Highlights from Foundation 65’s 2025–2026 grants
What happens when educators have the resources to turn an idea into reality? Across District 65, Foundation 65 grants helped educators create new opportunities for students to learn, grow, and thrive—from targeted academic support to programs that celebrate identity and strengthen belonging.
Here are a few highlights from this year's work.
Supporting academic growth
At Dawes Elementary, the Math Acceleration After School Program helped second graders strengthen their math skills through targeted instruction and individualized support. Ninety-six percent of participating students achieved at least one year of typical growth on the i-Ready Diagnostic assessment.
Project Excite also returned after a multi-year pause, connecting 50 third- and fourth-grade students with enrichment opportunities and Evanston Township High School student volunteers. Students' enthusiasm was clear: they consistently asked when the next session would take place.
Celebrating identity and belonging
Through the Black Girl Magic Book Club, 95 students explored books featuring Black female protagonists, creating opportunities to celebrate identity and discover new stories. At Nichols Middle School, EmpowHer supported 37 Black and Brown girls through mentoring and activities focused on leadership, wellness, and self-advocacy.
These programs demonstrate that student success is about more than academics. Students also need opportunities to see themselves reflected in their learning, develop confidence, and feel connected to their school communities.
Creating new possibilities
Foundation 65 grants also helped educators bring innovative ideas into classrooms. At Park School, a 3D-printing project created tools to support students with different communication and learning needs. Across kindergarten classrooms, hands-on literacy materials gave young learners new ways to explore ideas and engage with reading.
Each project began with educators identifying a need and imagining a different way to meet it. Foundation 65 helped make those ideas possible.
Investing in educators. Expanding what's possible.
The impact of these grants can be seen in measurable academic growth, stronger student engagement, new leadership opportunities, and experiences that help children feel seen and valued. Educators also identified opportunities to strengthen their programs and build on what they learned.
Foundation 65 cannot replace the public funding our schools need. But community support can help educators bring promising ideas to life and create opportunities that might not otherwise exist.
Thank you to the educators, community partners, and donors who made this work possible. Together, we're building what comes next for District 65 students.