This week, in honor of National Teacher Appreciation Week and to celebrate the hard work and important contributions of Wisconsin teachers this school year, Herb Kohl Philanthropies funded all Wisconsin project requests (one per teacher) on the education crowdfunding site DonorsChoose.org.
A total of 578 projects worth $425,000 were just flash-funded across the state. This donation was made to thank teachers for making a positive impact on the lives of Wisconsin children.
“What teachers do every day for students inspires me to provide this support,” said Herb Kohl. “These classroom projects are just another example of how teachers go the extra mile to provide for their students. While their efforts are priceless, the materials cost money – money I know teachers all too often spend out of their own pockets,” Kohl added.
In addition, starting Tuesday, May 8, 2018, Herb Kohl Philanthropies will provide further support for Wisconsin classrooms in the form of a 2-to-1 special match offer to support social-emotional learning projects. Available research and teachers on the frontlines acknowledge the need to create stronger and more supportive communities for their students. This matching grant will help leverage a $75,000 commitment into an additional $112,500 worth of direct classroom supplies and educational materials for teachers requesting mental and emotional wellness resources that help students become happy and connected members of their communities.
“We’re so grateful for the chance to honor Wisconsin teachers today with this surprise from Herb Kohl Philanthropies,” said Charles Best, founder of DonorsChoose.org. “Teachers go above and beyond for their students every day, and this support will help them bring new learning opportunities to classrooms across the state.” As the benefits of social- emotional learning (SEL) have become clear, school communities recognize children need help building skills beyond academic knowledge. Social-emotional development helps students become more focused and ready to learn. Through various techniques, students are able to develop self-awareness and the self-management skills they need in order to become more socially aware, improve relationship skills and make responsible decisions.
“Social and emotional learning practices help educators reach all kids and build school environments that keep kids safe, healthy, supported, and encouraged,” said State Superintendent Tony Evers. “Through work with my Equity Council and staff at the department, we are searching for new and exciting ways to promote these skills. I want to thank Herb Kohl for his recognition of those efforts and his unwavering commitment to our educators and schools.”
This match offer invites teachers to request materials and experiences they need to help foster social-emotional wellness in their classrooms, schools, and communities. For every dollar of support for these projects, Herb Kohl Philanthropies will match them 2-to-1 until the offer expires.
On Monday May 7, 2018 Herb Kohl posted a “You just got funded” message that went to 578 teachers in 359 schools impacting 51,739 students, letting teachers know how much he values their dedication, innovation and inspiration.
