What is the Shakopee Educational Endowment Foundation?
The Shakopee Educational Endowment Foundation (SEEF), established in 1991, is a tax-exempt, non-profit organization whose mission is to preserve and enhance the quality of education in the Shakopee School District by funding projects that provide innovative learning opportunities for our students. We believe in and support the excellence of the Shakopee School District. The Foundation secures private, supplemental funding to support valuable educational experiences and innovative projects in the Shakopee Schools.
Why is a foundation necessary for a public school system?
Property taxes and state aid primarily support the ongoing operation of our schools. The Foundation funds innovative educational ideas at the classroom, school, and district-wide levels. The funds we raise enable teachers to try new ideas or make new technology available to students that otherwise wouldn’t be funded. Your support means greater academic opportunities for all students today and into the future.
The work of the Foundation provides area businesses, service organizations, district staff, community members, and alums with a means to help enhance our great school district.
Is the Foundation part of the school district?
The Shakopee Educational Endowment Foundation is incorporated as a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation and operates independently of the Shakopee Public Schools. The Foundation works closely with the School Board, the Superintendent, administrative staff, and teachers to ensure that we only fund projects with no other sources of support and comply with district policies and capacities.
What kinds of programs does the Foundation fund?
The Teacher Grant Program funds short-term grants of $2,500 or less for projects within one school year. But because SEEF grants are seed money, the School District itself may continue the projects in subsequent years. Examples include Smart Board technology and document cameras, which were originally funded by individual teacher grants and are now employed across the district using other sources of funding. The projects we fund are meant to pique the interest of our students and develop well-rounded young adults. We encourage you to explore the lists of grant awards under the Previous Grant Awards tab of our website to appreciate the breadth and impact Foundation grants provide.
How does SEEF award funds?
Each year, teachers are invited to submit applications for projects and programs for their classroom, grade level, or school. The applications include discussions with the school principal or supervisor and, if appropriate, the Technology Director before submission to our Grant Committee. The Grant Committee evaluates the proposals before submitting them to the full Foundation board for approval.
What’s the difference between the contributions made to your child’s school PTO and the Foundation?
Contributions made to a PTO stay at that specific school and may be used to fund a variety of programming, supplies, and services. Contributions made to the Foundation may not be designated for any specific school, but the Foundation makes it a priority to ensure that funds are distributed to teachers in each school and impact students from Pre-K to 12th grade. Encourage your child’s teacher to apply for funds from SEEF’s Teacher Grant Program.
Why should you donate to the Shakopee Educational Endowment Foundation?
Donating to the Foundation is vital to ensure we maintain high-quality programs for all students. SEEF is the only fundraising organization allowed to raise money for staff and programs at all the Shakopee Public Schools. These programs change our students’ lives every day and make our local public schools strong.
The future of the Foundation relies on donations from a broad range of businesses, service organizations, local citizens, and district staff. Donations are tax-deductible and may be made online or by check. Donations of any amount are appreciated and can be made in memory of someone or in honor of a special teacher or student. The Foundation invites planned gifts such as estates, wills, trusts, stocks, and annuities; and encourages annual pledges. Gifts of $1,000 or more are recognized on the donor plaque in the Lobby of the Shakopee High School.
How else can you help?
We welcome anyone who would like to donate time, energy, or talent to help us meet our goals. Please contact us through our website to let us know your interests.
Can anyone be on the board of the Foundation?
Residents of the Shakopee Public School District or anyone with a vested interest in the improvement of Shakopee’s education are eligible to be on the board of the Foundation. If you are interested, we encourage you to contact us through our Board Member Application.