U-46 Educational Foundation invites donors to honor teachers
In honor of Teacher Appreciation Week May 6-10, students, alumni, parents and community members are invited to recognize a special Elgin Area School District U-46 teacher, current or retiree, by making a donation to the U-46 Educational Foundation.
The foundation expands opportunities for U-46 students beyond what is possible with tax dollars.
Established more than a decade ago, the nonprofit 501(c)3 organization has supported districtwide events and programs, such as classroom sky shows at the U-46 Planetarium, heart rate monitors for physical education classes, and the annual TalentFest showcasing high school students.
Most recently, the foundation awarded eight "mini-grants" that allowed teachers to pursue innovative projects for their classrooms.
By honoring a teacher through a donation to the foundation during Teacher Appreciation Week, donors will help enhance, enrich and complement existing opportunities at all district schools. The donations also means districtwide recognition for teachers.
"Our teachers are the backbone of the great educational experiences we offer our students in U-46," said Foundation President E.C. "Bud" Wilson. "By honoring our teachers with a donation to the foundation, donors also will be supporting the important work that is done in classrooms across the district each day."
Teachers will be notified of all donations, and receive special recognition as well. Donors are encouraged to write a brief letter to accompany their donation, and with their approval, excerpts will be shared on the district's website and on social media channels during Teacher Appreciation Week.
For donations at the highest tier, $100 or more, the foundation will arrange an in-class surprise so that the donor (or a proxy) can thank the teacher in person. Select surprises will be filmed and shared on the U-46 website and social media.
More information, including details on suggested donation levels and teacher recognition, can be found on the foundation website at www.u-46.org/foundation or by writing foundation@u-46.org.