WE’RE HIRING!
Seeking a Foundation Manager for the D39 Educational Foundation!
Are you looking for a part-time, flexible job that’s close to home, and helps fund innovative programming, experiences, and technologies to D39 schools?
Appreciation Certificates Are Now Available!
Looking for a special gift to say THANK YOU to a special teacher, staff or administrator AND give back to our D39 schools? For your $39 donation, the staff member(s) of your choice will be honored with a personalized certificate sent via email and their name posted on our website’s virtual Wall of Honor. All donations will benefit our schools by funding the D39 Educational Foundation’s Gripp Grant program. (more…)
Continue Reading Appreciation Certificates Are Now Available!
Family Bingo Night is Back – It’s Back & Better Than Ever!
Bingo Night is back on January 24th, 6-8 PM at the Highcrest Middle School. Bingo is fun for everyone! Pizza, salad, and more! Prizes that will delight both kids and adults. Secure your tickets early; this event sells out fast! Let’s make some unforgettable family memories together! Unfortunately Family Bingo Night has reached capacity, please email bonorati@d39foundation.org to be placed on the waitlist!
Continue Reading Family Bingo Night is Back – It’s Back & Better Than Ever!
4th Annual College Paddle Night Was a Success!!
The D39 Educational Foundation hosted its 4th Annual College Paddle Night on November 16th. It was a beautiful night in Wilmette – perfectfor paddle and a little friendly competition! Sixty-four participantsplayed in a round-robin style tournament, sporting their favoritecollege-themed gear. New this year was a “party” option for those whowanted to support the Foundation, but were unable to play. It was ahuge success! The event featured more than $5,000 in raffle prizes,and some great food and drinks. We extend a heartfelt thank-you to ourgenerous sponsors, local businesses, and volunteers. College PaddleNight raised more than $8,000, which will fund new Gripp Grants thatbring innovative educational opportunities to D39 students. Thank youto our participants and partners for another successful and fun event!
Continue Reading 4th Annual College Paddle Night Was a Success!!
Foundation Awards 2 Fall Gripp Grants Totaling $2,935!!
This Fall the D39 Foundation awarded 2 Gripp Grants totaling $2935. One grant was awarded to Romona elementary for $1054 for Toniebox Audio Players and several Tonies Audio Play Characters and Audiobooks. The second was awarded to McKenzie elementary for $1,881 for Yoto Devices with audiobooks, music, and podcasts. An exciting part of these Gripp Grants is that the teachers have agreed to partner with each other and share ongoing feedback to help identify the benefits of each specific device for different ages and populations. These Gripp Grants will provide innovative educational opportunities for our D39 students.
Continue Reading Foundation Awards 2 Fall Gripp Grants Totaling $2,935!!
Another Successful Family Movie Night in the Books!
Thank you to our beloved historical Wilmette Theatre for hosting a fun family night out to benefit the foundation! With delicious concessions in hand families grabbed seats to sold out showings of the heart warming movie “IF” starring Ryan Reynolds. This fun event helped raise money for future Gripp Grants! Thank you to the D39 Community for making the evening such a success! Congratulations to Elizabeth Good and family who were our lucky 50/50 raffle winners! They won half of the funds we raised on raffle ticket sales as well as a Wilmette Theatre Family Movie Night Gift Certificate! Stay tuned for info on future Family Movies Nights!
Continue Reading Another Successful Family Movie Night in the Books!
Pickleball Was a Success!!
D39 Educational Foundation hosted our inaugural Dinkin for a Cause on April 27th! Thank you to all participants who came out to support D39! Fifty players competed in a fun tournament for all skill levels. The event raised over $3000 which will fund new Gripp Grants that bring innovative educational opportunities to our D39 students!
Foundation Awards 2 Spring Gripp Grants Totaling $44,325
This spring the D39 Educational Foundation awarded two Gripp Grants totaling $44,325. One grant was awarded to the Highcrest Middle School technology department in the amount of $19,517 for a Class VR. The other grant was awarded to all 4 elementary schools in the amount of $24,808 for Logitech Crayons. These Gripp Grants will provide innovative educational opportunities for our D39 students.
Continue Reading Foundation Awards 2 Spring Gripp Grants Totaling $44,325
Family Night BINGO 2024
The District 39 Educational Foundation hosted a fun-filled Family Bingo Night on Friday, February 9th. Over 220 game enthusiasts of all ages enjoyed the masterful calling of our MCs, Dave Lundy and Michael Lieber, and had many opportunities to joyfully shout “BINGO!” Thanks to generous donations from local businesses and participants, lots of lucky winners enjoyed choosing from an awesome prize table. The Big Tomato provided delicious pizza and salad options. Family Bingo Night raised over $4,000 which will help fund new, innovative educational programs and experiences for District 39 students. Thank you to our D39 community members for another fantastic event!
