Special Maroon & Gray Issue
2021 Maroon & Gray Beneficiary:
The Mardi Lowry McDonough ’87 Student Opportunity Fund and Grant Program

In 2016, the SCASD Education Foundation established the Student Opportunity Fund to give donors an opportunity to make a direct impact on students by providing financial resources to teachers and staff through grant awards. In June 2020, in partnership with her family, the Education Foundation honored Mardi Lowry McDonough ’87, longtime educator in the district, and parent to two State High graduates, by permanently adding her name to the fund.

The fund and grant program has been chosen as the beneficiary of funds raised from now through Maroon & Gray Day on May 1, in lieu of an in-person banquet.

 

Why is The Mardi Lowry McDonough ’87 Student Opportunity Fund and Grant Program so important now?

“The community has been incredibly generous giving to the Education Foundation in direct support of students and families in the district during the COVID-19 pandemic, which also impacted the district budget and the day-to-day instructional and learning needs of teachers and students,” said Board President Chris Buchignani. “To continue to advance our mission, it’s critical that funds are available for teachers and staff to enhance their classrooms, curriculum and activities in the new school year and beyond.”

 

How does the program impact teachers and students?

Past grants have awarded nearly $70,000 and have funded a broad array of teacher and staff innovation. Here are just a few examples:

• New equipment like 3-D printers and GoPro Learning Labs
• Books for classroom libraries and schoolwide reading programs
• Extracurricular opportunities like the Unified Bocce Team
• Basic needs items offered through a “Student Support Closet”
• Sensory Stations and a Traverse Climbing Wall
• A STEAM Woodworking Maker Cart

“Since the grant program launched, teachers, staff and coaches have accomplished worthwhile projects and demonstrated clear benefit to students,” said Superintendent Dr. Bob O’Donnell. “This focus on funding creative experiences for students that go beyond our annual budget has driven innovation and made a difference.”

“In recognition of her own experience, the experiences of her daughters Colleen and Grace, her exemplary career as a teacher, and her honorable service to teachers and the community, the Education Foundation board is privileged to administer this fund in Mardi’s honor,” said Chris. “We are delighted that we were able to work with Mardi and her family on this opportunity to continue to impact our students, teachers and the entire State College community.”

To help fill the gap left by the cancellation of the 2021 Maroon & Gray Society Banquet, to assure that funds are available for innovative student experiences, and to honor an exceptional State High alumna and educator, please consider a gift between now and April 30.

Visit scasdfoundation.org/donate and select The Mardi Lowry McDonough ’87 Student Opportunity Fund & Grant Program from the campaign dropdown menu.