Helena Education Foundation

Education instructor pilot and enrichment programs in classrooms -events include Great Ideas Grants and Spark Grants - the premier program achievement of the Helena Education Foundation. These dollars target Helena Educators who propose education programs for students in the K-12 Helena School District. Competitively based educators submit a program description and budget. If successful the educator is awarded a one-year grant based on the standards established by the HEF board. Generally 30-40 educators receive awards annually ranging from a low of $100 to a high of $5,000 for an annual budget that totals $65,000. These programs impact between 3000-5000 students. The Sensory Pathways special project addresses the growing need for students to engage in physical movement to engage cognitive function. HEF purchased 2 Sensory Pathways for all 11 elementary schools. Sensory pathways are colorful exercises designed to develop motor skills balance hand-eye coordination spatial awareness and provide critical "brain breaks" to calm and refocus students throughout the school day.1

All other program activities including Fabulous Firsts a book for every 1st grader Pen and Ink Magazine Harrison Writing Awards Up to 4 student competitive writing cash award Issues Institutes Trading Places General Fundraising Investment and Education and Outreach activities.