Random Acts of Kindness bring smiles to faces of students
For nearly 30 years, schools have accessed Random Acts of Kindness (RAK) funds provided by the La Crosse Public Education Foundation (LPEF). Each school has an RAK account: when they see a need, they write a check. RAK funds meet student needs that make it difficult for them to get to school, to be ready to learn, and to participate fully.
Teachers and staff know students best and understand their needs. They are empowered to write a check in the moment, without the family having to complete forms and interviews; allowing the student to focus on school.
About half of RAK funds goes to basic needs like clothing, bedding, laundry, health exams, and hygiene supplies. About a quarter goes toward transportation to school, and another quarter for fees so that students can participate in external learning experiences, such as field trips. Examples of uses include:
- Field trip costs
- Bus passes
- School supplies
- Shoes
- Snow boots/winter clothing
- Reading glasses
- Lab fees
- Instrument rental/sheet music
- College entrance exam fees
- Graduation caps and gowns
- Alarm clocks
- Taxi service to transport ill students/parents to conferences
- Clothing for musical/theater performances
In the 2023-2024 school year, LPEF distributed over $50,000 in Random Acts of Kindness support to district schools. Spending has grown rapidly in recent years as our schools have worked to address growing needs.
