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Curiosity Grants

The Vicksburg Community Schools Foundation has a program that allows students from any grade level, to apply for a special grant that would support innovation. Grants generally range in amounts from $50.00 to $250.00. It is possible however, that projects may be considered for a larger amount, if funding allows.

Sunset Lake Elementary students enjoying the "Science on the Go!" presentation made possible by a Curiosity Grant requested by Brannon Leitch

2009-10 Grant Recipients

The Board approved four student grants, one middle school, one high school and two elementary Curiosity Grants for a total of $1,022.

Marisa Hudson (Grade 7) at Vicksburg Middle School - $45 awarded in 2009 for Marisa to attend Leadership Training at the Adventure Centre. This training helps develop the self-confidence needed to become a great role model and leader. Adult Mentor: Pam Garrett, VMS Teacher .

Savannah Gildea (Grade 2) at Sunset Lake Elementary - $370 awarded in 2010 for a book page flipper. Adult Mentor: Mary Hess-Quinones, Sunset Lake Teacher.

Indian Lake Strings Students (Grades 3 & 4) - $250 awarded in 2010 for bus transportation to Tobey for five Indian Lake Students. Adult Mentor: Betsy Craig, TY/IL Teacher.

Jessica Klok and Kyle Poenicke (Grade 10) - $357 awarded in 2010 for recycling totes and sponsor stickers. This grant will help with the Environmental Club’s paper recycling project at VHS. Adult Mentor: Liz Ratashak, HS Teacher.

Grant Guidelines

Grants must be for educational purposes and we encourage creativity.

High School/Middle School group applicants must submit individual grant applications and appoint one student as the contact who will also submit a summary giving details of total funds requested, etc. Funding for trips, club trips, or competitions submitted by teachers/mentors will not be considered, with the exception of elementary age applicants who will be permitted to have the teacher/mentor as a lead in their project and the application process. Funding to attend camps will not be considered.

Applicants may apply each year, however, previous year recipients may receive lower priority in the allocation of grant funds. (The VCSF reserves the right to fund any special request throughout the year.)

If the project is not completed, award monies will be returned to the VCSF. Equipment purchases entirely with grant monies will become the property of Vicksburg Community Schools. Partially funded equipment purchases will be discussed with the applicant prior to grant award for clarification of ownership. Instructions will be given on how to secure the release of the grant award depending upon the project proposed.

How to Apply

Complete instructions on the application process are included with each application form. To download a PDF version of the Curiosity Grant Application, click here.

You can also stop by the Foundation office located at the Assistant Superintendent's office, in the Administration Building.

If you have any questions, please call Amy Manchester @ (269) 321-1006.