These programs extend the resources of the school districts, enabling educators to go beyond standard classroom experiences.

Through private funding, the Foundation seeks to stimulate the imagination of educators to conceive programs, which would not otherwise be affordable.

• "It takes an entire village to educate a child. " African proverb

The recipients of these funds are educators whose creative and unique ideas are launched into model programs that can be adapted for use throughout the districts. These projects provide additional learning, experiences for students that are not typically funded by normal tax support.

An endowment fund of $500,000 will provide interest earnings to fund grants every year. During its first three years, BEYOND THE BOOKS EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION raised more than $300,000.

The on-going financial commitment of contributors to the Foundation can enable our children and our community to become the best they can be.

• "We must view young people not as empty bottles to be filled, but as candles to be lit." Robert H. Shaffer

WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR AWARDING GRANTS?

Each spring, educators in both District 87 and Unit 5 are invited to submit a written grant application which describes the project, the method of implementation, a cost estimate and the value of the program to students.

Applications are reviewed by the BEYOND THE BOOKS EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION Board of Directors and funding is awarded according to established criteria. The selected programs are implemented in the following school year.

• "Parents cannot leave a better legacy to the world than well-educated children." Unknown

The objective of BEYOND THE BOOKS EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION is to fund innovative programs, which are not currently offered, that enhance educational experiences.

The Foundation is committed to educational excellence in the core academic areas, the arts and humanities, sciences, and technology. All age levels and areas of study are considered.

BEYOND THE BOOKS EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION is a not-for-profit Illinois corporation. Its purpose is to provide a long-term, self-sustaining financial base that will annually fund innovative academic programs in Unit 5 and District 87 public schools.

All work is accomplished by volunteers who serve without salary as the board of directors. Annually the board elects officers and directors, reviews policies and practices, evaluates the funded projects and conducts a financial audit.

• "Education will never become as expensive as ignorance." Unknown

The Foundation is a group of private citizens, and is not part of either school district. There is, of course, good communication and cooperation between the BEYOND THE BOOKS EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION and both school districts. The Boards of Education of District 87 and Unit 5 encouraged the formation of the Foundation and strongly support its efforts...a partnership for innovation in public education.

• "Knowledge has to be improved, challenged, and increased constantly or it vanished." Peter Drucker
• "A child is a person who is going to carry on what you have started." Abraham Lincoln

Apply for "The Education Card," a MasterCard credit card benefiting education in the public schools. A percentage of your purchases is returned to the BEYOND THE BOOKS EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION.

For more information or an application, contact the local First of America office, 823-3000 or call (800) 322-7070.

• Your check or annual pledge is appreciated.
• Make an Honor donation to commemorate a special person (child, teacher, parent) or occasion (birthday, anniversary, graduation, retirement).
• Remember someone with a Memorial gift.
• Name the Foundation in a bequest, real estate gift or as a beneficiary on an insurance policy. Consult your attorney if you need assistance.

Make checks payable to: