the Foundation for Better Schools stands ready to help bridge the funding gap and ensure local students have access to the best possible educational opportunities.
Read more about the foundation by clicking here, or find out how you can offer support, financial or otherwise, by clicking here.
