Just as area students moved into summer vacation mode, the Northwestern Lehigh Educational Foundation presented a check for $168,000 to the Northwestern Lehigh School District that would impact their lives when they resumed their education in the fall.

“This year’s funds support programs like GROW Grants, the Artists in Residence series, support and care for Baxter, our beloved support dog, and many other initiatives that enrich the classroom experience,” said NWLEF president Valerie Kile at the June board meeting.

Kile was joined by vice president Erin Vermeulen and development director Amy Kinnon for the ceremonial check presentation. This annual tradition celebrates the culmination of a fiscal year dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities throughout the district.

District Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Holman couldn’t be more grateful.

“We are very fortunate to have such an outstanding partnership with the Northwestern Lehigh Educational Foundation,” she said. “This collaboration has provided our teachers and students with access to an array of innovative resources, enriching learning experiences, and dynamic educational programs.”

In all, the foundation has raised and contributed over $2.3 million to the district.

“The funds represent a combination of Educational Improvement Tax Credit donations and GROW grants — mini-grants submitted by teachers to fund innovative classroom projects,” Kile explained.

Holman had high praise for the foundation.

“Through the generous support of the NWLEF, students and teachers across all grade levels are empowered with the tools and technology they need to explore creativity, strengthen collaboration, and develop problem-solving skills,” she said.

“This year’s funding will support several exciting initiatives, including the enhancement of the high school fitness and cardio room, elementary Makerspaces, and investments in music technology programs at both the high school and middle school levels,” Holman said. “These opportunities ensure every student receives a high-quality, future-ready education.”

Kile credits “the generosity of community members and local partners in bridging funding gaps by supporting innovative programs not typically covered by the public-school budget.”

“We raise funds through three events each year including a 5K, clay shoot and golf tournament, as well as business sponsorships and direct donations,” Kile said.

NWLEF is a nonprofit organization committed to enhancing the educational experience of all students within the Northwestern Lehigh School District. “We currently have 15 volunteer board members and a part-time development director,” Kline said.

The organization, which was founded in 2007, funds innovative programs and learning opportunities not covered by traditional budgets.

“We are incredibly grateful for the NWLEF’s ongoing commitment to the success of our students and staff,” Holman said. “Their continued generosity plays a vital role in helping us achieve our mission of developing a community minded learner who is prepared to grow and thrive in an ever-changing world.”

“We believe deeply in the power of public education and the importance of investing in the future of our students,” Kile said. “Together, we’re investing in the future — one student, one classroom, and one opportunity at a time.”

The next NWLEF event is the gold tournament scheduled for Aug. 11 at Olde Homestead Country Club. More information on all events can be found at https://nwlef.org/events