Newly Formed Education Foundation Offering Scholarships to CV Students

When Brian White was hired as Chartiers Valley’s new superintendent in 2010, he wanted a “vehicle to inspire creativity” that gave the community more of a voice within the school district.

The creation of the Chartiers Valley Education Foundation, a non-profit that is independent of the school district, is working to build community involvement and find grant money to use for classroom projects and student scholarships.

“We wanted more ways to recognize academic excellence,” White said of the Foundation. “It’s a nice way to highlight kids showing tremendous academic achievements and growth. We hope to keep trying to grow that.”

But after launching the group in late 2010, the involvement by White and the school district is minimal. The group currently has six board members and is looking to expand. It’s also looking for volunteers to bring their fundraising and grant knowledge to grow the Foundation.

Patti Figorski, a former school board member who now volunteers for the Foundation, said the group is gaining more community support.

“The folks who are here are very excited about this opportunity we have to put together for the kids,” Figorski said. “We really want to build awareness of the Foundation.”

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Last year, the CV Education Foundation gave $500 scholarships to two students. 

"$500 may not seem like a lot when it comes to a college education, but every little bit of that has helped,’ said Christina Moskal, one of the first recipients of the scholarships.

The Foundation is also trying to fund-raise and secure grant money to help teachers try new things in the classroom. White said additional grant money outside the scope of the school district allows teachers to “dream a little bit” with new classroom activities.

“Teachers are very creative and resourceful, and with a little bit a money they can do tremendous things,” White said. “Seeing those things can help an organization grown.”

• The Chartiers Valley Education Foundation is preparing to launch a website that will offer more information and tools for the community to utilize.

• Applications are due on March 29 for students who want to be considered for the 2013 scholarships.

• A Trivia Night fundraiser is being held on April 6 at the Heidelberg Volunteer Fire Department.

• The Foundation is still in need for board members and volunteers. More information can be found on the school district’s website at www.cvsd.net/pages/Chartiers_Valley_SD/Education_Foundation

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