Programs
At Maize Education Foundation, we are dedicated to enriching the educational experience for both students and educators across our district. Our diverse range of programs is designed to inspire innovation, celebrate excellence, and support academic achievement. From Challenge Grants for educators to Student Enrichment Grants, we are committed to fostering growth at every level. Additionally, we offer first-year teacher stipends to support new educators, honor outstanding contributions by supporting the district's Celebrating Excellence Awards, and provide scholarships to help students achieve their higher education dreams. Together, we help students succeed.
For Students
Student Enrichment Grants
It is our belief that supporting students in defining and pursuing their individual versions of success is one of the greatest legacies we can leave for our community and one of the most important things we can do to build a better future. Students in grades 7 through 12 can apply for a grant of up to $500 to help cover the costs associated with certain educational activities and experiences such as leadership seminars, educational camps, community service projects, and more.
Scholarships
The Maize Education Foundation continues the support of graduating Maize USD 266 students by offering scholarships. Through private funding and public contributions, the Foundation currently maintains three funds in support of these scholarships.
- Legacy Scholarship
- Shelley Woodard Poynter Memorial Scholarship
- Kyle Thornburg Memorial Scholarship
For Educators
Challenge Grants
Any employee of the Maize USD 266 school district may apply for a Challenge Grant to benefit your classroom, department, building, or the district as a whole. This includes teachers, principals, counselors, paraeducators, bus drivers, food service, maintenance, custodial workers, and all other district staff! Apply as an individual or as a team!
Celebrating excellence awards
Each year, district and building leaders honor individuals throughout the district for the amazing work they do for the district and its mission of connecting, learning, and leading. Learn how the Maize Education Foundation supports this initiative!
first-year teachers
To help ease the transition into their first year of teaching, the Foundation provides each first-year teacher with a $100 stipend to help make their classroom special. So, when they open the door for the first time and welcome their first class of students, they can make it a little more special on their first day as a teacher.
payroll donations
Every Maize employee has an opportunity to enroll in the Payroll Donation Program. You choose the amount, and it will be withheld from your payroll check each pay period and donated directly to the Maize Education Foundation. If every Maize employee donated just $1 per pay period, that would total more than $38,000 annually to reinvest in the district.