Education
From Cradle to Career
Foundation education initiatives span from infancy to adulthood, meeting individuals where they are to create a better, brighter future. From early literacy and preschool all the way to traditional and non-traditional post-secondary education, our funding is channeled to unlock the potential of students of all ages.
PRESCHOOL RAISE ME TO READ INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE POTTAWATTAMIE PROMISE STARSscroll to discover
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, only 21.2 percent of the 25-year-old+ population in Pottawattamie County has earned a Bachelor's degree or higher. With this data it is clear that the Iowa West Foundation has identified a need in our community by establishing and funding the STARS program for adult learners. The Foundation has supported these nontraditional students not only monetarily but through supports and navigation throughout their educational journey. Through these efforts, we can enrich the lives of our students, our workforce, and our community.
Mia Laustrup
STARS Program Director
Preschool
Year after year, the Iowa West Foundation invests $1.1 million in preschoolers throughout Pottawattamie County region with a grant to the Green Hills Area Education Agency. Research shows participation in high-quality preschool accelerates academic achievement.
Green Hills AEARaise Me to Read
The Iowa West Foundation created and continues to be the lead supporter of the Raise Me to Read Campaign, with nearly $300,000 awarded in 2019. This early literacy initiative promotes reading, attendance and summer learning opportunities in the Council Bluffs metro.
Raise Me to ReadInternational Baccalaureate
The International Baccalaureate program encourages students to make practical connections between their studies and the real world. Including funding for the launch of the primary years program at College View and Carter Lake elementary schools, the Iowa West Foundation has awarded approximately $1 million in total toward the expansion of IB. This includes Council Bluffs Community School Districts’ Middle Schools: Wilson and Kirn. IB supports schools and teachers to provide a rigorous, high-quality education, that develops inquiring, knowledgable and caring young people who are motivated to succeed.
Pottawattamie Promise
The Iowa West Foundation launched this post-secondary scholarship initiative in 2015, and continues to serve as the primary funder. Hundreds of students throughout Pottawattamie County have earned their degree, certificate or credential from Iowa Western Community College through Pottawattamie Promise. The program is geared toward low to moderate income families who may not have considered college a possibility.
Pottawattamie PromiseSTARS
The Council Bluffs Schools Foundation administers this scholarship initiative, utilizing $345,000 in Iowa West Foundation funding in 2019. Designed to assist parents returning to school, STARS scholarships can cover books, child care, tuition or other costs associated with earning a college education.
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Economic Development