2025/2026 Grant Updates

While we know that next school year may be the last thing on your mind, but for those of you who are already thinking ahead, we're happy to share important information regarding next year's KEF grants. 

Many of you have had the opportunity to meet Jenny Cloutier, our KEF Programs Manager, who started in July of 2024. Jenny brings a strong background in grant writing and management, and she's been working diligently to streamline and simplify our grant application process. Her goal is to ensure we gather the information needed for nonprofit reporting while also helping you access funding more easily and efficiently. 

Here’s what to expect for the 2025/26 school year:

1. Rolling Grant ApplicationsAll KEF grant applications will now be accepted on a rolling basis. Both the Great Opportunity Grant and the Micro Grant will be open for submission starting August 1, 2025.

2. Updated ApplicationsWe’ve made thoughtful updates to our applications to improve clarity and ease of use. You’ll find preview versions of the updated applications attached to this email. There's always a potential for additional changes, but these are likely the final versions you will see next school year. 

FAQs

Q: A colleague received funds for a cool project. Can I apply for funds for the same idea?

A: Yes! 

Q: My need isn't particularly innovative, but it can't exist within the current budget. Do you only give money to really creative and different ideas?

A: While supporting innovation is certainly a KEF goal, we also aim to support great ideas that simply cannot be funded within budget limitations. If you're worried your need won't fit our criteria - just ask! Email Jenny at programs@kalispelleducationfoundation.org and she'll be able to help. 

Q: Grant application? That sounds complicated. Is it hard to apply for a KEF grant? 

A: Here's what your colleagues have to say: - 

"You have made this process so easy for busy teachers to access." 

"I love how easy the process is and all the support from your staff." 

"...this was my first time applying and I found it very easy to complete the application."

We always aim for improvement, and update the process every year based on user feedback. Hopefully next year will be even better.

Q: How do you receive funding? 

A: Our community! Parents, businesses, local foundations and alumni, along with KEF board members, KPS board members and the KPS admin team all give personally in the spirit of supporting your great ideas! We are always seeking additional connections, so please feel free to share our website with your friends and family or put them in touch with Dorothy at dorothy@kalispelleducationfoundation.org. 

Thank you for the work you do every day for students. We’re proud to be your partner! Have a great summer!

2025 Elementary School Educator of the Year Beth Lincoln– Russell Elementary School

Beth Lincoln with her Pre-K students

In partnership with Kalispell Public Schools, Kalispell Education Foundation (KEF) was proud to surprise the 2025 Elementary School Educator of the Year recipient Beth Lincoln during a school-wide assembly on Monday.

Ms. Lincoln - who teaches pre-kindergarten and is affectionately known as “Ms. Beth” - was recognized for her extraordinary dedication, creativity, and impact as a teacher at Russell Elementary. She is celebrated by students, families, and colleagues for creating a nurturing and dynamic learning environment. Her classroom is not only a place for academic growth, but also one where students build confidence, kindness and a lifelong love of learning.

“I can't say enough good things about her,” one parent shared. “Ms. Beth has helped our child ease into the daily regimen of school through his pre-K year. He loves going to school and has learned so much. She does such a phenomenal job with these kiddos. I wish she could be his teacher throughout all the grades.”

Students in her class regularly affirm their own growth and effort with phrases like, “I am taking control of my own learning!” and “I am growing my brain and my heart!”, a testament to the positive mindset and confidence Ms. Lincoln cultivates in her classroom.

“It’s incredible how patient Beth is, and you can just tell how much she loves her job,” another parent said. “She goes above and beyond and she’s just one of the best teachers around.”

This year's award process was managed by the KEF student board, which includes Vincent Lam and Naomi Miller of Flathead High School, as well as Creed Wiley and Gabrielle Crozier of Glacier High School.

KEF is honored to recognize Ms. Lincoln as a shining example of excellence in education. Her passion, innovation, and genuine care for her students embody the very heart of what it means to be an outstanding educator.

Ms. Lincoln received a $1,000 grant for her classroom and a $250 personal award, generously provided by Stockman Bank.

2025 Middle School Educator of the Year Susie Trefney– Kalispell Middle School

A beloved 7th-grade math teacher, Susie Trefney has been recognized for her unwavering dedication to her students, her ability to make math both accessible and enjoyable, and the deep impact she has had on the lives of those she teaches.

Trefney’s students describe her as an inspiring, compassionate, and dedicated educator who fosters confidence and a love of learning in her classroom. Many shared how she has transformed their perspective on math and provided support beyond academics, making a lasting impact on their lives. One student wrote, "Before I met Mrs. Trefney, math made no sense to me. The moment I walked into her classroom, everything changed. She greeted me with a warm smile and a kind heart, and I finally felt like I could succeed."

Kalispell Middle School Principal Dallas Stuker praised Trefney’s contributions, stating, "We are very fortunate to have Susie Trefney as part of the KMS family. Susie is not only a great teacher, but also one of the best humans I have been fortunate enough to know. Susie teaches far more than mathematics in her classroom. She models and teaches students how to be kind, empathetic, collaborative, and helpful. Through her interactions, she has an innate ability to bring out the best in others. She is a positive influence and has so selflessly made sacrifices to support and help others. She is one of a kind, a great educator, and an awesome person! When you think of someone who 'takes care' of kids, you think of Susie Trefney."

With Trefney retiring at the end of this school year, this award serves as a fitting tribute to her years of service. The Kalispell Education Foundation congratulates her on this well-deserved recognition and thanks Stockman Bank for their support in celebrating outstanding educators in our community.