The Groton-Dunstable Education Foundation awarded $20,689 in funding for fifteen different projects for its Fall 2005 grant cycle.  As in previous cycles, the grants cover all disciplines and also bolster a number of programs already in place through previous GDEF grants.  Many of the Fall 2005 grants focus on Science and Technology: Boutwell students will be visited by a meteorologist to learn about weather; elementary students will learn to navigate natural environments through orienteering skills; and High School students will explore alternative energy sources and visit local bridges to understand structural engineering.  Arts and cultural programs at all levels continue to benefit from GDEF support, with grants for Native American Music Connections, Theatre Arts appreciation, and Foreign Language curriculum materials.  For an overview of grants awarded, visit the Grants page on the GDEF website at www.gdefinc.org.

GDEF funding enriches the curriculum in a variety of ways, from purchasing equipment to providing professional resources for teachers and students.  Equipment purchases over several grant cycles have allowed the High School to pursue and expand opportunities for students in Videography and Robotics.  Investing in cameras and equipment allows the High School to offer these creative programs to more students more often, and at more advanced levels.  The Native American music and Theatre Arts grants will allow artists to share their talents directly with students through workshops and presentations.

GDEF directors also noted that over the course of the Foundation’s five grant cycles, several District teachers and staff have developed considerable grant-writing skills.  In each school, individuals have consistently submitted clear, well-written proposals for innovative, creative programs that seek to enrich the academic environment.  Very often, GDEF programs take students outside the classroom to create learning opportunities in nature and the broader community and the Foundation hopes that teachers, staff and community members will continue to bring these ideas to the Foundation.  It is never too soon to think about the next grant cycle; the deadline for spring 2006 proposals is April 1st, and applications are available on the Foundation’s website at www.gdefinc.org.

GDEF’s mission is to fund those projects or professional development programs that fortify the educational experience in the Groton-Dunstable regional public school system.  While the Foundation's vision focuses on academic-- and arts-oriented programs, GDEF considers any proposal which seeks to engage a student's curiosity, encourage a love of learning and desire to strive for excellence, and fosters the overall development of the student.

The Foundation expresses its appreciation for the financial support of the towns of Groton and Dunstable, and for the generous spirit in which it is given.