IPSF program lets you make a donation in honor of your favorite IUSD staff member

IUSD’s three Teachers of the Year may have been revealed this week, but perhaps you have a favorite staff member of your own you’d like to recognize.

The Irvine Public Schools Foundation is giving you an opportunity to do just that through its Parents Appreciating Teachers and Staff program, or PATS. From now until March 2, parents and community members can make a small donation in honor of their favorite teacher or staff member, and the proceeds will raise money for innovative teaching strategies throughout the district. Contributions will specifically be pooled to fund IPSF’s Innovative Teaching Award Program, which offers instructional grants to IUSD teachers who want to incorporate state-of-the-art technology or pilot new initiatives in the classroom. Last year, donations helped raise more than $32,000 for ITAP grants, which were awarded to 22 teachers at 17 schools. Meanwhile, staff members recognized through the PATS program will receive a personalized certificate of recognition along with a small gift, both of which will be delivered during Teacher Appreciation Week in May. For more information, or to download a PATS form before the March 2 deadline, visit www.ipsf.net.