Highline Schools Foundation to award over 60,000 in grants this fall

The Highline Schools Foundation will distribute over $60,000 in grants to local schools following successful fundraising efforts, including the Burien Brat Trot and Oktoberfest Auction. The Impact Grant, now in its second year and partially funded by Alaska Airlines, awarded $10,000 to the "Making an Impact" program, which aims to boost female participation in computer science. This initiative funds after-school programs, career exploration field trips, and resources like programmable robots. Royce Badley, the grant's author, stressed the importance of preparing young women for careers in the high-tech industry. Additionally, the Foundation's Excel Grant program offers smaller grants, ranging from $50 to $1,000, to support diverse educational needs.

Executive Director Ashley Fosberg highlighted the alignment of grant giving with the district’s strategic goals, noting the broad range of projects funded. In 2013, the Foundation awarded 77 Excel Grants totaling nearly $50,000, with intentions to increase funding for 2014. The Highline Schools Foundation also supports various initiatives, such as sports participation fees, summer camps, and scholarships for vulnerable students.