The announced this week that it has raised over $438,000 to help update its science curriculum with new materials for the 2011-2012 school year.
Funds were raised with the help of the Issaquah Schools Foundation, various PTSAs and local chambers of commerce. The district has promised an additional $700,000 in matching funds.
“We’ve been thrilled with the success of the campaign,” said Robin Callahan, Executive Director of the Issaquah Schools Foundation.
Facing budget cuts, the district needed additional funding to purchase new science curriculum materials, such as books, learning aids, and instructional materials for teachers, in order to meet the state’s new learning standards in science.
The district said that the funds raised will allow for the purchase of the necessary materials and training for its teachers. The training will begin in August.
“We cannot thank our community members enough for their generosity,” the district said in a statement issued on Tuesday.
Callahan stressed the importance of high quality science education in the district, saying that developing a strong foundation in science in elementary school leads to better grades in middle school and beyond and better prepares students for the high-tech workplace of the future.
“We definitely have an interest in making sure our students have a strong foundation,” Callahan said.
