Prairie Vista Awarded Education Foundation Grant

The Penn-Harris-Madison Education Foundation (PHMEF) continues its mission of supporting excellence in education by awarding $73,715.48 in classroom innovation grants for the 2025-2026 school year, marking one of the largest funding years in foundation history! This year Prairie Vista received $330.00 in grant dollars.

Last year, we were fortunate to receive a $10,250.00 grant written by our PTO to restore the natural prairie behind the school as an area for immersive, hands-on environmental education. The project includes adding trails, wildlife identification, bird/bat houses, and tools like microscopes and binoculars to foster conservation and STEM learning. Click to read more about that ongoing project.

Each year, PHMEF’s Annual Grant Cycle provides teachers across the district with opportunities to bring creative, hands-on learning projects to life, projects that go beyond traditional classroom resources. The grants are made possible through the generosity of community donors, local businesses, and district supporters.

During the first couple of weeks of December, PHMEF Executive Director Jennifer Turnblom surprised grant recipients. Click here to see the full photo gallery.

For the 2025-2026 school year, Prairie Vista was awarded one EZ grant (under $750). The description is listed below:

1. Engaging Early Learners Through the Fundations Fun Hub
Kari James • $330.00
Fundations Kindergarten Online Resource

“On behalf of the entire PHM Education Foundation Board I want you to know how deeply we believe in our teachers and staff,” said PHMEF Executive Director Jennifer Turnblom. “Your dedication, and passion for making a positive impact are what make our schools truly exceptional. We are committed to funding your innovative ideas because you are the heart of excellence in PHM, and we are proud to support the remarkable work you do every day.”

For more on the P-H-M Education Foundation’s 2025-26 grant awards, click here.