2026 Colon Educational Mini Grants
The Branch County Community Foundation (BCCF) Awards More Than $11,800 to Support Student Learning and Enrichment at Colon Community Schools.
In June 2026, BCCF accepted grant applications through the Nola & George Cummings Family Foundation Fund, which was established to support academic enrichment and enhancement opportunities for Colon Community Schools students. The funds give special consideration to projects involving the arts, drama, and special education.
BCCF is proud to announce that $11,839.17 was awarded during the June 2026 Colon Mini Grant Cycle, funding 12 innovative projects designed to enhance learning, encourage student success, and create new opportunities both inside and outside the classroom.
Learn more about the projects & programs below.
Supporting Student Learning
Several grants will provide students with engaging learning resources and classroom enhancements that support academic growth.
Sara Lindsey will establish a classroom library that fosters a love of reading. Students will receive personal book bins, and the collection will be expanded with high-interest titles tailored to current second-grade readers. The updated library will encourage independent reading, build stamina, and strengthen literacy skills.
Angela Vreeman will continue restructuring her classroom reading environment by purchasing shelving and book bins that support organization and accessibility. The improvements will help students focus on reading and build stronger reading habits.
Seth Falkenstein will create a more inclusive learning environment by purchasing sensory headphones, bounce bands, visual timers, reading highlight strips, fraction tiles, and other education tools. These resources will help students with a variety of learning needs stay engaged and succeed in the classroom.
Jeni Martinson will create a dedicated math corner where students can explore mathematical concepts beyond the standard curriculum. Hands-on learning tools such as calendars, clocks, number lines, and manipulatives will help students strengthen their understanding through interactive experiences.
Cody Richards will purchase a wide-format printer that allows teachers to create durable anchor charts and instructional posters. These visual learning tools will reinforce key concepts and across multiple subjects and provide long-term resources that can be used for years to come.
Encouraging Positive Student Experiences
Several funded projects focus on supporting student well-being, engagement, and positive behavior.
Nicole McClish will expand the Magi Bucks Incentive Program by providing snacks, beverages, prizes, gift cards, and recognition activities. The program celebrates acts of kindness, leadership, responsibility, academic effort, and citizenship while encouraging students to make positive choices.
Kylie Bowen will provide flexible seating options, including wobble stools and seat sacks, giving students comfortable learning spaces that support focus, movement, and organization throughout the school day.
Jill Braman will purchase prizes for the Magi Store, a program that rewards students for demonstrating the school’s four Sparks: respectful, responsible, safe, and positive. Students earn tickets throughout the year that can be exchanged for books, toys, and other incentives that recognize positive behavior.
Advancing STEM & Academic Success
Ann Vinson will purchase a new set of Texas Instrument calculators for use in biology, chemistry, physical science, and earth science classes, providing students with essential tools for scientific exploration and problem-solving.
Expanding Opportunities in the Arts & Activities
The arts continue to play an important role in student development, and several grants will help enhance these programs.
Mai Lan Vo will use grant funding to repair and replace band instruments as participation in the music program continues to grow. The project will support the band’s goal of earning a place at the MSBOA Band Festival while teaching students the importance of caring for their instruments.
Olivia Spindle will purchase a high-quality video camera for district wide use. The camera will make it possible to live-stream athletic events, drama club productions, band concerts, and other school activities. Instructors will also be able to use recordings to help students refine and develop their skills.
Supporting Student Athletics
Adam Bowen will purchase new discus equipment for the boys’ and girls’ track teams. With participation continuing the increase each year, the additional equipment will provide student-athletes with more opportunities to practice and compete successfully.
The Branch County Community Foundation is proud to partner with Colon Community Schools through the Nola & George Cummings Family Foundation Fund to help create enriching educational experiences and opportunities for students today and years to come.
