Innovative Programs
Proposed innovative projects are brought to the Education Foundation’s attention by a committee of Foundation and School District Administration members who identify projects which align with KASD’s priorities and strategic plans. The Education Foundation approves and provides funding for innovative projects throughout all grade levels. These funds are intended to supplement existing school activities, thus providing new learning opportunities not covered by local tax dollars. Many of these initiatives are funded with Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) donations made by community businesses.
Teacher Mini-Grants
In 2023, we proudly launched our mini-grant initiative for teachers. We invited them to submit their creative proposals, and the response was incredible! Last year, we were thrilled to fund ten innovative projects in the district.
2025 Mini-Grants
The Kutztown Area School District Education Foundation is pleased to announce the awarding of mini-grants for the 2024-25 school year. Students from every building will benefit from the wide variety of projects submitted. A complete list of the plans by building is here.
“Your support makes a meaningful impact on our students, providing them with opportunities that enhance their learning experiences.”
~ Beth Hartz, Tori Gillan, and Janelle Moser on behalf of special education and the Garden Club.
The Inspiration Garden
This project turned a grassy area at the east end of Kutztown High School near the stadium into a place of inspiration and reflection for everyone who visits. This project includes a large mural and a small garden with information placards connecting you to local stories, quotes, photos, and more.
BCIU STEM Design Challenge
This year, the Kutztown Area School District Education Foundation is proud to support the upcoming 5th Grade BCIU STEM Design Challenge Showcase. At this event, students from both Kutztown Elementary and Greenwich Elementary will present their creative solutions to families and the school community. While only two teams from each school can advance to the competition, this showcase ensures that every student has the opportunity to share their hard work and innovation with a broader audience.
We look forward to celebrating our students’ achievements together!
Imagination Library
Free books for kids! The KASD Education Foundation launched this program in November 2020. Through this program, we supply free books for children (ages 0-5) through the Imagination Library book gifting program. Each child living in the district who is enrolled in the program will receive one new book each month from birth up to their 5th birthday. Registrations are accepted year-around. To register your child to receive this free gift of literacy, simply go to www.imaginationlibrary.com, scroll down and click on the link that says “Can I Register My Child?” or click on the Sign-up button on the webpage.
Research shows that children in the United States who participate in the Imagination Library experience powerful early‑literacy benefits:
94% are more likely to be interested in books.
95% are more likely to join in during shared book reading.
94% are more likely to ask for books.
95% are more likely to hold and engage with the book during reading time.
Caregivers are 94% more likely to use books to explain emotions and images.
“My dream has always been to help children love books and love learning, no matter where they live. It warms my heart to know this research shows the difference books can make.” — Dolly Parton
Source: Imagination Library International Research Library
Support-A-Scholar
This program began during the 2019-2020 school year when the school district created partnerships with Kutztown University and Reading Area Community College.
For the 2025–26 school year, 53 Kutztown students are getting a head start on college through the Support‑A‑Scholar (dual-enrollment) Program, completing 72 college‑level courses at institutions such as Kutztown University, Penn State Berks, and Reading Area Community College, as examples.
To make this opportunity accessible, the Education Foundation will help defray the cost for district families. This support has played an important role in removing financial barriers and encouraging students to challenge themselves academically.
Support the program by donating today. Please specify that your donation is for the Support‑A‑Scholar Program.
Cougar Resilience Campaign
The Education Foundation, through the generosity of its donors, was able to boost the resilience of all employees of the Kutztown Area School District. The marquee at the Strand and a banner across Main St. proclaimed the community’s thanks for our hardworking educators. Some educators won prizes through a raffle, while all employees received gift cards from local restaurants. To say the employees were surprised and appreciative is definitely an understatement. See a sample of pictures and quotes.
Supportive Technology
Supporting technology initiatives in all grade levels has been a priority of the Foundation, beginning with the One-to-One laptop initiative, supported from its inception.
Technology equipment was purchased to assist students preparing History Day projects.
Through the years, computers, iPads, projectors, digital cameras, printers, software, and network upgrades were purchased to enhance the academic curriculum.
Renovation Projects
Funds were provided for the fencing around the high school athletic stadium.
Support was provided for the dedication of the high school “John Silan Gymnasium”.
