Grant Information
Fraser Education Foundation Grant Program
The Fraser Education Foundation offers mini-grants and single grants to any staff member in the Fraser Public Schools district.
The grant program supports funding for all levels to enhance student enrichment, teacher creativity and community involvement through programs that go beyond the scope of normally-funded school budgets.
Since its inception in 1987, the FEF has awarded more than $300,000 in grants.
Mini-Grants and Single Grants
Mini-Grants (up to $1,000) and Single Grants ($2,000-3,000) are available each year. Requests must include a creative idea or innovative approach for enhancing instructional and learning experiences for all students or that would provide support for students in the learning process. Applicants must explain how the grant will be used to include every student, regardless of ethnicity or gender, and the specific benefits from the project. Non-allowable costs include staff stipends, substitute salaries, conference attendance, college or university course work, or other professional development activities.
The 2025-26 Grant Application window will open in September 2025. Awards will be announced in November 2025.
2024-25 Grant Recipients
The foundation received a $100,000 gift from the estate of Delia Martin. Mrs. Martin was a longtime Foundation member, and founder of El Charro Mexican Restaurant. Half of the gift is to be used for the grant program, and the other half will be used for capital improvements in the performing arts department. Two grants were funded this year through the Delia Martin Gift.
Mini Grants
Dan Gallina, Fraser High School, $1,000
Mock Trial Club - The Mock Trial Club is a structured program, run with guidance from the Michigan Center for Civic Education. It aims to provide students with a simulated court experience after analyzing a complex legal fact pattern. The focal point of this program is a realistic mock trial held at the Macomb County Circuit Court, presided over by esteemed area judges, lawyers, and legal professionals.
Jim Socha, Fraser High School, $1,000
McMahon Thrift Store - The purpose of the McMahon Thrift Store is to help students in need have adequate clothing throughout the school year. This store gives all students an outlet to increase their wardrobe and help not only their self-esteem. Mr. Connor McMahon found joy in giving his time and helping his students. The money from the grant will be used for store needs, the wish box, and other specialty items for students.
Vicky Zoldos, Fraser High School, $354.75
Día de Los Muertos School Display - Students in my classes have expressed an interest in delving deeper into the meaning of "Dia de los Muertos" (Day of the Dead). We propose to set up an ofrenda in the media center to share the culture behind this Latin American holiday. My students will display traditional items that represent earth, wind, water, and fire and will create informational materials for those who visit the ofrenda.
Amy Olenzek, Fraser High School, $360
Francophone Music on the Harmonica - Last year, two volunteer musical guests came to my French classroom and taught my students to sing French and francophone songs and to play them on the harmonica. The grant will be used to offer a more advanced class for students who did it last year, as well as introducing this year’s students to music. Each student will receive a harmonica to use, and the grant will allow two guests to come to FHS and teach the class.
Amelia Ciaramitaro, Disney Elementary, $1,492.67, Delia Martin Gift
Sensory Room – The grant will be used to create a sensory room for students at Disney Elementary School. Having a sensory space in a school environment is an evidence-based strategy that promotes a positive school culture and supports student's overall health and well-being.
Single Grant
Amanda Gottardo, Richards Middle School, $2005.70, Delia Martin Gift
Shining Star Artist – The grant will be used to purchase several large bulletin boards and glass showcases to be able to display student artwork. At Richards, there are limited places to display student work. Having student work on display not only boosts a student's enthusiasm in the classroom but encourages others to take art classes.