Durham Public Schools Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to educational equity and student success in Durham, has awarded $168,400 in grants to 36 schools across the district.
The grants were made into two categories: Innovation and a WHOLE Schools Fund. Innovation grants support new and transformative ideas, while WHOLE Schools grants focus on mental health resources and wellness support.
Thirty-six schools in the district, including 19 elementary schools, seven middle schools, six high schools, one K-12 school and three secondary schools, will receive funding. A committee of foundation staff and Durham community members selected the projects from 114 applications.
The foundation has awarded more than $1.7 million directly to DPS school communities since its founding six years ago.
A selection of funded projects include:
- VOICE: Visionaries Of Impactful Communication and Expression Program at Durham School of Technology ($15,000): This student-led program will provide hands-on experience with digital media, including podcasting, video production and digital publishing.
- Young Cooks Society at Rogers Herr Middle School in partnership with DPS School Nutrition ($15,000): This program will address childhood obesity, food insecurity and health inequities by teaching students culinary skills, nutritional knowledge and food system awareness.
- Relax and Read Zone at R.N. Harris Elementary School ($2,500): This grant will fund the creation of a cozy reading environment to encourage reading.
- Lighthouse Leaders at Bethesda Elementary School ($5,000): This grant will support a student club that pairs general education students with exceptional children students to foster friendships and collaboration.
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