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Our Mission

The GIPS Foundation partners with our community to build support that ensures every Grand Island Public Schools student has access to resources and opportunities, empowering them to thrive and dream big.

  • Classroom grants enhance student learning experiences and provide teachers the opportunity to try out new ideas, making learning both fun and effective for students.
    Take a look.

  • Want to help Grand Island students chase their dreams? Come to the Harvest event – a night of fun, awesome auctions, and inspiring stories about how your support helps students thrive.
    Find out more.

  • The Bill and Bea Southard Endowed Fund is stepping up to ensure that no student misses out on learning opportunities just because of their finances.
    Read more.


  • "I encourage all teachers to apply for Classroom Grants. “Let Your Creativity Glow” was only one of the many grants during my career. It reached our SECA-Social Emotional Creative Arts class in 2024 and continues today during the annual art show each year! Thank you for the opportunities!!"

    - Colette Sorensen, former Shoemaker Elementary Teacher

  • To the Class of 2025, we awarded 182 scholarships, totaling over $693,000! That's a powerful investment in our student's future.
    To the Class of 2025, we awarded 182 scholarships, totaling over $693,000! That's a powerful investment in our student's future.

    $693,823

  • For the 2024-2025 school year, 14 grants totaling $12,091 was awarded through the Classroom Grant process. These 14 Classroom Grants benefited GIPS 6,346 students.
    For the 2024-2025 school year, 14 grants totaling $12,091 was awarded through the Classroom Grant process. These 14 Classroom Grants benefited GIPS 6,346 students.

    $12,091

August 4, 2025

The GIPS Foundation is excited to announce the opening of its annual Classroom Grants program, empowering dedicated GIPS teachers to bring innovative learning experiences to life for their students. This vital program funds educational opportunities that extend beyond the district’s general budget, fostering creativity and enriching the academic journey for thousands of Grand Island students.

July 30, 2025

At the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation, our mission extends beyond supporting students—we are also deeply committed to empowering the educators and staff who shape their success. Through the Dr. Eugene Miller Professional Development Grant and the newly established GIPS Foundation Professional Development Grants, we are proud to invest in the continued growth and excellence of our district’s professionals. Each grant awards $1,000 toward further education or training that supports the applicant’s current role and future goals within Grand Island Public Schools.

July 15, 2025
byGeorge Ayoub

Volume 10 | Number 4

Welcome to the July 2025 edition of Rise, the voice of Grand Island Senior High alumni and friends. In this edition we hear about Dollywood, the Foundation's summer activities, and a bird far from home. Visit the July Rise newsletter for these stories and more. Stay in touch, Islanders. And remember: Keep pushing on.

students

Together, We Can Make a Difference

Every year, your generosity makes a world of difference for our students at Grand Island Public Schools and to the GIPS Foundation. Remember that time a GIPS senior couldn’t afford their cap and gown? Or when a middle schooler needed new sports shoes? Thanks to your support, we were there to help.

  • It is encouraging to be a part of a district that supports my growth as an educator.
    It is encouraging to be a part of a district that supports my growth as an educator.

    Tristen Gardner, GISH

  • We are so thankful for the opportunities that GIPSF and all of the generous donors have offered us.
    We are so thankful for the opportunities that GIPSF and all of the generous donors have offered us.

    Leah, GISH student

  • The GIPS Foundation sure knows how to make teachers feel appreciated!
    The GIPS Foundation sure knows how to make teachers feel appreciated!

    Michelle Thorne, Wasmer Elementary

  • Every dollar, every gift, brings us closer to a brighter future for our students.
  • Supporting the whole student is important to any students' success.
    Supporting the whole student is important to any students' success.

    Valerie Porto, GIPSF Board

  • Impacting someone's life is an INCREDIBLE FEELING
  • You are a part of our SUCCESS
  • I give to the GIPS Foundation so that all students have the opportunity to expand their horizons.
    I give to the GIPS Foundation so that all students have the opportunity to expand their horizons.

    Jacqueline Proctor, Walnut Middle

  • Scholarships
    Scholarships

    Supporting students in achieving their dreams and goals.

  • GIPS Foundation's work ensures that every student has the support they need to learn, grow, and succeed.
    GIPS Foundation's work ensures that every student has the support they need to learn, grow, and succeed.

    Jacob Morrow, Westridge Middle

  • Donations allow staff to receive Classroom Grants, which provide unique and beneficial opportunities.
    Donations allow staff to receive Classroom Grants, which provide unique and beneficial opportunities.

    Gina Harpham, Barr Middle

  • Compassion Grants
    Compassion Grants

    These funds ensure students have all the resources for success - year after year.

  • It just means a lot that people recognize my passion and the joy I get from helping kids learn.
    It just means a lot that people recognize my passion and the joy I get from helping kids learn.

    Tyler Madison, Walnut Middle

  • Classroom Grants
    Classroom Grants

    Empowering teachers to ignite innovative learning experiences.

  • GIPS Foundation hears about a need in our school district and they help find ways to meet that need for our students.
    GIPS Foundation hears about a need in our school district and they help find ways to meet that need for our students.

    Beth Schott, Knickrehm Elementary

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