2026 Grants 

Continuation and Enhancement of the WEB Program

$24,837

Implemented in 2024 at East Aurora Middle School using an EAEF grant, Where Everyone Belongs (WEB) is a year-long transitional program that pairs incoming 5th grade students with trained 8th grade peer mentors. The national program is designed to help students feel cared for and supported during the transition. Since implementing the program, EAMS has experienced a notable decrease in behavioral referrals.

This 2026 grant will allow three more EAMS teachers to receive formal training in Chicago to become WEB advisors.

Resumption of Intramural Program

$6,000

Through the EAEF Athletic Fund, money was used to reinstate the EAMS intramural program amid budget cuts. The intramural program gives students a positive, inclusive opportunity to explore different activities, build friendships, develop teamwork and sportsmanship, and discover interests that may lead to future participation in East Aurora Athletics.

The 40-minute activities will take place three days a week, with different athletic options every two to three weeks.

Girls’ Hockey

$8,000

Through the EAEF Athletic Fund, money was used to establish a girls’ hockey program that gives EA students a new pathway to participate in a competitive interscholastic sport, grow, and represent East Aurora as part of a team. This program will provide students with a positive team environment where they can develop athletic skills, leadership, confidence, sportsmanship, and lifelong connections.

Passport to Possibilities

$15,108

The EAHS “Passport to Possibilities” program is a transition-readiness initiative designed to support students with disabilities and diverse learning needs as they prepare for adulthood.

This initiative combines individualized “transition passport” portfolios with hands-on transition skill task boxes and work-based learning to develop practical life and workplace skills that extend beyond traditional academic instruction (e.g., job readiness, independent living, communication and self-advocacy, financial literacy, community and workplace navigation, problem-solving, and social skills).

Some activities and work-based learning opportunities include:

• – What to wear prompts
• – Creating hygiene kits
• – Setting up the pantry, cooking, washing dishes
• – Picking up groceries from Instacart
• -Creating budgets
• – Blue Devil Coffee Cart, Bead by Bridget, “Stick It” Tim’s Sticker Business, Sadie’s Flower Shop, Designs by Fae, Steven’s Mix and Munch, Happy Birthday Club

The EAEF grant funded new kitchen appliances, tables, and chairs; the transition-skill task boxes and work-based learning materials; and gift cards for extra supplies.