College Paddle Night January 2024
Another successful College Paddle Night, hosted by D39 Educational Foundation, is in the books! Thank you to all participants who came out to support D39 wearing their college gear and ready to play paddle! Sixty-four players competed in a fun round-robin style tournament for all skill levels. This year’s event featured 12 fabulous raffle prizes – from paddle gear and lessons to fitness and wellness bundles – as well as great food and drinks. We extend a big thank you to our generous sponsors, local businesses, and volunteers. College Paddle Night raised more than $7,000, which will fund new Gripp Grants that bring innovative educational opportunities to D39 students. Thank you to our participants and partners for another successful and fun event!
Foundation Awards 2 Fall Gripp Grants Totaling $5,201.81
This fall the D39 Educational Foundation awarded two Gripp Grants totaling $5,201.81. One grant was awarded to the Highcrest Middle School orchestra department for StringRise instruments. The other grant was awarded to Romona Elementary for permanent and traveling communication boards. These Gripp Grants will provide innovative educational opportunities for our D39 students.
Continue Reading Foundation Awards 2 Fall Gripp Grants Totaling $5,201.81
Foundation Awards a Gripp Grant Totaling $6,704 to Highcrest Math Teachers
This spring the D39 Educational Foundation awarded a Gripp Grant totaling $6,704 to Highcrest Middle School math teachers. This Gripp Grant will provide innovative educational opportunities for our 5th and 6th grade students in D39.
Continue Reading Foundation Awards a Gripp Grant Totaling $6,704 to Highcrest Math Teachers
Family Movie Night made a triumphant return on Friday, April 14th!
The D39 Educational Foundation and Wilmette Theatre hosted a full house of D39 families with two SOLD OUT shows! Both shows brought cheerful crowds, some even dressing up in their best Mario Bros. gear to celebrate the blockbuster The Super Mario Bros. Movie! (more…)
Continue Reading Family Movie Night made a triumphant return on Friday, April 14th!
Screen Printing Experience Brought to WJHS Art Students
On March 9th, the 8th grade Wilmette Junior High School students were visited by a guest lecturer, professional artist Jay Ryan.
Continue Reading Screen Printing Experience Brought to WJHS Art Students
BINGO Night Was Fun For All!
The District 39 Educational Foundation hosted a fun-filled Family Bingo Night on Friday, February 10th. Over 220 game enthusiasts of all ages enjoyed the masterful calling of our MC, Mr. Dave Lundy, and had many opportunities to joyfully shout “BINGO!” (more…)
College Paddle Night 2023
The District 39 Educational Foundation hosted a very successful College Paddle Night on Saturday, January 28th. Players joined with enthusiasm wearing their college alma mater and ready for some friendly competition – despite snow, slush, and cold temps! (more…)
Foundation Awards Three Fall Gripp Grants Totaling $10,026
Three Fall Gripp Grants totaling $10,026 were awarded to our D39 schools which will have a positive impact on our students. These grants will provide innovative opportunities for a range of students in our elementary schools and at Highcrest Middle School.
Continue Reading Foundation Awards Three Fall Gripp Grants Totaling $10,026
10th Annual Trivia Night Was a Success!
The District 39 Educational Foundation’s 10th annual trivia night was held as an in-person event for the first time in two years on November 12th. The popular fundraiser was considered a huge success with over $12,000 raised and more than 220 people in attendance! (more…)
Foundation Awards Two Spring Gripp Grants Totaling $15,519
Two Spring Gripp Grants totaling $15,519 were awarded to 12 teachers across all four elementary schools and will benefit students from our earliest learners in the Lechner Early Education Program (LEEP) through fourth grade. The grants address both the need for kids to move their bodies in new and innovative ways, as well as to learn and practice literacy in the digital world.
Continue Reading Foundation Awards Two Spring Gripp Grants Totaling $15,519
Cheers & Beers 2022
Cheers and Beers Party Brings the Community Together Oh, what a night! The District 39 Educational Foundation hosted its very first Cheers & Beers party this spring at Double Clutch Brewing Company in Evanston. Sponsored by North Shore Community Bank, this event featured live music, dancing, drinks, and hors d’oeuvres, as well as a silent auction and raffle to raise money for the Foundation’s Gripp Grants program. (more…)
Paddle Classic 2022
On a particularly chilly night perfectly suited for paddle tennis, the District 39 Educational Foundation held its first ever Paddle Classic on Saturday, March 12th, from 7-10 pm at the Wilmette Platform Tennis Club. This was the first in-person event sponsored by the foundation since the start of the pandemic and it was a great success! After two years of virtual events, it was a joy to mingle with fellow district parents while supporting the foundation’s mission. (more…)
Celebrating the Unexpected & Rewarding Moments During Covid-19
In the spring of 2021, the D39 Educational Foundation launched Silver Lining Project. D39 students and families were asked “What is your Silver Lining?” The goal was to find and share the positive amongst the unknown of COVID-19. (more…)
Continue Reading Celebrating the Unexpected & Rewarding Moments During Covid-19
Foundation Awards Two Spring Gripp Grants
Two Spring Gripp Grants totaling $8,705 were awarded to 12 teachers, library professionals, and administrators, which will positively impact every student in the District by addressing needs encompassing those resulting from the global COVID-19 pandemic.
