September 12, 2006 > Largest ever grant to Hayward schools

by Renee Buck

Superintendent Dale Vigil announced the award of a $1.3 million grant to Tennyson area schools from the S. H. Cowell Foundation of San Francisco. This is the foundation's largest award ever to schools.

The three year grant will benefit students at Shepherd and Tyrell elementary schools; Cesar Chavez middle school and Tennyson high school. With funding for partner teachers, professional development, and an assessment specialist, the aim of the grant is to accelerate student achievement in English language skills.

Christine Quinn, Associate Superintendent of Educational Services states, "We are extremely excited for our students and teachers in the Tennyson area learning community. This grant will provide them with the additional support needed to increase student learning and achievement."

The S. H. Cowell Foundation was established in 1956 through a bequest from Samuel Henry Cowell. The foundation's goal is to improve the quality of life of children living in poverty in northern California by making grants that support and strengthen their families and their neighborhoods. Since its inception, the foundation's board of Directors has approved 3,539 grants totaling $196,953,904 to non-profit groups and K - 12 schools.