COM M U N I T Y
N o r m an P u blic S c h o o l Fou ndation
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Non-profit supports public school students, honors long-time supporters
n 1984, 78 community leaders each invested $1,000 as seed money to start the Norman Public School Foundation, a non-profit organization designed to enhance educational experiences for students in Norman Public Schools. “The foundation was designed to support students and we do that by supporting our teachers too,” said Executive Director Alesha Leemaster. “When teachers have innovative ideas, we can help make them a reality.” Since its inception, the Foundation has invested nearly $3 million in schools through its classroom grants program. Over the years, grants have purchased a variety of instructional materials and classroom tools including a mini PCR lab, 3D printers, weather forecasting equipment, a slab roller for art projects, supplies for a pollinator garden, digital microscopes and even specialized kitchen equipment for students with special needs. “The science behind what teachers are doing and what takes place inside classrooms today is pretty amazing,” said Jim Wade, board member-at-large for the Foundation’s board of directors. “The opportunities kids have access to thanks to these grants is incredible.” NPS teachers and administrators can apply for classroom enhancements each semester and grants are
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awarded through a blind selection process. “The grants show teachers how much the community supports what they do,” said Leemaster. “It is affirmation of the good work our teachers are doing. They are so excited, and the kids are too.” In the first year of the grant program, Leemaster said the foundation awarded $13,000 in teacher grants. This year that total has grown to $250,000. Additionally, the Foundation also supports district initiatives like the NPS Learning Bus and scholarships for summer enrichment camps for students who qualify for free or reduced lunch. Leemaster confirmed that the Foundation’s efforts have been made possible because of years of strong community support. “We are able to invest in our students because of the incredible board of directors, past and present, and community members that support the Foundation, people who have donated their time, finances and passion,” she said. Wade said he was inspired to get involved with the Foundation because of the priority placed on cultivating opportunities for young people in Norman.