Gripp Grants Enable New Ways to Experience the Digital World
Thanks to a D39 Educational Foundation Gripp Grant, we have brought innovative technology to our schools, allowing students to imagine and create in a three-dimensional world. Apps such as Tinkercad and CoSpaces empower kids to design and interact with structures and spaces using virtual modeling and programming. Merge Cubes bring augmented reality to the classroom by letting students hold virtual 3D objects in the palms of their hands. The future is here at D39, thanks to your support. Visit d39foundation.org to learn more about Gripp Grants, make a donation to our Annual Appeal, and help support our D39 teachers and students.
Continue Reading Gripp Grants Enable New Ways to Experience the Digital World
Fall 2020 Gripp Grant Awarded to Romona!
Kristin Johnson, Early Childhood LBS teacher, Elizabeth Foley, Early Childhood LBS teacher, Stacy Levine, Kindergarten teacher (Romona), Kristen Olsen, Comprehensive LBS (Romona), Stephanie Boron, Early Childhood SLP, Cindy Anderson, Principal (Romona), Lisa Anderson, Assistant Principal (Romona), and Amanda Barton, Early Childhood Coordinator, received a grant to build an all-seasons outdoor classroom to be used by the District’s Early Childhood program, as well as Romona Elementary students in grades K-2. The wooden structure will take the form of a cafe including a “mud kitchen”, dining area, and work table, and will be called the Romona Mud Cafe. The goal of this project is to provide a space that allows students a year-round, nature-rich environment to learn through play-based, imaginative, and collaborative experiences. In addition, the space can be used for curriculum based lessons and will be universally accessible to the diverse community of students at Romona.
Gripp Grants Making It Easier for Students to Stay in Shape!
We are all motivated by the electronification of mileage trackers and step counters, and now, thanks to a D39 Educational Foundation Gripp Grant, students are able to track their Mileage Club progress through the innovative StrideTrack software. The card scanning system maximizes efficiency for educators, allowing for better reporting and the ability to create achievement certificates at the click of a button. Students can set mileage goals while also working on statistics and math in a fun and active way. StrideTrack also provides tools to keep students active when learning from home. Visit d39foundation.org to learn more about Gripp Grants, make a donation to our Annual Appeal, and help support our D39 teachers and students.
Continue Reading Gripp Grants Making It Easier for Students to Stay in Shape!
Educational Foundation announces a $3,000 gift to District 39 to support implementation of SORA
The Board of Trustees of the District 39 Educational Foundation proudly announces a $3000 gift to District 39 to support the implementation of SORA – the Student Reading App, from Overdrive.
Gripp Grants Fuel Innovation and Creative Learning
With mandatory masking and social distancing altering classroom structure, teachers are looking for new ways to engage students. Thanks to a District 39 Educational Foundation Gripp Grant, our four elementary schools are making great use of the QBall, a throwable, foam-covered, wireless microphone used in classrooms. Teachers use the Qball to amplify their own voices but also to encourage students to share their ideas in a novel way. During these uncertain times, Qball is making learning fun for kids and letting voices be heard beyond the mask. Visit HERE to make a donation to our Annual Appeal, and help support our D39 teachers and students.
Continue Reading Gripp Grants Fuel Innovation and Creative Learning
Foundation Awards Over $17,000 In Spring Gripp Grants!
Five Spring 2020 Gripp Grants totaling $17,104 were awarded to 12 teachers, positively impacting students and inspiring learners at each of the District 39’s six schools. Bonny Skutch, Differentiation Specialist Teacher at Central, received a grant to bring Tang Math ‘Math Mania Days’ to each of the District 39 schools, which will be co-funded by the district. Math Mania Days will provide an immersive full day experience at each school for students, teachers and parents in the 2020/21 school year and will include: student assemblies, materials for teachers and students, professional development training for teachers, and family math nights led by Greg Tang. The goal of this program is to enhance mathematical fluency for students, develop best practices for teaching math fluency for teachers, and educate parents about how to support math fluency at home. Learning Behavior Specialists, Julia Ryan (Romona), Kristen Olsen (Romona), Jen Archer (Central), Amanda Kahana (Central),…
Continue Reading Foundation Awards Over $17,000 In Spring Gripp Grants!
