Foundation for Dubuque Public Schools Seeks Funding for LEAP Middle School Program

DUBUQUE, IOWA— The Foundation for Dubuque Public Schools is reaching out to the community to raise funds in support of LEAP afterschool programs at Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Washington Middle Schools.

LEAP (Leadership Enrichment Afterschool Program) activities have been offered free of charge to Dubuque Community School District 6th – 8th grade students for the past several years, thanks to funding from a federal grant and the Foundation for Dubuque Public Schools (FDPS).  Through LEAP, many of Dubuque’s students have experienced ice-skating and kayaking for the first time, earned babysitting safety certifications, explored elements of engineering and design, and performed Shakespeare, to name just a few activities. 

Grant funding came to an end last year and new resources are needed to continue.  In response, the school district and LEAP activity providers are collaborating with FDPS to raise funds in support of this important program.

Why is LEAP important?  LEAP programming maximizes student participation in out-of school activities by working with community partners to engage students with diverse interests.  LEAP benefits our kids by:

-Providing opportunities for those who may not already be involved with clubs or sports to try new activities and build self-confidence

-Creating stronger personal connections to schools and peer groups

-Providing free tutoring and homework help

-Offering a safe environment during hours when many parents are still at work

Current sponsors include Ed and Susan Ritts, the Longshadow Foundation, Theisen’s Home – Farm – Auto, Doug and Karen Horstmann, Jim and Pam Miller, Rommel and Donnelle Fuerste, and other individual donors.  Local businesses and the public are invited to support LEAP with a tax deductible donation to the Foundation for Dubuque Public Schools, LEAP Fund.  Sponsorship information, a donation form (individual or sponsorship), and an online donation link can be found on the FDPS webpage at www.dbqfoundation.org/FDPS. 

For more information, contact Jennifer Klinkhammer, FDPS executive director at jennifer@dbqfoundation.org or (563) 588-2700, or visit www.dbqfoundation.org/FDPS.

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The Foundation for Dubuque Public Schools (FDPS) promotes the importance of public education by increasing community investment for the enhancement of student achievement in the Dubuque Public Schools. FDPS board members and staff fulfill this mission by securing financial gifts and grants for school programs and projects that are not currently supported by public tax dollars. Learn more at www.dbqfoundation.org/FDPS.