Eugene Education Foundation awards $200,166 in enrichment grants to Eugene School District 4J

The Eugene Education Foundation (EEF) has awarded $200,166 in grant funding to support 67 educational projects across Eugene School District 4J for the 2025-26 academic year. EEF made the check presentation at the 4J Back to School Kickoff held at South Eugene High School on Aug. 27.

The grants will fund initiatives from elementary through high school, including district-wide programs that prioritize equity and inclusion for diverse learners, English language learners, and underrepresented students.

EEF serves as the community fundraising arm for the 4J school district, providing additional resources to expand educational opportunities beyond what the standard school budget allows.  Since 1993, EEF has raised and donated more than $4 million to support innovative classroom programs, educational technology, and student services that would otherwise remain unfunded. The foundation connects local businesses, families, and community members directly with classroom needs through its annual grant cycle.

Examples of this year’s funded projects include:

  • STEM Innovation: HumaniTech’s “Move Without Limits” pairs high school engineering students with 4J teachers and physical therapists to design and modify electric play vehicles for preschool and elementary aged students in life skills programs using 3D printing and programming.
  • Arts and Culture: Community murals, tribal basketry projects connecting students to cultural traditions, Ballet Folklorico programs, music education, and “Healing Through Art” initiatives that empower students through creative expression.
  • Literacy and Learning: Multi-sensory articulation support, traveling backpack libraries, bilingual library collections, and professional development for educators working with diverse student populations.
  • Student Wellness: Mental health and social-emotional learning programs, classroom calming corner kits, and standing frames that enhance mobility and classroom participation.
  • Expanded Opportunities: Field trips including university visits, and real-world learning experiences.

“These grants showcase what’s possible when our community rallies behind our students,” says Laura Brown, Executive Director of the Eugene Education Foundation. “Whether it’s launching a new Ballet Folklorico program or purchasing standing frames that transform a student’s entire school experience, we’re funding projects that don’t just enhance education – they change lives.”

More than 90 applications were submitted for review by EEF’s grants committee, chaired by community leader Sonya Carlson. Each year, committee members evaluate all proposals through a blind scoring process with identifying information redacted, including school names and applicant details. The evaluation incorporates 4J’s “needs index” to prioritize higher-need schools across the district.