Foundation Donates $5,000 To District’s Angel Fund To Help D39 Families In Need
In April 2020, the Foundation donated $5,000 to the District’s Angel Fund. This fund provides qualifying families facing hardship with financial support to cover a variety of needs (school lunch, transportation costs, extracurriculars, etc.) but during the COVID-19 crisis, the fund is being directed to support food stability and Remote Learning resources. Donations can be made securely through this link: https://wilmette.revtrak.net/Angel-Fund-Donation/#/v/Angel-Fund-Donations
Continue Reading Foundation Donates $5,000 To District’s Angel Fund To Help D39 Families In Need
There Was Lots To Share And Learn At LAB39 Open House
Current students, prospective students and community members gathered at the WJHS Cafeteria on Saturday, February 22nd to see what LAB39 students had been doing since December. They were amazed at all they saw! (more…)
Continue Reading There Was Lots To Share And Learn At LAB39 Open House
Hallway Sensory Path Encore Gripp Grant Awarded in November to McKenzie School
Congratulations to Paula Lundell, McKenzie School OT, for the Encore Gripp Grant awarded to her for a hallway sensory path. Encore Grants are awarded for Foundation-funded projects that have previously been successful within D39 schools. In this case, sensory paths were awarded to each D39 elementary school last spring and are being used by students in each school with great success. McKenzie’s hallways were carpeted at that time so a sensory mat was purchased to use in the school’s motor room. Now McKenzie School has new linoleum hallways and is ready to have the same sensory path experience for its students. This Encore Grant will allow McKenzie students to benefit from a path that engages them in a sensory motor activity during transitions.
Continue Reading Hallway Sensory Path Encore Gripp Grant Awarded in November to McKenzie School
“Attire to Inspire” Fashion Show Wowed The Crowd!
Our sixth annual “Attire to Inspire Fashion Show” was standing room only at the Westmoreland Country Club on November 13th. A new venue provided the setting for some fun twists to this event. Featured fashion ran the gamut from casual to high style.
Continue Reading “Attire to Inspire” Fashion Show Wowed The Crowd!
Foundation Contributes $42,000 to District Schools for Innovative Classrooms
The District 39 Educational Foundation Board voted on May 15th to approve a donation towards the Board of Education’s strategic planning initiative to outfit innovative classrooms in all six D39 schools. A total of $42,000 will be donated — $6,000 earmarked for each elementary school, $9,000 for Highcrest Middle School, and $9,000 for Wilmette Junior High School.
Continue Reading Foundation Contributes $42,000 to District Schools for Innovative Classrooms
Two Spring 2019 Gripp Grants Awarded
Cheri Bridge and Jill Forti, Technology Specialists at WJHS, were awarded a grant to purchase 29 MERGE cubes to support the initiation of the D39 Augmented Reality program, which builds upon the existing Virtual Reality program. MERGE cubes allow students to visualize complex systems by turning 3D models into a virtual object that students can manipulate, allowing them to better ‘experience’ the content they are studying. All four elementary schools will benefit from the grant for Sensory Paths to be installed in each of the schools. A Sensory Path is an organized course typically placed in a school hallway that encourages a routine, predictable motor break and provides students with an additional place to take ‘brain breaks’ during the school day. This grant was a collaborative effort involving 10 staff members, namely: Elyse Adamo (Romona LBS), Michelle Mermelstein (Romona OT), Lindsey Barnes (Romona Early Childhood OT), Gabrielle Young (Romona 1st…
Wilmette Pub Crawl Success Leads to $4,070 Gift to Foundation
The Wilmette Pub Crawl on Thursday, May 16th was a great success with perfect weather this year! It was be a fun night to meet friends and enjoy Wilmette dining and bar establishments. Many thanks to the Wilmette Pub Crawl founders, Ted Zaller and Peter Lipsey, for the $4,070 gift they bestowed upon the D39 Educational Foundation. We are very grateful for your support.
Continue Reading Wilmette Pub Crawl Success Leads to $4,070 Gift to Foundation
Superintendent Ray Lechner Honored Through New <i>Ray of Light</i> Fund
The D39 Educational Foundation proudly announces the Ray of Light Fund in honor of Superintendent Dr. Ray Lechner at his retirement. The fund celebrates Dr. Lechner’s background, support, and advocacy of special education and inclusion programming over his 20-year tenure. Dr. Lechner’s steadfast encouragement of all students to learn and grow together not only strengthened the Wilmette community throughout all six of D39’s schools, but also positively impacted children to be advocates for one another throughout their lives. The Ray of Light Fund was designed to support and enhance inclusion efforts by encouraging positive, mutually respectful educational experiences to inspire students of all needs and abilities to learn alongside one another while fostering positive relationships. The fund will sponsor a variety of programs to benefit all D39 students, staff, and the Wilmette community to continue the inclusion efforts Dr. Lechner enriched during his time as Superintendent. The D39 Educational Foundation endowed the Ray of…
Continue Reading Superintendent Ray Lechner Honored Through New <i>Ray of Light</i> Fund
Movie Benefit Was Full Of Laughs
Dog owners and comedy lovers joined to watch “Best In Show” on Thursday, April 11th at the Wilmette Theatre fundraising event for the D39 Educational Foundation. Many viewers sent in photos of their dogs that played in a slide show prior to the movie with one lucky winner enjoying a Wilmette Pet gift. Plus a door prize of a Wilmette Park District-donated pool/beach pass for a family of 4 including beach parking pass was given to one happy attendee. Thanks to all of the wonderful Wilmette businesses and organizations that helped make this a howling good time for all!
