Grants 2010-2011
In its third year of grantmaking, the 4SRanch~Del Sur Community Foundation awarded $15,000 in grants to community nonproifts. The grant focus area in this cycle was Technology.
Grants were awarded to the following organizations and programs:
“G” Computer Lab Upgrade - Stone Ranch Elementary School
$5,000 was awarded to Stone Ranch Elementary School to purchase six computers and to upgrade the wiring requirements for the computers in the "G" Computer Lab. The computer lab upgrade was crucial due to the anticipated increase in class size in grades K-3; the upgraded lab would be able to serve a class of 30 students. Through class-wide technology instruction, Stone Ranch sought to increase students' MAPS scores, CST performance, placement in Pre-Algebra classes, and continued use of technology in classroom projects, and research.
Smart Music Program - Oak Valley Middle School Music Boosters
$5,000 was awarded to the Oak Valley Middle School Boosters to make the Smart Music program available to the 400 students in band classes. Smart Music is an electronic music program with 5,000 student exercises to improve scales, arpeggios, twisters, improvisation, and ear training. By practicing at home with Smart Music, students can complete and turn in self assessments and practice times electronically and access band and orchestra sheet music from their home computers. The streamlined program allows the middle school's band teachers to grade performance and distribute music "greenly" and efficiently.
Technology Expansion - Friends of the 4S Ranch Library
$5,000 went to support a technology expansion program orchestrated by the Friends of the 4S Ranch Library. The goal of the multimedia program is to use technology to reach and encourage library goers of diverse ages, cultures, and socioeconomic backgrounds, and to increase awareness of the library as a community resource. Equipment purchased with 4SCF funding will be used for starting online book clubs for teens and children and for supporting English as a Second Language learners.
Grants 2009-2010
In its second year of grantmaking, the 4SRanch~Del Sur Community Foundation accepted proposals in the field of Civil Society - Community Outreach & Engagement, with an emphasis on Safety, Youth and Education. $8,500 in grants went to organizations in and / or serving the 4SRanch and Del Sur community.
Grants were awarded to the following organizations and programs:
Accelerated Math - Stone Ranch Elementary School
$5,500 helped Stone Ranch Elementary School to purchase student subscriptions for Accelerate Math, a computer-based math program with in-school and at-home components. The program assists teachers with monitoring student progress and diagnosing student needs. In the previous year, Stone Ranch saw significant improvement in student math proficiency across grade levels and many teachers credited the use of Accelerate Math. Thanks 4SCF funding, that success can continue.
Student Learning 24/7 - Del Sur Elementary School
$2,000 supported the purchase of Compass Learning, a computer-based instructional program that provides access to remedial education at home and at school for Del Sur students who need extra help in meeting state standards in reading and math. The program allows students to participate in one-on-one instruction through the computer 24 / 7, increasing access to learning opportunities for the school's neediest students. This grant was the result of collaboration between Del Sur and Monterey Ridge Elementary Schools following the success of the 4SCF grant to Monterey Ridge for Student Learning 24/7 in 2008.
Music Outreach Program - Oak Valley Music Boosters
$1,000 went to support music outreach by Oak Valley Middle School band, orchestra and ensemble students. Funding to the Booster program supported the purchase of new sheet music, transportation to performances and the insurance necessary for students to perform at community events. Through music outreach, the Boosters seek to increase the school's connection to the 4S Ranch community and to get elementary school students interested in the middle school's music programs.
Grants 2008-2009
In its first year of grantmaking, the 4SRanch~Del Sur Community Foundation accepted proposals in the fields of youth education and youth services. $12,000 in grants were awarded to community organizations and nonprofits serving the 4S Ranch and Del Sur community.
Grants were awarded to the following organizations and programs:
Student Learning 24-7 - Monterey Ridge Elementary School
$6,000 supported the purchase of Compass Learning, a computer-based program that provides students with 24 / 7 access to remedial education. The program uses innovative technology to align student needs with unique curricula to improve math and reading and to bring students up to par with grade level standards. And, because the program is web-based, the neediest students have increased access to learning opportunities during non-school hours.
Oak Valley Middle School Music Program
$6,000 supported the purchase of instruments and sheet music, transportation to music festivals and helped to pay festival fees for Oak Valley Middle School band, orchestra and ensemble students. Through increased participation in regional festivals, music students are provided with increased assessment and are better prepared for state and regional band and orchestra auditions.