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A lunchtime discussion 25 years ago has turned into a program that has benefited hundreds of Henryetta students.
ed foundation logoThe Henryetta Education Foundation has provided nearly $500,000 in teacher grants and scholarships since 1997.
James McCullough, president of the HEF board, told Henryetta Rotary club members the organization wants to, “encourage, enrich and empower not only the students but teachers as well.”
He explained the Foundation provides several thousand dollars in grants each year to teachers enabling them to buy materials or equipment to use in their classrooms for their students.
In addition to the teacher grants, the organization oversees money donated by HHS alumni and classes that go to scholarships and special awards for deserving students.
A third aim for the group is to broaden the cultural experience for students. In the past, students have been able to attend musicals or visit museums. “That would give some students an opportunity to go to places they may never get to go to otherwise,” he said. The funds purchase admission as well as provide transportation.
Board member David Warden recounted one instance where a student went to a winter musical. “When he came out, it had started snowing in Tulsa. He said the snow falling, the downtown Tulsa buildings and lights and said it looked like New York City. What an experience it was for him.”
Funding for the programs has come from dinners, auctions and even ticket sales.
This year the Foundation will be giving away a zero-turn Kubota lawnmower and trailer. McCullough said there will be a limited number of tickets available starting in February with the drawing to be held Father’s Day weekend.
“All of that money will be going back into the school system, he said.