Trivia Night 2018 Was Fun For All!
For the 7th year of Trivia Night, we changed up a lot, but made sure the fun was amped up as well! A new location at St. Joseph School created a different atmosphere. Sporcle Trivia Master and Jeopardy Champion Seth Wilson led the 19 teams through new types of trivia rounds requiring point wagering and strategy. We even added a Super Bowl Squares game to our raffle and Heads or Tails game for added fun and fundraising. The evening ended with a time for dancing and socializing so teams could mingle. Congrats to Team Livin’ On A Square for their victory over the pack in the last trivia round! Soymates won Best In Show with fabulous costumes and table decor!
$15,415 Awarded for Four Fall 2018 Gripp Grants!
Four Gripp Grants were awarded on November 14th for the Fall 2018 grant season. Jeneane Pence, Highcrest PE teacher, was awarded a grant for 30 Zone watches to assist students with heart rate monitoring during PE activities. Students will get accurate, real time feedback while still active to help them make a connection between their intensity level and heart rate. Teachers will also be able to use this information to personalize the students’ fitness goals. D39 Student Services Coordinator, Taylor Harvey and Romona/Harper Assistant Principal, Elena Ryan were awarded a grant to purchase 20 Qballs and JBL Flip portable speakers which will be used in all D39 elementary schools. A Qball is a ball-shaped microphone that sends a user’s voice via Bluetooth to a speaker that amplifies their words for all to hear. It can be passed or tossed around the classroom as students answer questions, read papers, and contribute…
Continue Reading $15,415 Awarded for Four Fall 2018 Gripp Grants!
We’re celebrating our 25th Anniversary!
It’s hard for us to believe we’ve been part of the District 39 community since 1993. Our mission continues to be: Promote educational innovation and excellence Support educators as they raise their aspirations for educational programs Increase students’ global awareness and understanding of human diversity Expand opportunities for students to fulfill their varied interests & talents Encourage community involvement & support for education We’ve do this through the awarding of Gripp Grants named in honor of Phyllis Gripp (foundation member and former D39 teacher). These encourage teachers, administrators, and others in the community to pursue innovative ideas and think beyond traditional classroom teachings. We fund what the district cannot support with tax dollars alone. What have Gripp Grants Provided?: Introduction of digital cameras, laptop carts, iPads & SmartBoards to D39 Outdoor classrooms & learning gardens at all six schools Learning Commons district wide Academic speakers such as Jo Boaler on the…
Foundation Gifts Pedal Desks to All Highcrest & WJHS Classrooms
Due to the resounding success of Meghan Espinoza’s 2017 Gripp Grant for pedal desks in her 6th grade classroom, the D39 Educational Foundation has gifted Highcrest and WJHS up to $5000 to purchase approximately 144 under-desk pedal units to be used in classrooms across the two campuses.
Continue Reading Foundation Gifts Pedal Desks to All Highcrest & WJHS Classrooms
Thank you WJHS PTO & Graduating 8th Grade Class
Thank you to the WJHS PTO and the 2017-2018 8th Grade Class for the very generous $3,325 donation. For all who donated to the 8th Grade Graduation Raffle, we appreciate your generous participation. We are honored by this gift and will use it in our Foundation efforts to enhance the educational opportunities for students throughout District 39 via Gripp Grants, Science Olympiad, in-school enrichment, and more. Congratulations WJHS graduates, best of luck in your high school endeavors!
Continue Reading Thank you WJHS PTO & Graduating 8th Grade Class
Foundation Awards Three Spring 2018 Grants
The District 39 Educational Foundation announced that three Gripp Grant’s were awarded this spring, totaling a gift of $14,031 to District 39. The Gripp Grants will impact students at Highcrest, Wilmette Junior High and those in the comprehensive needs classrooms throughout the district. Overall the District 39 Educational Foundation had a very robust year awarding 9 grants and gifting a total of $25,164. Moticams: Dr. Peter Ower, requested the purchase of 4 Moticams (one per classroom) to enhance the 7th grade science curriculum. Moticams are special cameras that can be mounted to the lab microscopes already in use at Wilmette Junior High School. These cameras will allow students to take pictures of their work in biology and share this work with their teachers and other students. The current practice is for students to hand draw what they view in the microscopes or in some cases attempt to photograph their findings with iPads. Moticams will eliminate this cumbersome practice, streamline the workflow…
Wilmette Pub Crawl
Thank you to the Wilmette Pub Crawl for donating over $3,200 in proceeds to the D39 Educational Foundation. Your support is much appreciated. Thanks also to those who attended the event and made it such a success.
