Page 6 - HEF CoE 2023

ACELEBRATIONOFEXCELLENCE ABOUT THE HELENA EDUCATION FOUNDATION
CONNECTIONS
The Helena Education Foundation
(HEF) is a leader among Montana’s public school foundations. Supporting students and educators, the Foundation enriches our schools, helping to make our Helena community a healthy, happy, and prosperous place to live, work, and raise
a family.
PROGRAMS
HEF’s programs benefit students, teachers, parents, administrators, and the community. No doubt, you or someone you know has been impacted by our work.
u Carnival Classic kicks off each school year with a community-wide celebration of public education.
u Fabulous Firsts gives incoming first graders copies of age-appropriate, hard-cover books of their own and gives full sets to school libraries.
u Great Conversations provides a night of thought-provoking conversation about relevant topics to promote life-long learning.
u Let’s Talk About Great Teachers acknowledges, at the Great Conversations event, educators who make a significant difference in the lives of our children every day.
u Trading Places fosters understanding and collaboration by linking community and school leaders.
u Great Ideas Grants award more than $40,000 annually to teachers for innovative classroom projects and experiences.
u Spark Grants offer educators frequent and accessible funding for enrichment opportunities for students. HEF awards $12,000 plus in Spark Grants each year.
u Celebration of Excellence honors distinguished graduating scholars, achievers, and their educators—celebrating excellence, drive,
and leadership.
u Issues Institutes provide unique learning opportunities on current and emerging topics affecting youth and families as well as topics that elevate our community and enhance the desirability of Helena as a place to live. Past Issues Institutes have addressed opioid addiction (Chasing the Dragon), teen suicide (Cracked Not Broken), and space exploration (A Celebration
of Earth Day with a Trip to Mars).
u Harrison Writing Awards focus on the importance of writing skills and recognize outstanding young writers with cash awards.
u Pen & Ink magazine features the creative work of student writers and artists.
6 | A CELEBRATION OF EXCELLENCE 2023
HELENA EDUCATION FOUNDATION