What is the Foundation for Haslett Schools? The short answer is that it generates resources for programs, projects, events, and technology that fall outside the district's regular budget. The long and better answer is that it fosters learning, inspires creativity, and builds bridges with the community...things that make living and learning in Haslett a remarkable experience.

Since its inception in 1989, the Foundation has raised more than a half-million dollars through direct contributions from individuals, families, and businesses, as well as through annual fundraising events and ongoing fundraising programs. That money is returned to Haslett teachers, staff, and students in the form of grants and student scholarships.

For example, through its mini-grants, the Foundation provides seed money for teachers to try new programs, test new teaching strategies, and bring innovative ideas into the classroom. Even though they start small, mini-grants often grow into school-wide, even district-wide, programs designed to enrich educational efforts.

Furthermore, the Foundation's special project grants enable more significant investments in things like computer software and hardware, a grand piano and projection equipment for the Performing Arts Center, and cameras and editing equipment for Vision 22. In 2004, a special project grant was used to pilot the use of Smart Boards, which put the world at the fingertips of Haslett elementary school students. These interactive boards are operated by standard computers and projected onto chalkboard-sized screens; their use, which has grown substantially since the Foundation's first seed grants, provides teachers and students with direct access to the wealth of curriculum and instructional information available on the World Wide Web.

These are just two examples of the ways in which the Foundation is working to enhance the education of children in this community, but there are many more. If you or your child has attended a cultural diversity program, received a scholarship, used a resource room computer, seen the high-quality pictures in the year book, used the Weather Station, participated in Voyager Encampment, or checked out a "Proud Sponsor of Books" selection from a school library, you have benefited from a Foundation for Haslett Schools grant.

Of course, the Foundation could not do what it does without the generosity of the community or the considerable efforts of its voluntary Board of Directors. The Board is comprised of parents, community members, and business representatives, with representation from the Haslett School Board and district administration. These volunteers meet each month to plan and implement fundraising events and programs, review and award grants, and carefully monitor the Foundation's budget and investments.

For more information on the Foundation, click on the links at the left or call (517) 339-8242.