April 15th “The Princess Bride” Movie Fundraiser Was A Hit!
Our screening of the classic, family movie “The Princess Bride” was a great success! Inconceivable? Not all all! The attraction of a movie liked by young and old, interactive audience participation during the showing, a costume contest, and horrible Spring weather combined to make this fundraiser a huge hit. Many thanks to the Wilmette Theatre for generously donating the venue for the event! It was a great way to lead into their “Kid’s Klassics” movies they are showing on various Sundays now through June 3rd. We appreciate all who joined us in this inaugural event that very likely will lead to more D39 Educational Foundation movie fundraisers in the future. Stay tuned next school year.
Continue Reading April 15th “The Princess Bride” Movie Fundraiser Was A Hit!
Six Fall 2017 Gripp Grants Awarded in November!
Six Gripp Grants were funded for the 2017 Fall grant cycle: Mayaan Sloane and Samantha Sutton, Highcrest Technology Innovation Specialists, were granted the purchase of video and recording equipment to transition the weekly WHMS News into a live student written, directed and executed broadcast. Currently only two students per homeroom participate in the broadcast creation and all of the editing, filming, etc. is done by Ms. Sloane and Ms. Sutton. The new, student-led format allows one homeroom each week to write, prepare, film and star in the broadcast. Students will choose roles: scriptwriter, feature creator, anchor, editor, camera operator, sound mixer, meteorologist, or producer. Every student who desires to participate will have the chance to actively create a final live broadcast shared with their classmates and community. The elementary school Differentiation Specialist Teachers, led by McKenzie’s Julie Garry, were awarded a grant to create individual recording studios. This inventive grant…
Continue Reading Six Fall 2017 Gripp Grants Awarded in November!
2017 Bingo Night Packed The Masonic Lodge With Families!
Our 4th annual Family Bingo Night on Friday, October 20th filled the Wilmette Masonic Lodge with families and fun! After many rounds with multiple winners of all ages, we ended the night with a round of blackout for $100 in cash! (more…)
Continue Reading 2017 Bingo Night Packed The Masonic Lodge With Families!
Foundation Fine Arts Committee Funds Artist-In-Residence for WJHS Workshop
The D39 Educational Foundation and District 39 partnered to host visiting Swiss Artist Verena Brassel May 16 – May 25 at WJHS. This initiative provided students with an opportunity to make connections across curriculum and explore different world views. The program was financed by the Foundation through the Lydia Martin Memorial Fund.
Continue Reading Foundation Fine Arts Committee Funds Artist-In-Residence for WJHS Workshop
10 Every Day Heroes Event Was A Night to Remember!
Our 10 Every Day Heroes Award event was a night to remember. It was an amazing opportunity to celebrate some special members of the District 39 community. These staff members were recognized for touching the lives of many and having a lasting impact on our school community. They are crossing guards, custodians, front desk staff, cooks, PE teachers and more. Read more…
Continue Reading 10 Every Day Heroes Event Was A Night to Remember!
ComedySportz Improv Teaches Students Life Skills
On March 9th and 10th Highcrest Middle School 6th graders were treated to an afternoon of improv games, learning critical skills while laughing through fun individual and team games.
Continue Reading ComedySportz Improv Teaches Students Life Skills
Science Olympiad Open House Wows!
Science Olympiad Open House Wows! Over 50 families joined Science Olympiad students and teachers at the program Open House on Saturday, February 25th. All of the courses from Food Science to Crime Busters to Bottle Rockets to Hovercraft and more were represented. Students proudly displayed the work they completed during the courses. Current HMS and WJHS students plus 4th graders looking to learn what Science Olympiad is all about were treated to enthusiastic student presentations. Congratulations to all of the Science Olympians on their great work! Thank you to Starbucks on Green Bay for donating coffee and Jewel-Osco on Green Bay for providing food for the event.
Fall 2016 Gripp Grants Awarded!
The Foundation approved two Gripp Grants for the Fall 2016 grant cycle – Breakout EDU boxes and Google Chromebooks.
