In Mount Airy, 45 Teachers Get Grants To Buy School Supplies
By Cherri Gregg
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - A community fund that gives grants to teachers at cash-strapped schools in the Mount Airy section of Philadelphia has reached a milestone.
"The first year, we gave away $5,000 so we have grown significantly in that time."
Ken Weinstein owns the Trolley Car Diner in Northwest Philadelphia. He started the Mt. Airy/Chestnut Hill Teacher's Fund seven years ago when he learned teachers didn't have money to buy supplies. He started with a $5,000 donation. This year they topped out at more than $17,000, spread over 45 grants at eight schools.
"The grants ranged inside from $15o to $500 each."
And the teachers were creative, using the funding for tennis lessons, field trips and more.
"So I got what's called a DNA electro-phloresis container with mini-pipettes," Middle School science teacher Tim Foster said he used a $500 grant to create a DNA crime lab in his classroom.
"It really helps them understand and connect to the real world."
Teachers at Mount Airy schools can apply in the fall and, if approved, can submit receipts for reimbursement for supplies.