WHAT WE DO

We empower, uplift, and ignite innovation within the Gilbert Public School District through our Innovation Grants, Scholarship Program, STEAM Education Initiatives, Varsity Letter in Volunteerism Program, Campus Enrichment, and our community-focused S.H.A.N.E. Program.

STUDENTS

We are pleased to be able to offer scholarships to Gilbert Public Schools graduating seniors.   We offer scholarships for all GPAs, fields of study, types of schools, etc. Do not miss this opportunity to help fund your education!


You may apply for as many different scholarships as you choose, however, you will only be awarded one scholarship. 


Online application typically opens each November and and closes in March.  Applications must be submitted online through the scholarship portal by deadline or will not qualify. Each scholarship has its own specific application. Be sure to check that you are filling out the correct application for the scholarship you wish to apply, meet the eligibility listed, and follow the specific instructions.


Application Dates:


Opens: November 18th, 2024

Closes: March 3rd, 2025

Awarded: April 4th, 2025


HOW YOU CAN HELP

College expenses continue to rise faster than the general cost of living. In today’s ever-changing world, our students need the ability to secure their future with education and training upon graduation. Gilbert Education Foundation awards over $25,000 annually to graduating seniors.

 

There are two ways you can help Gilbert Public School students through our scholarship program:

 

  • Any individual or group may honor a cause or the memory of a loved one by establishing a scholarship with the Gilbert Education Foundation (GEF).  GEF serves as the steward of the funds, managing the distribution of the initial gift and future contributions (if desired). GEF will solicit applications for your scholarship, using the criteria you have set. Typically, the donor has no role in the selection process unless otherwise decided upon by the donor. Selection is done by an independent scholarship committee. Interested? Contact us at info@gefaz.org


  • Donors can contribute any amount to GEF’s scholarship program to help fund our existing scholarships. 


BASIC ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR STAFF SCHOLARSHIPS


Must be in good standing as an employee of the GPS district.

Must be employed with the district when coursework, class or workshop is scheduled.

Cannot be used for reimbursement of past classes, coursework, etc.


Online application typically opens each November and and closes in March.  Applications must be submitted online through the scholarship portal by deadline or will not qualify.


Application Dates:


Opens: November 18th, 2024

Closes: March 3rd, 2025

Awarded: April 4th, 2025



INNOVATION GRANTS

Grant Portal

Gilbert Education Foundation (GEF), is committed to empowering educators and all GPS staff by funding innovative projects and programs through our Innovation Grant Program.


These grants, up to $1,500, are awarded to initiatives that align with GEF’s mission to enrich student education, significantly enhancing learning experiences and fostering student success.

The Innovation Grant Program is primarily funded by our annual Power of One campaign, along with generous support from community sponsors. Together, we’re making a lasting impact on education in our community.


Application Dates:


Opens: October 14th, 2024

Closes: November 11th, 2024

Awarded: December 12th, 2024

Who may apply:
 Any GPS employee in good standing is eligible to apply. 


 Application guidelines and information:

  • Annual Timeline: Grant application portal in opens in October, closes in November, awarded in December and funded in January and must be completed by the end of the academic year.
  • Review Process: Applications are scored through a blind reading process by GEF’s  innovation grant committee, including board members and community leaders.
  • Grants are intended to fund new and enriching initiatives, not to replace items covered by the district budget.
  • More specific details, guidelines, rules, etc. are included on the grant application.


How to apply:

  • Click on the grant portal link to set up your account.
  • Once you connect to the GEF grants portal Click on “Create a New Account” and Choose User Type: “GPS Staff Member”



VARSITY LETTER IN VOLUNTEERISM

Varsity Letter in Volunteerism Application

Our Varsity Letter program encourages GPS students to volunteer throughout the valley, supporting our foundation’s goal of building a stronger community.


Each year, the Gilbert Education Foundation and Gilbert Public Schools recognize students who volunteer 200+ hours with a high school varsity letter in volunteerism. This program offers students a chance to earn a letter outside of academics or athletics while gaining valuable experiences.



Hours can be accumulated over all four years of high school, starting the summer before freshman year. For every 200 hours, students can apply annually to receive a varsity letter or a pin for subsequent years.

Requirements

  • Must be a student in grades 9-12 in a Gilbert Public School.
  • Complete at least 200 hours of verified volunteer hours.
  • Must have at least 50 hours of non-school related volunteering (i.e. a nonprofit or civic service setting)
  • Student must have a cumulative GPA minimum of 2.0 


Application Dates:


Opens: November 18th, 2024

Closes: March 3rd, 2025

Awarded: April 4th, 2025


 S.T.E.A.M. Initiatives        

DONATE TODAY

To increase STEAM education within the district, GEF partners with businesses to help fund extensive Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math curriculum (STEAM). Support is granted for programs that fall under this category as our funding permits. We further drill down on this initiative to increase participation and interest with female students to promote women in STEAM fields. We have funded makerspaces, specialized STEAM curriculum and supplies such as coding bots, drones, robotics, science fairs, and the annual GPS Girls STEMPowered Day. 

ENRICHMENT

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Enriching Education, Empowering Futures

We are dedicated to enriching our district's educational experience, ensuring every student thrives. From celebrating excellence through the Employee of the Year Awards to bringing joy and comfort with campus therapy dogs and creating unforgettable moments with special events and innovative learning experiences, our initiatives go beyond the ordinary. We help bridge gaps left by budget constraints, providing GPS students with opportunities that cultivate curiosity, resilience, and success. By investing in these programs, we not only support our students but also empower parents, educators, and the entire community to achieve greatness together. Join us in making a lasting impact on the future in our community and beyond.


S.H.A.N.E. PROGRAM

The heart of the Gilbert Education Foundation is where compassion meets action through our S.H.A.N.E. Program – Sharing, Helping, and Nurturing Everyone. Our unique social services initiative supports both district families and GPS employees during emergencies, ensuring that housing, transportation, food, clothing, daycare, and utilities are never beyond reach. Through the help of the district social workers, the promise of the S.H.A.N.E program is to turn temporary hardship into hope with every act of generosity. If you need help, please reach out to your campus (or department) social worker. 



For our donors, your contributions are the lifeline that sustains this vital program. Every dollar you give transforms lives, offering stability and comfort when needed. For those seeking assistance, our process is straightforward and compassionate, designed to address your immediate needs with respect and dignity. With your help, we can continue to share, help, and nurture everyone in our community, ensuring no one faces an emergency alone and connecting those in need with vital community resources. Join us in making a tangible difference—because together, we thrive.

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