SPECIAL PARENT NIGHT: The Mindset Revolution
Teaching Mathematics for a Growth Mindset The Educational Foundation and Wilmette Public Schools District 39 hosted a special Parent Night on Thursday, September 29, at WJHS. Dr. Jo Boaler, Professor of Mathematics Education & Co-Founder of YouCubed at Stanford University and Cathy Williams, Co-Founder & Executive Director of YouCubed at Stanford University discussed what it means to teach math for a growth mindset and the implications for your child. For more information about the speakers and YouCubed visit youcubed.org. This event is made possible through funding from a Foundation Gripp Grant. For more information about the event click HERE. Questions? CONTACT D39 Department of Curriculum & Instruction. 847.512.6054
Continue Reading SPECIAL PARENT NIGHT: The Mindset Revolution
Spring 2016 Gripp Grants Awarded!
The District 39 Educational Foundation is proud to distribute $12,502 to 3 D39 schools and the District’s Office of Curriculum and Instruction.
Foundation presents $40,000 to District 39 for the Learning Commons Initiative.
The District 39 Educational Foundation is proud to announce a gift of $40,000 over 4 years to the district, towards the learning commons initiative.
Continue Reading Foundation presents $40,000 to District 39 for the Learning Commons Initiative.
Our Science Olympiad Team Advances to States!
Congratulations to the JV & Varsity Science Olympiad teams for an outstanding performance at Regionals at Harper College! Varsity brought home a 1st place trophy & advances to States at U of I on April 16. (more…)
Continue Reading Our Science Olympiad Team Advances to States!
Fall 2015 Gripp Grants awarded!
The Foundation awarded four Gripp grants this fall totaling $5,802. Three grants were awarded to McKenzie school and one to the special education departments for Highcrest Middle School and Wilmette Junior High.
2015 Science Olympiad First Competition of the Season
Our 7th & 8th grade Varsity Science Olympiad team participated at the Marie Murphy competition on December 12. The kids represented the district well. They supported each other, had positive attitudes & brought home some medals
Continue Reading 2015 Science Olympiad First Competition of the Season
Spring 2015 Gripp Grants Awarded
The 2015 Spring round of Gripp Grants were awarded on March 26th. This grant cycle the Foundation approved four grants for projects at four different schools. 8th grade teachers Beth Kalish and Beth Cummo will pilot transforming a classroom at WJHS into a flexible learning space. Node desks with swivel seats and built-in stands for tablets, and white boards will be purchased to create a fluid environment. The classroom will be adaptable to suit different learning needs such as small-group work, whole classroom discussions, debates, collaborative work, etc. At HMS, 6th grade teacher Eric Resis will pilot differentiated seating options with new, adjustable-height desks. The goal is to provide movement to help maintain focus and attention. The students at McKenzie will soon have reusable water glasses and pitchers to use in the cafeteria thanks to a grant awarded to the McKenzie PTA and principal Denise Welter. This grant teaches the…
3rd Annual Trivia Night has a winner!
On Saturday, February 7th, 2015 over 200 friends, neighbors, and trivia buffs formed teams and came to the Woman’s Club of Wilmette dressed according to their own creative theme. (more…)
Fall 2014 Gripp Grants Awarded
The Foundation awarded 5 Gripp Grants this fall, totaling over $4,100. The 4th grade teachers at Romona will purchase automobile artifacts for students to examine during their inventions study using the 5 lenses of the new social studies curriculum. Romona’s Early Childhood Evaluation Team received a grant to create 3 new play scheme boxes to improve their assessment process. WJHS Drama teacher, Dinah Barthelmess at WJHS will use her grant to conduct a Process Drama unit in her Improv Classes on “Us and Them” focusing on diversity and tolerance through a collaboration with Canadian teaching artist, Margaret Boersma. Also at WJHS, Yiyi Xu, the Mandarin teacher, will purchase an application to help students with reading proficiency and advanced vocabulary. Lastly, Central’s 2nd grade teacher Susan Morris will use funds for technology to help with “fliperentiation” and cloned teacher mini lessons to reinforce concepts to accommodate the differentiation among students’ capabilities…
Rack*It Public Art Project
The Foundation is excited to announce its plans for a Community Fine Arts Project funded through the Sam Mikaelian Fine Arts Fund during the 2014-2015 school year. With the help of District 39 students, the Foundation will facilitate the fabrication and installation of three artistic bike racks in the Village of Wilmette. The Rack*It Project will begin in the art classes at all six District 39 Schools this Fall when the children are invited to design a bike rack that represents the community of Wilmette. For Highcrest and WJHS students, if your child does not have Art scheduled during the First Quarter, but wishes to participate in the Rack*It Project, he/she should contact your school’s Art Teachers. All designs must be submitted by October 31st. Each school will review the designs submitted by the children and select five designs to submit for consideration. A Design Committee, comprised of teachers from the District 39 Art Department, Foundation members, cycling advocates and community stakeholders…
Thank You for Your Donation
Thank you for your donation to the D39 Educational Foundation! Your gift is tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. You will receive an email confirmation of your donation and a letter from the foundation acknowledging your donation.
