CPEF Presents Second Batch of Annual Grant Awards

Members of the Coventry Public Education Foundation (CPEF) recently presented grant awards to four Coventry educators to purchase classroom tools and materials. This was the Foundation's second annual grant disbursement following the first last June in the form of . In the past, CPEF has also given grants to fund nearly 1,000 "Phonics Phones" for Coventry elementary schools and basketball equipment to Coventry High School in conjunction with a shoot-out fundraiser.

"We've given the teachers the opportunity to apply for a grant award for a unique idea that they have that's outside of the normal curriculum allowance within the school department," explained Treasurer Bruce Desrosiers. "The goal is to enhance learning in the classroom with an idea that is unique to them either by expanding upon something that already exists or coming up with something that's entirely new." 

According to Desrosiers, CPEF has raised about $11,000 through public donations and fundraisers in the last two years and given approximately $40,000 of capital injection into the schools through funding and equipment donations.

Word about CPEF and its goal for local education has spread quickly throughout the Coventry school community. One indicator of this came in the form of 25 grant applications received by the Foundation this year, compared to only seven in 2012. 

Grants Committee Chair Robert Thibeault presented more than $6,000 in grants to the following four recipients:

William Brew – Coventry High School 

For the purchase of materials for his students to conduct a comparative study of the ecosystems of Tiogue Lake and Johnson`s Pond. The results will be shared with students, faculty, administrators and community members.

Julie Hernandez – Hopkins Hill School

For the purchase of materials to create fluency centers in grades 1 through 5 at Hopkins Hill School; with the goal of increasing reading proficiency and comprehension.

Steven Lukowicz – Coventry High School

For the purchase of EKG Sensors to further the science, physical education, health, and nursing curricula at Coventry High School.

Susan Murphy – Alan Shawn Feinstein Middle School

For the purchase of 10 Nooks and 52 ebooks for use by students in the school`s Media Center. The grant will enhance the reading and learning experiences of ASFMS students.

"On behalf of the Committee, I just want to say thank you so much for all that you do," said School Committee Chair Kathy Patenaude. "I can remember when this was just a little seed of an idea and it took you all getting together to form this non-profit organization that is surpassing all of my dreams on what this would be for Coventry Public Schools. You have a wonderful group of people who are committed to public education here in Coventry."

Stay informed of upcoming Coventry Public Education Foundation fundraisers and events by clicking here to check out the organization's Facebook page or visiting the official website at www.cpefri.org.