The Impact of Strong Schools

Quality of Education

A great education not only develops core competencies but also the social skills of our children. It should encourage them to think independently and in an inquiring and knowledgeable manner. Logical thinking, initiative, and the ability to problem solve in today's ever-changing world are the skills Fenton students will need to succeed now and in the future.

International Baccalaureate (IB) director general, Jeffery Beard, presented at Harvard Business School. When asked about the global needs for education, Beard commented, "A good education will result in both enlightenment and access to opportunity, but the focus should be in the understanding, comprehending, and the development of critical thinking skills, all of which are qualities we promote in the IB programs."

School Independence & Stability

The Fenton Area Public School Education Foundation (FAPSEF) gives us, as a community, an opportunity to take our children's quality of education into our own hands. Public and private school systems across the country are struggling with adequate funding. Many believe that Fenton's school system is completely dependent upon the State of Michigan supplying funding, addressing equity between districts, and improving economic conditions to ensure our schools' livelihood. While a majority of financial support is from state-assisted means, this does not make our schools' success reliant on what is allocated to our district. With private contributions to the FAPSEF, many costs that can not be covered with bonds or other traditional school funding, will be supported by the foundation. Many flourishing educational institutions (primary, secondary, and post-secondary) have established large endowments that support local school programs. Fenton schools and its students will benefit from the best of both worlds, public school funding, and private contributions. Solid economic funding of our schools will help to establish permanence and long-term viability.

The Greater Good

Teachers, administrators, and community leaders have already embraced the concepts that International Baccalaureate encompasses. Fenton students, teachers, businesses, families, and citizens will benefit from the positive changes taking place within the Fenton Public Schools. As Fenton grows and prospers, other areas around us will also benefit. Strong healthy communities naturally strengthen the surrounding communities as well. As the Fenton Public Schools become fully authorized with the IB Organization, we will have the potential to become a regional program within their schools. We will be an example of how a community can make a difference through their own participation, volunteerism, and private funding. Through our actions, we envision better community, state and world.

Learn about donating or read more...