Transactions
[ESPRESSO_TXN_PAGE]
Spring 2014 Gripp Grants Awarded
For the 2013-2014 school year the Foundation has awarded over $30,000 in Gripp Grants! And, this year all six D39 schools received at least one grant to expand, enrich and complement the curriculum. Four grants were approved for the spring grant cycle. Parlez vous francais? Highcrest’s French teacher, Katie Fox’s students will be able to develop vocabulary, grasp story meaning and flow with new French fairy tale books purchased with her Gripp Grant. Using familiar tales will give students confidence, a frame of reference and enhance the foreign language reading experience. “Recess is a time for fun, but it isn’t much fun for kids who feel left out or lonely”. Ms. Belconis’ 5th grade class at Highcrest read that quote in a Scholastic News magazine article from a boy who came up with the idea for a “Buddy Bench”. The class submitted a grant and now HMS will have two…
$110,000 goal has been reached!
Thanks to the tremendous support of the community and a lot of hard work, the District 39 Educational Foundation has met its goal of raising $110,000 over a two-year period for the WJHS science labs. Earthquake towers, microscopes, DNA extraction kits and forensic detective labs are just some of the items purchased with these funds. The Foundation is proud to partner with District 39 to help bring science to life for our students!
Fall 2013 Gripp Grants Announced
The foundation will be supporting a number of innovative initiatives within the D39 schools with five new grants that were recently awarded. The grant for Central School’s 21st Century Learning Space will pilot the initial phase of creating a collaborative learning area by reconfiguring the computer lab, library and adjoining classrooms. This new student-centered space will include technologies and other tools, space configurations and furnishings to facilitate various learning modes, and more. Pre-loaded, portable audio books called Playaways, will be purchased for Harper’s library thanks to a Foundation grant. Playaways increase opportunities for students of all reading abilities to have creative, educational, and successful literature experiences both in school and at home, provide support for struggling readers, and give all students access to more challenging text. HMS will host composer Quincy C. Hilliard as artisan-in-residence for the sixth grade Hawks Band on February 19, 2014. The band will be performing…
Professional Development Gripp Grant is Awarded
Katie Lee, D39 Curriculum Coordinator, received a Professional Development grant early this fall. With this grant, Katie was able to participate in the 2013 Chinese Bridge Delegation designed to help educators start and expand their Chinese language and culture programs. The goal is to improved, enhance and develop the D39 Mandarin curriculum for grades 5-8.
Continue Reading Professional Development Gripp Grant is Awarded
Encore Application
Gripp Grant Application for School Year 2019-2020 Encore grants are given for Foundation-funded projects that have been successful elsewhere in District 39. Please use Internet Explorer 9 or above, FireFox, Chrome or Safari to submit your application.
Seedling Application
Gripp Grant Application for School Year 2019-2020 Seedling grants are given in amounts up to $500. Please use Internet Explorer 9 or above, FireFox, Chrome or Safari to submit your application.
District 39 Educational Foundation Raised $55K for Wilmette Schools
The District 39 Educational Foundation recently presented Wilmette School Board with a check for $55,000 to help fund projects for the District 39 community, according to its newsletter. The foundation is supporting District 39 and the Wilmette Junior High School science wing renovation through a private-public partnership of the Inspiring Scientist Fund, which will help provide hands-on classroom materials to complement the new science curriculum that debuts in fall 2013. The foundation is also planning to continue the Science Olympiad program next school year; the program was unveiled at Highcrest Middle School this year Posted on May 29, 2013 by Chi-an Chang in Wlmette-Kenilworth Patch
Continue Reading District 39 Educational Foundation Raised $55K for Wilmette Schools
Protected: Grant Awardee Forms
This content is password protected. To view it please enter your password below: Password:
Spring 2013 Gripp Grant announced!
Central School classrooms will be receiving Tanzanian artifact boxes to compliment their Sister School Program thanks to a Gripp Grant from the D39 Educational Foundation. Central School classrooms will be receiving Tanzanian artifact boxes to compliment their Sister School Program thanks to a Gripp Grant from the D39 Educational Foundation. Central School classrooms will be receiving Tanzanian artifact boxes to compliment their Sister School Program thanks to a Gripp Grant from the D39 Educational Foundation.
Protected: Member Area
This content is password protected. To view it please enter your password below: Password:
Jr. High Science Facility
In June 2012 the D39 Educational Foundation approved an innovative public/private partnership to dedicate fundraising efforts in support of new Wilmette Junior High Science Labs. The Foundation set a goal of raising $110,000 over the next two years to be used for these high priority enhancements and was proud to be a part of the ribbon-cutting ceremony to unveil the new science labs at WJHS in the fall of 2013. (more…)
Fall 2012 Gripp Grants announced!
The Foundation will be funding three new initiatives in D39 schools this fall. “Say Yes to Improv!” will bring 8th grade drama students at WJHS an in-depth study of the art of improvisation.