The Eagle Foundation Inc. is inviting local businesses, families and community members to help support student scholarships, teacher appreciation events and classroom mini-grants throughout the Southern Boone County R-I School District during the 2026-27 school year.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Eagle Foundation works in partnership with the school district to provide additional resources, recognize excellence and support educational opportunities that extend beyond the district's regular operating budget. Donations to the foundation are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
"Our goal is to provide opportunities that make a meaningful difference for Southern Boone students and teachers," said Michelle Benke, Eagle Foundation president. "Whether it's helping a graduating senior continue their education, recognizing our dedicated teachers or providing resources for innovative classroom projects, every donation helps us make a positive impact across our schools."
For the 2026-27 school year, the foundation has set a fundraising goal of $10,000 to support three key initiatives:
Student scholarships: Helping graduating Southern Boone seniors pursue their educational goals after high school.
Teacher appreciation events: Recognizing and celebrating educators for their dedication and the positive impact they make on students.
Teacher mini-grants: Providing $200 grants to help teachers bring creative ideas and innovative learning opportunities into their classrooms.
The foundation has already demonstrated the impact of these efforts. In April 2026, the Eagle Foundation awarded $2,000 in teacher mini-grants to support classroom projects and educational opportunities throughout the district.
In addition to supporting classroom innovation, the foundation will help provide funding for snacks and drinks for Southern Boone teachers and staff throughout the school year. This initiative is one way the foundation hopes to show appreciation for the hard work and dedication of district employees.
How to Support the Eagle Foundation
Individuals, families and businesses can make contributions to the Eagle Foundation through several convenient options:
Online: Make a secure donation through PayPal by visiting www.sbschools.us/foundation.
Venmo: Donate at https://venmo.com/u/EagleFoundationInc or search for Eagle Foundation Inc. in the Venmo app.
By check: Checks payable to Eagle Foundation may be dropped off at the Southern Boone Central Office or mailed to:
Eagle Foundation
5275 W. Red Tail Drive
Ashland, MO 65010
Community members can learn more about the Eagle Foundation and its fundraising efforts or make a contribution by visiting www.sbschools.us/foundation.
"We know how much time, energy and dedication our teachers and staff put into supporting students every day," Benke said. "Whether we're helping fund a classroom project or providing a small treat during the school day, we want our employees to know their efforts are valued and appreciated."
Southern Boone Superintendent Tim Roth emphasized the importance of the foundation's partnership with the school district and the additional opportunities it provides for students and staff.
"The Eagle Foundation is an important partner in supporting the work happening in our classrooms and schools every day," Roth said. "The $2,000 in teacher mini-grants awarded last spring is a great example of how the foundation makes a direct impact in our schools. We also appreciate their efforts to recognize our teachers and staff and show them how much their work means to our district and community."
The foundation's mission is to turn ideas into action by providing extraordinary educational opportunities for students and staff through community partnerships and financial support.
Foundation Vice President Kip Batye said the foundation's success depends on the continued involvement of local businesses, families and community members.
"Southern Boone is fortunate to have a community that values education and understands the importance of supporting our schools," Batye said. "Every contribution, regardless of the amount, helps us work toward our fundraising goal and provide additional opportunities for students and teachers. When we invest in our schools, we're investing in the future of our community."
"The generosity of our community allows us to continue supporting students and teachers in meaningful ways," Benke said. "We are grateful for everyone who contributes to the Eagle Foundation and helps us strengthen educational opportunities throughout the Southern Boone School District."
About the Eagle Foundation
The Eagle Foundation Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting public education in the Southern Boone County R-I School District. Through fundraising, community partnerships and charitable contributions, the foundation provides student scholarships, teacher appreciation opportunities and classroom mini-grants that enhance educational experiences for Southern Boone students and staff.