Grants, Engagement, And Why IPEI Matters

Last year, IPEI allocated more than $230,000 to enhance the education of ICSD students through Teacher Grants, Red and Gold Grants, Community Collaboration grants; its two affiliate organizations; awards from special funds; and the Kids Discover the Trail! program. This year, we received research-based proof that IPEI initiatives are making a big difference for Ithaca kids.

Data from reports submitted by teachers who were awarded grants during the 2012-13 school year showed that student engagement rose by an average of nearly 50% following IPEI grant-funded activities. And for students identified as "performing below grade level," the average increase in engagement was even higher, almost doubling after participation in IPEI-funded programs!

So just what is student engagement? It's an important component of learning that can be difficult to measure. IPEI asked teachers who funded programs and activities with IPEI grants to observe students' body language, verbal participation, physical participation, independence, and excitement before and after the grant-funded activities.

We at IPEI are overjoyed to have what we have always believed officially confirmed. We are excited to continue providing resources to the amazing teachers of ICSD. But we can't do that without your  engagement - so consider donating to IPEI today!

Support IPEI - because engagement matters!

A Message From IPEI's Executive Director

I just completed my second month as IPEI's first Executive Director.  It's been a wonderful two months, and I am energized by the enthusiasm of all who are impacted by our work.

On my first day at IPEI, I had the privilege of attending the opening convocation for all teachers of the Ithaca City School District as they started the new school year.  As I was introduced around, each teacher I met expressed warm gratitude for IPEI's support of their ideas and dreams for their students.  It was so heartwarming. 

At the ribbon cutting for IPEI's first office at the Just Be Cause Center this fall, I heard a story that truly signifies what IPEI is all about.  A former Ithaca City School District student walked into our office to thank IPEI for a grant that allowed him, while in his senior year at IHS, to explore his dream for a career in music, a dream that is now becoming reality. 

I was so impressed by this testimonial. IPEI strives to engage our students in learning that will lead to their future success, to make their dreams come true.  And IPEI's commitment to partnering with teachers and community organizations creates the strong roots from which these successes blossom.

IPEI makes a tremendous difference in the lives of our students, in the classrooms of our teachers, and in the strength of our community. I look forward to continuing IPEI's work with the schools and the community to keep the dreams alive.