Printer Friendly Version - EES Foundation Announces over $50,000 in Grants and Program Funding to Essex Elementary School

Fourth grade Essex Elementary School Students participate in Scientist in Residence program, presented by the CT Audubon Society Roger Tory Peterson Estuary Center, funded by the Essex Elementary School Foundation. Photo courtesy of Sarah Wadle

The Essex Elementary School Foundation (EESF), supported by the residents and community of Essex, approved more than $50,000 for enrichment programs offered at Essex Elementary School (EES) that would otherwise not be available through traditional funding by the school system and budget.

For the 2021-’22 school year, the approved programs and grants include a renewed collaboration with the Essex Historical Society to provide a comprehensive Historian in Residence program to help students learn about the rich history of Essex, Centerbrook, and Ivoryton. For a second year, grades K-6 will be inspired to solve grade-level specific math problems in designated locations around town through the Summer Math Passport Program. These math equations are designed to spark an interest and curiosity in children as they explore their world through the lens of mathematics.

The CT Audubon Society’s Roger Tory Peterson Estuary Center (CAS/RTPEC) will once again offer a Scientist in Residence program for K-6 students and teachers. The program will include virtual learning as well as field trips in the spring. Other continued grants and programs include Bloom Art instruction, Lego Engineering, and 3D Printing Makerspace afterschool programs.

New for 2021-’22, the Connecticut River Museum will work with the EES grades 4-6-to provide experiences to increase students’ knowledge of their town and connection to the Connecticut River. Grades K-2 will receive new Geodes Decodable Textbooks. Geodes are accessible, knowledge-building books for emerging and developing readers, aligned with the developmental stages of the Wilson Fundations foundational reading program.

Looking forward to the 2022-’23 school year, EESF is in the process of developing a STEM Lab for all students and teachers at EES. The goal is increased interest and lab access leading to enhanced educational experiences in mathematics and the sciences.

“The enhanced learning experience at EES is what helps to make our community stand out. Last year, due to the pandemic, the number of programs supported was reduced. We are thrilled to bring back some favorite learning opportunities in addition to some new collaborations with our local community organizations,” said EESF President Bill Jacaruso. “We are grateful for the generous support from our local parents and community members to make these programs possible.”

The Essex Elementary School Foundation’s Annual Appeal begins in early December. Learn more by visiting www.essexesf.org.