Who We Are: The Foundation for MERS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization formed in the 2009-2010 school year by dedicated parents and community members to enhance the education of the children in our district. We are managed by a board of volunteer trustees and operate independently of the Board of Education and Parent Teacher Organizations. We strive to collaborate with these organizations as well as district administrators and teachers to bring innovative educational resources to our schools that would not be possible through district funds alone. What We Do: Since our inception, The Foundation for MERS has funded over $700,000 in grants to K-8 schools in our district. We have provided state-of-the-art technology, creative educational programs and materials, teacher enrichment, and support of the arts to enrich each child’s learning environment. The Foundation for MERS raises funds through special events, individual and family donations, community business sponsorships, and grants from private foundations that support education. We run two grant cycles per year where teachers and administrators have the opportunity to request funds for resources they feel would make a substantial, positive educational impact. These funds could be utilized for district-wide programs, school and/or classroom materials, or professional enrichment. Our Mission: To ensure the highest level of educational innovation supporting students, faculty, and staff with community involvement in a partnership of lifetime learning. Our Vision: That each of our schools has the educational resources necessary for its students to reach their highest learning potential.