Springfield teachers need help funding creative classroom projects. How you can help
The Foundation for Springfield Public Schools is raising money to fund innovative projects and critical classroom needs requested by teachers.
This month, the foundation launched the "Back to SPS" campaign, which directly supports teachers. This year's theme is "You Invest. We Connect. Kids Thrive."
"Springfield's dedicated teachers champion our students every single day, fostering an environment where every child can thrive," said Natalie Murdock, executive director of the foundation, in a news release. "By investing in our schools and providing timely resources, we empower our teachers to continue their innovative work and equip all students for a bright future. If a teacher can dream it, we can fund it — with your help."
In 2024, the Back-to-School Grant program awarded more than $260,000 to fund a range of initiatives in areas such as literacy, student mental health, hands-on learning and family engagement.
According to the foundation, the need is significant because more than half of SPS students qualify for free or reduced price meals, a national measure of poverty.
The foundation is reviewing this year's grant applications, which are filled with teachers' ideas for creative classroom projects. To get involved, go to www.supportsps.org/backtosps.
More: Shawn Askinosie, Rose O'Neill among 2025 inductees to MSU Public Affairs Hall of Fame
"We invite everyone in our community to join the 'Back to SPS' campaign," said Murdock, adding the funds "can make a real and lasting difference in our classrooms and in the lives of our students."
This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: SPS foundation raising funds for teachers' creative classroom projects
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