The Briarcliff Manor Education Foundation, an organization dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities in the Briarcliff Manor Union Free School District, is pleased to announce its approval of a $97,000 2016 grant that will fund innovative active learning spaces in the Briarcliff Middle School library and for the high school’s science research program and writing lab. The BMEF also approved the funding of $40,000 in additional grants for the 2016-17 academic year for initiatives spanning all three schools.
“The BMEF is extremely proud of our collaboration with the district on the grants we funded this year,” said BMEF President Carolyn Linett. “In particular, we are thrilled that we are able to donate more than $97,000 to the district for the three active learning spaces in the middle and high schools. These spaces will be transformative in how our children are taught and how they learn as the district shifts towards a student centered learning approach. This new furniture in the middle school library, science research classroom and writing lab will support the new methods used by our teachers and touch every student in those schools.”
The active learning space was developed as a collaborative effort, involving the input of students, an interdisciplinary group of teachers, building and district administrators. The effort was guided by the in-depth questions from the BMEF leadership.
“We are delighted by the generosity, cooperative spirit and visionary support of the BMEF,” said Edgar McIntosh, director of instruction and human resources. “These active learning spaces will truly promote student-centered opportunities that prepare our children for our dynamic and ever-changing world. Beyond these wonderful structures and spaces, the process in developing the project was thoughtful and collaborative. The partnerships and outcomes are inspiring.”
Each year, the BMEF receives grant applications from administrators, teachers and even students throughout the district. Through diligent fundraising efforts, the BMEF works to grant as many requests as possible each school year. Superintendent of Schools Dr. James Kaishian noted the funding of the three active learning spaces is a record BMEF contribution.
“The generous support of the BMEF not only aligns with the needs of our students, staff and the administration, but the district’s vision for the future,” said Dr. Kaishian. “I am ecstatic with the support and partnership of the BMEF with the district.”
“This significant investment in our children and schools is the result of a sincere collaboration with the district and a fruitful partnership with our community,” said Linett. “The entire BMEF board has worked hard to fulfill its mission to bring innovative initiatives to our children. We appreciate the generosity of the Briarcliff community and look forward to continued partnership and support.”
For more information about the BMEF and the 2016 grants, please visit thebmef.net.