The Southwest Education Fund recently awarded more than $10,000 for new innovative programs in literacy, bullying prevention, listening skills, and food production, according to Angela Seymour, Chair of the Committee.

The committee was made up of community members Janet Lawrence, Jim Roe, Peggy Shrum, and Kati Rose.

“The actual amount requested was $10,701.94, and we had $10,109,” said Seymour. “We were so close to funding all of our requests and did not want to leave anybody out, so the committee decided to go to the community and raise the remaining $600 in order to fund all 10 projects, which is amazing.”

Agricultural educator Taya Haitt requested $3,075 for an automated hydroponics system and building materials for raised planter beds to help grow fresh produce for the school’s Backpack Program that provides additional food for more than 30 families in the district.

“Students will apply skills in agriculture, science, math, and nutrition, and our underserved families will benefit from fresh food grown on campus,” Hiatt said.

Middle School Principal Christy Hermansen and Counselor Lauren Lumpkins together requested $2,000 for an anti-bullying program. November is National Bullying Prevention Month, and the middle school will participate in a Think Before You Post program. Hermansen said the presentation does not discourage students’ presence on social media but rather challenges them to think critically about how online actions can affect relationships.

High school teachers Ashley Roe and Linda Morgan teamed up to request $2,900 for math and literacy in the real-world programs. The materials focus on practical problem-solving and strive to transfer classroom learning to adult life situations. The other teachers and counselors who earned funds included: 

• Sheri Epling — middle school science testing platform ($274)

• Paula Rawlings — middle school literacy ($200)

• Rebekah Pike — middle school literacy ($235)

• Mackenzie Brooks — elementary bullying prevention ($500)

• Jordi Miller — high school bullying prevention ($1,000)

• Tacy Lawrence — pre-school listening center ($522)

Seymour said the fund was made possible by gifts from the community into an endowment fund through the Community Foundation of the Ozarks. Individuals and organizations wishing to make donations to this fund can do so through one-time donations, yearly donations, consider the foundation in estate planning, and attend fundraisers. People may contact Rachael Freeman at [email protected].