The Indiana Area School District recently accepted contributions to support two popular and impactful Indiana Area School District programs. Dave Reed, Regional President of First Commonwealth Bank, presented Superintendent Robert Heinrich with donations for the district’s Dual Enrollment program and the upcoming junior high Combat Bots competition.
Dual enrollment allows high school students to take college courses and be a step ahead in preparing for their future goals. Over the past five years, the Indiana Area School District Board of School Directors and district officials have worked tirelessly to build a collaborative and productive partnership with respected friends, parents, and colleagues in higher education in order to provide students with a pathway to success. First Commonwealth Bank’s contribution of $15,000 will go a long way towards providing opportunities for area students which, in turn, is an investment in our community, our Commonwealth, and our future workforce.
First Commonwealth Bank also provided $2,000 for the upcoming Combat Bots competition, which will be held at the Indiana Area Junior High School on May 17. The program began three years ago and was believed to be the first such event for middle school aged students. The competition engages students in STEM concepts, mathematical reasoning, scientific analysis, and technical competence but also requires teamwork, problem-solving, leadership skills and the clear articulation of ideas.
“We are so grateful to have such a supportive community and generous partners who choose to invest their tax money in our future,” said Heinrich. “The contributions made by First Commonwealth Bank will help dozens if not hundreds of students and their families learn, grow, and pursue their dreams. They have really embraced the idea behind the EITC program and we are thankful for their support in helping our students succeed.”
The EITC program, or Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program, is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). This program allows area businesses to allocate their tax dollars to local school districts to support a wide range of academic and enrichment programs.