November 12, 2007

The Banff Community Foundation (BCF) is delighted to announce the creation of the Canadian Rockies Public School (CRPS) 2007 Fund. Established by Canadian Rockies Public School Trustees, the fund is a designated fund, for specific CRPS purposes: income generated by the fund will support research initiatives related to continuously improving classroom practice.

Chair of the Community Foundation, Fiona Mactaggart comments, "Here is another example of a group planning for the future by putting some money into an endowed fund. This fund will generate income for creative initiatives in public education today, and far into the future. And the foundation fully understands that finding money for public education presents an ongoing challenge."

Kim Bater, Chair of CRPS Board, explains, "When the trustees found out that there was an unexpected $37,000.00 of revenue, we asked 'how can this money best serve our students today and for the long term?' The real goal here is to benefit students. The trustees envision that this money can help teachers continue to stay abreast of innovations related to best classroom practice."

Bater adds, "This fund will give staff access to money that supports their proposals related to new initiatives. The trustees are happy that by endowing the money and encouraging others to donate, the fund will create a revenue stream for 'improving methodologies' in perpetuity." Bater said. "CRPS decided to partner with The Banff Community Foundation because of the foundation's vision, mission, and beliefs around building a better community. The foundation is already supporting our schools through their granting program."

"This is a win-win situation for both the community and public education." Mactaggart comments, "CRPS has faith in our organization and understands the importance of what we are doing. Both of our organizations share common objectives - to improve life in every way for residents of Banff National Park."

The fund will be held and administered by the foundation with proceeds going to CRPS. Anyone can donate by contacting Canadian Rockies Public Schools or The Banff Community Foundation. Charitable income tax receipts will be issued.

Contact: Lorraine Widmer-Carson, Executive Director
banffcf@shaw.ca
www.banffcommunityfoundation.org