The Foundation is sharing stories from grant and scholarship recipients to show how funding makes an impact. Hear how MCPASD staff, teachers and students are using their grants and scholarships, and see how your dollars make a difference!

Amy Galassi, an advanced learning specialist, and Kirsten Haag, a social worker, received a $610 grant for a program called Learning Through Leadership at Sauk Trail.

They received the grant in 2017 and have used it to pay for and promote several projects.

“This grant allowed a diverse group of students to learn about issues pertaining to social justice that impact their community both inside and outside of school,” Galassi says. “Through various service-learning projects students were empowered to identify ways they can positively effect change. Their biggest accomplishment was acquiring and dedicating a Buddy Bench at Sauk Trail.”

Galassi explains how the grant shaped how they teach.

“This grant has helped us teach the students through a lens of equity,” she says. “When students are able to see how their contributions, no matter how small, can make a difference in our community they feel empowered to continue. Receiving this grant has helped us see the importance of continuing to frame lessons though this vision.”

Another benefit has been how the service-learning projects inspired students to do even more.

“Over the course of the year, we saw students that typically had not been in positions of leadership taking initiative and driving the planning and problem solving processes in the projects,” Galassi explains. “As their confidence grew, they began to step outside their comfort zones and try new roles and experiences.”

MCPASD staff, teachers and students who are interested in applying for an Education Foundation grant or scholarship can contact Perry Hibner. To donate to the Foundation, use the link on our donations page or mail a check to MCPASD Education Foundation, c/o Perry Hibner, 7106 South Avenue, Middleton, WI 53562. Thank you!