GRANTS AWARDED

Hammonton Education Foundation awards

$44,217.61 in grants for 2025-2026 school year

Foundation Supports 15 Innovative Programs Across All Hammonton Schools

The Hammonton Education Foundation (HEF) is proud to announce the awarding of $44,217.61 in grants to fund 15 innovative and impactful projects across Hammonton Public Schools for the 2025–2026 school year. This year, the Foundation received a record number of grant applications, demonstrating the creativity and dedication of district educators.

“The exceptional volume and caliber of proposals we received this year reflect the unwavering dedication of our educators to enhancing the student experience,” said Monica Kemp, Co-Chair of HEF’s Program Allocations Committee. “We are proud to fund such a diverse array of programs that will positively impact students across all grade levels—from preschool through high school.”

Grant recipients and their awarded projects include:

Early Childhood Education Center (ECEC)

Ride for Regulation – $1,819.42 awarded for the purchase of classroom cruisers that support emotional regulation and focus in preschool through first-grade students. These stationary bikes are designed to help students channel their energy, reduce anxiety, and improve focus, making them a great tool for early childhood education.

ECEC / Warren E. Sooy Elementary School (WES)

Vision Screening Program – $6,845 awarded for a vision screening device to improve early detection of visual impairments. This device is 85% effective compared to the traditional eye chart, which is only 50% effective in detecting visual disturbances that may affect students.

Warren E. Sooy Elementary School (WES)

Community-Based Instruction Program – $500 to fund community-based field trips for special education students in grades 2–5. These trips will provide real world experiences to apply classroom concepts, practice essential life skills like navigating new environments and social interaction, and reinforce learning through sensory engagement, all while allowing students to gain confidence in new situations.
Revitalize WES Greenhouse – $1,086.92 awarded to continue revitalizing the greenhouse and provide hands-on learning in experiential environmental education. This program allows students to connect with nature in a meaningful way while learning about sustainability.
Portable PA System – $834.97 awarded to enhance instructional and event communication that will help ensure safe, accessible and inclusive school and grade-level events. The portable nature of this system will enable clear and effective communication for a variety of settings.

Hammonton Middle School (HMS)

Classroom Library & Art Station – $1,500 awarded to support reading and fine motor skills in special education. The library will be used to assist and expand student knowledge, while the art station will engage various fine motor skills, improve hand-eye coordination, and dexterity skills.
Quilting Academy – $1,500 awarded to expand the successful sewing program initiated last year. The grant will help purchase additional cutting mats, sewing machines, and consumable supplies such as threads, fabric, sewing needles, and more.
Gaga Pit – $6,250 awarded for the installation of a recreational gaga pit for use in the physical education program to enhance current curriculum while aligning with the district’s commitment to health and wellness initiatives. The pit incorporates the skills necessary for sports success and athletic development yet is conducted in a way that everyone can enjoy.
Unplugged Club Expansion – $1,500 awarded for supplies to grow this screen-free student club which promotes communication and teamwork skills by enabling students to complete hands-on, shared activities in a supportive environment.
Outdoor Learning Classroom – $10,000 awarded for an immersive outdoor learning classroom for school use that includes seating from repurposed materials, shade structures, and weatherproof instructional tools such as outdoor whiteboards and signage.

Hammonton High School (HHS)

Golf Unit for Physical Education – $6,500 awarded to launch a new golf program in the PE curriculum. The unit will make use of Birdie Ball golf balls, designed to mimic a real golf ball while being safe in a confined area. This integration will introduce a new sport in a fun and safe manner while fostering an appreciation for a game they can play for their entire lives.
VEX High Stakes Game Field – $2,235.74 awarded to support a new Robotics course with the latest VEX game field. This game will foster student engagement and enthusiasm in the final quarter curriculum, allowing them to demonstrate social skills and teamwork as well.
Freshman Jumpstart – $1,000 awarded to provide materials for the current freshman transition program. This grant will supplement the district program by funding supplies to promote school spirit and prizes for attendance, encouraging activity participation and engagement.

Morgan’s Message: Mental Health Awareness – $1,000 awarded to support mental health awareness campaigns at dedication games during the fall, winter, and spring athletic seasons. Morgan’s Message is a non-profit dedicated to amplifying discussions on the mental health challenges faced by student athletes and fostering a culture where seeking help is normalized.

Cricut Maker 3 for Up for Life Program – $1,645.56 awarded for student-designed projects supporting life skills development. Using this equipment, students will explore vinyl cutting, weeding and transfer, material cutting, wood cutting, engraving, and more.

Since its inception, the Hammonton Education Foundation has remained committed to enhancing educational opportunities by funding programs that extend beyond the district’s operating budget.

“We are incredibly grateful to our generous community members and local businesses whose support makes these grants possible,” said Ms. Kemp. “Their contributions through fundraising events and initiatives allow us to empower educators in bringing innovative and impactful learning experiences to life. These projects are thoughtfully designed to spark curiosity, promote well-being, and equip students for lifelong success.”