News & Events

East Lansing Educational Foundation Surpasses $986,000 in Grants to Teachers and Students

East Lansing, MI – The East Lansing Educational Foundation (ELEF) is proud to announce the awarding of over $63,098 in grants to East Lansing Public Schools (ELPS) teachers for the 2024-2025 academic year. These 42 grants will enhance educational opportunities for nearly all ELPS students, funding initiatives such as high school attendance support and a unique collaboration between 5th graders and renowned poet Baba Bomani. This year’s grants bring ELEF’s total funding since its inception to more than $986,000.

“We are incredibly grateful for the community’s ongoing commitment to our schools,” said Dori Leyko, ELPS Superintendent. “The Foundation’s support allows our teachers to bring innovative, engaging experiences to their classrooms, enriching the educational journey for all students.”

On November 22, ELEF celebrated its grant recipients by visiting classrooms to present funds. Highlights included:

Carla Larzelere, who is spearheading a project to bring Baba Bomani to all ELPS 5th grade students, supported by over $8,000 in funding.
Nichole Spear’s students at Whitehills Elementary, who will benefit from a $700 grant to enhance STEAM stations during music class.

ELEF board members visited the East Lansing School Board meeting on December 9 to present this year’s funds to the district.

“ELEF strives to foster excellence and innovation in education by supporting our teachers and students,” said Julie Thomas-Beckett, President of ELEF. “This year’s grants highlight the creativity and dedication of ELPS educators, who consistently endeavor to provide meaningful learning opportunities.”

Each year, ELPS teachers apply for both individual and collaborative grants to fund enrichment projects that address diverse student needs. Many grants assist early-career teachers in acquiring materials essential for their professional growth and classroom success. For a complete list of the grants, go to: www.elef.us/grant-program

ELEF’s impactful work is made possible by the generosity of 19 endowed gifts and dozens of annual donors, who contribute an average of $400 each. To make a donation toward future ELEF grants, go to: www.elef.us/donations

East Lansing Educational Foundation Awards Two Students Weng Scholarship

East Lansing, MI – The East Lansing Educational Foundation (ELEF) is proud to announce the recipients of the prestigious Will Weng and Damaras Weng Rogers Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship, generously sponsored by Bob and Judy Posey, is awarded to exceptional students who exemplify the values and commitment to education embodied by Will Weng and Damaras Weng Rogers. Both Will and Demaras are graduates of Columbia University. Will became puzzle editor for the New York Times. Damaras taught third grade and was the head of physical education for the Lansing School District.

Trojan Bowling Day

Join us Sunday March 2nd, 2025 to bowl t Pins and Pints. Proceeds will go to ELEF's general fund - creating more opportunities for grants in the years to come!