The Solution
The Elkhart Education Foundation supports excellence in education through the development and implementation of innovative academic programs and provides supplemental funds for character-building extracurricular activities.

EEF, a 501(c)(3) organization, manages and expends funds received from donations that support the mission, vision and goals of the Elkhart Community Schools. EEF provides funds for innovative teaching practices, education programs and activities – Athletics, Arts, Academic Clubs/Service Organizations – that are outside of the parameters of the traditional operating budget for Elkhart Community Schools. The funds provided by EEF will be used to facilitate student achievement and skill development, to recognize and encourage staff excellence, and to cultivate community involvement from individuals, businesses and civic organizations.
Our Impact
Innovative Teaching Grants
Extracurricular Grants
High-Impact Projects
“The Elkhart Education Foundation has been ‘walking the walk’ since day one. In under two years, they’ve hosted several community events, initiated and fulfilled three grant cycles, and and helped bring community leaders together on many occasions to focus on the needs of students and educators.
They’ve also brought a bit of fun and encouragement to our building - as a staff we’ve started to come together more to take photos and participate in EEF related challenges.”
Kurt WeimerResearch Proves It
The Arts
- Sustained learning in music and theater correlates with higher achievement in both math and reading.
- Multiple studies prove that extracurricular art activities help prevent high-risk students from dropping out.
- Students who take 4 years of arts and music classes during high school score about 100 points better on their SATs.
Better Choices
Participation in student activities…
- Reduces drop-out rates
- Increases standardized test scores
- Boosts GPAs
- Promotes college & career success
- Develops social & emotional skills
- Leads students to make better choices
Test Scores
Impact of non-athletic after school activities on standardized test scores:
8th Grade
- Reading: +2.2%
- Math: +2.9%
10th Grade
- Reading: +4.0%
- Math: +5.7%
Athletics
- Students who play sports are on time to school more often and absent less frequently
- Student athletes are 4x more likely to attend college
- Student athletes are better at managing emotions, resolving conflicts, and resisting peer pressure
Source: Alliance for Student Activities | ASA Research | Infographics