The Indiana Area Education Foundation

Be a part of shaping the future!

The Indiana Area Educational Foundation is a non-profit organization formed in 2005 that raises private dollars through tax-deductible contributions to enrich educational opportunities and to support innovation and excellence in the schools of the Indiana Area School District. This goal is accomplished by funding grants for teachers and by strengthening communication between the community and the schools.

The IAEF operates independently from the Indiana Area School District for the primary benefit of its students. Funds raised by the Foundation promote and enhance educational programs and activities that are not funded within the constraints of the school district's operating budget.

Our Mission Statement:

The Foundation will ensure the highest level of education opportunity by supporting Indiana Area School District students, faculty and staff through a philanthropic partnership dedicated to supporting the academic, athletic, inclusive, extracurricular, and improvement initiatives of the IASD.

Our Initiatives:

Twice a year the Foundation offers grants for our district teachers. These grants are open in the spring and autumn of each year and award up to $500 per grant.

Our Spring grants were awarded to four amazing projects:

the Junior High builders club, a wonderful group of students who improve engagement their school and community in so many ways;
inclusive phys ed equipment for Horace Mann / Eisenhower students,
fostering the joy of reading by allowing SH students to select their own books at The Paper Garden; and,
implementing Yoto for literacy development for Ben Franklin third graders!

Check back with us in the summer for information about the autumn teacher grants for 2025.

The annual Superintendent's Award is a $1,000 scholarship awarded to a graduating SH student that has made a significant contribution or impact in our community. The application deadline for the 2025 Superintendent's Award scholarship has passed - the applications are being reviewed and will be announced soon.

The next window will be open in January 2026!

Currently our annual events are a spring 5K walk/run, a summer golf outing, and an autumn spaghetti dinner. We are working to implement:

an annual alumni Hall of Fame event;
an annual county-wide talent competition: Indiana County's Next Big Thing; and,
an inclusive playground at Ben Franklin Elementary!

Stay in touch with us on social media and our site here for updates!

Choose Where Your Dollars Go!

Athletics:

Many former athletes credit their experiences in high school sports with their success in life. Help support the incredible coaches, trainers, game-workers, and volunteers who dedicate their time and talents to changing the lives of student athletes! Check out our Booster Advertising Program to see how your business can be involved with our athletic community!

Stadium improvements
Uniform replacement/upgrades
Improved equipment

Education in the Arts:

Research shows that education in the creative arts results in improved student outcomes. Imaginative activities for young learners can lead to better skills in social interactions, help regulate emotions, improve creative problem-solving skills, and even help students improve language skills. Your support will enable student growth, promoting a beautiful and creative world around us!

Purchase of instruments
The creation of new music engineering space
Expansion of pottery program
Makerspace opportunities and partnerships

Inclusiveness and Accessibility:

The district will always be in compliance with the legal requirements for inclusivity and accessibility, but there is a significant difference between compliance and ensuring that everyone can enjoy a similar experience. Your donation can knock down barriers and improve conditions for children with special needs!

Inclusive Playground at Ben Franklin
Upgrades to school rooms to provide more inclusive support

STEM Programs:

Support the next generation of scientists who will keep America at the top of the world in Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Scientific Research!