The La Crosse Public Education Foundation is committed to supporting Teacher Excellence through staff development grants, classroom grants, academic excellence awards and other programs.

Former Superintendent of Schools Richard Swantz

Each year, teachers are encouraged to apply for funding to support teacher training. The Richard Swantz Endowment Fund, named for the former superintendent of schools and one of LPEF’s founders, fosters teacher excellence by funding a grant each year in the area of staff development. Additional funds also may be available, depending on need.

For more information and the current application form (using the same form as our general grants), go to our Grant Applications page.

In addition to funding grants chosen through our annual programs, LPEF has been a consistent supporter of other staff development programs in the District, including providing major funding for the implementation of the AVID college-readiness program at Central and Logan high schools. LPEF also has committed to helping with fundraising for the District’s multi-year Equity Initiative, which is providing training to help staff work with students to address systemic inequities and improve academic achievement for all students, regardless of background. LPEF also has provided significant grant funding for staff working to address trauma and other adverse childhood experiences.