Graphic calculators continue to remain a required standard for millions of middle and high school students across the country, and the cost can be a hardship for students. In fall 2020 Roxanne Paulsen & Carrie Johnson at Marion High School requested Marion School Foundation grant funding to purchase 150 TI-84 graphing calculators and charging stations to level the playing field for students taking math courses. Having these calculators available in class removes a cost barrier to students who are working on core math skills and helps students to be proficient with using calculators that are required for the ACT and the SAT as well as post-secondary course work
The Marion School Foundation provided funding for the purchase of 150 color graphing calculators and teacher packs for Marion High School math use. Due to this grant all students now have access to a calculator during instruction without sharing with another student or running to another classroom to borrow one from a teacher.
The Marion Foundation’s grant program provides teachers an opportunity to receive funding for projects that benefit students in the Marion Independent School District. Grants are made possible because of generous contributions the Foundation receives throughout the year from both businesses and individuals as well as a number of educational funds that are invested with the Foundation for long-term benefit.