Four local schools will be receiving grants to further projects that enhance opportunities for student health, fitness and participation in the arts and leadership development.
Two elementary schools and two secondary schools will be receiving a total of $10,500 from the Ridge Meadows Education Foundation, made possible by the investment earnings from the Education Foundation endowment fund.
Eric Langton elementary will receive $3,000 that will go towards sound equipment and to their upcoming production of The Lion King.
Yennadon elementary will receive $3,000 that will go towards the purchase of stage curtains.
Garibaldi secondary will receive $2,500 to purchase equipment for their female student health and fitness initiative and Maple Ridge secondary will receive $2,000 for their youth leadership initiative entitled Creating Change, that seeks to engage youth in addressing critical issues like youth homelessness.
The Ridge Meadows Education Foundation board was pleased with the initiative demonstrated by this year’s applicants.
“These projects reflect the significant commitment our educators make to enhance student learning every day and we are very happy to use the funds entrusted to us to support their efforts,” said Dr. David Rempel, president of the foundation.
Jaclyn Gibbs with Garibaldi secondary said that students overwhelmingly recognized the need for weight room and cardio equipment for the female population at the school.
“Many are looking for a place they can gather with a group of friends and receive some support and advice to move forward with a strength training program,” Gibbs said, adding that they hope to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for students to come and work out, learn some new exercises and start healthy habits.
Laura Kocurek with Yennadon elementary said the kindergarten team is excited to put curtains on the school’s stage to enhance the Language Arts and Fine Arts curriculum.
“We want our students to gain a love of drama and fine arts, and allow them to have a personal experience with plays and performances,” said Kocurek.
The foundation receives donations and bequests on an ongoing basis and invests those funds to generate income which supports bursaries for graduating students and programs offered in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows public schools.
Cheque presentations will be taking place at 4 p.m. on Apr. 10 at the district education office.
For more information contact Dr. David Rempel at 604-462-7563 or email David_Rempel@sd42.ca.
