Each year, Sampson County Schools uses money from local, state and federal funds. But sometimes it’s not enough for teachers to go above and beyond in the classroom.

Generous organizations and businesses fill in the gaps. During a monthly meeting for the Board of Education, about 150 educators were recognized for their grant seeking efforts. Susan Warren, public relations and student services coordinator, applauded the work which took place since last fall.

“A lot of times, we talk about so many funding cuts and I’d like to commend our teachers for providing these opportunities to broaden the horizons of their students and to make their classrooms more innovative by writing out these grants and seeking these funds to put in their classrooms,” Warren said.

Many of the grants came through Sampson County Friends of Education, which receives funding through United Way of Sampson County; and Bright Ideas, which is sponsored by North Carolina Electric Cooperatives. Total funding from the two funding sources was more than $72,600.

Some of the projects involved reading, technology, science, physical education and health. While speaking about the local opportunities, Warren said the total was more than previous years.

“It all goes back to these teachers and the tremendous jobs they’re doing in these classrooms and plus the supports they’re getting in the schools,” Warren said about the all-time high amount.

The Sampson County Love of Learning Grant program through the Simple Gifts Fund, made contributions to teachers too. More than $60,000 was donated to local educators.

“The Love of Learning program in the last few years has grown by leaps and bounds,” Warren said.

Margaret Turlington, coordinator of the fund, spoke about the accomplishments of the program and teachers, who she said go the extra mile for children.

“We truly, through the Simple Gifts fund, appreciate what you do for students,” Turlington said. “Every day, not only during the school year, but in the summer too.”

There’s several opportunities to receive Love of Learning grants throughout the year. The average max is about $3,000 for educators and about more than $2,000 for schools in the district.

Through Love of Learning, students throughout Sampson County were able to enjoy field trips, music clinics and visits from people like youth author Alan Gratz. Students also benefited from trips.

Warren also recognized educators who received grants through Operation Round Up through South River EMC. The voluntary program allows customers to round up electric bills to the next whole dollar. The extra funds goes towards community projects. Two Sampson County teachers earned awards which totaled $10,000.

The Donnie M. Royal Foundation donated $10,000 to Salemburg Elementary School’s improvement team for laptops and other technology needs. This year marked the second time the school in Salemburg received a check from the organization. The purpose of the Royal Foundation is to help organizations and education efforts and is named after a doctor who practiced medicine for more than 60 years.

Many teachers throughout Sampson County were recognized for grant seeking efforts. Pictured are Bessie Locus, Chelsie Conn, Amy Kelly and Chris Pittman.
https://www.clintonnc.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/web1_Grants.jpgMany teachers throughout Sampson County were recognized for grant seeking efforts. Pictured are Bessie Locus, Chelsie Conn, Amy Kelly and Chris Pittman.

By Chase Jordan

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