Idaho consistently ranks as one of the lowest in per capita spending for public education.
mdef aims to help bridge that gap by providing educational grant funding to local educators
to date, mdef has awarded
$516,000

Our Vision
Our vision is an engaged community committed to helping children reach their highest potential through innovative educational experiences.
Our Mission
To accomplish our vision, the McCall-Donnelly Education Foundation serves as an advocate and catalyst for educational excellence. We secure and provide funding, and engage and mobilize our existing community assets to enhance learning opportunities for children.
Our History
MDEF, a nonprofit 501(c)3 foundation, was established in 2006 by a committed and concerned group of citizens, who cared about our children, to address the increasing shortfall in public funds available to maintain the margin of excellence essential for our students to succeed and excel in our global society. Since its inception we have donated more than $500,000 to the McCall-Donnelly School District and area non-profits. As a result of our fundraising efforts, the school district and educational organizations in our area have been able to fund critical programs and materials in our local schools.

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2022-2023 GRANT APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN
Grant proposals must be for no less than $2,500 and no more than $25,000. If you are affiliated with the McCall Donnelly School District then the Principal for the students who will be involved in your project must sign your application.
Guidelines
The McCall – Donnelly Education Foundation is now accepting applications for projects that fall within any of the following categories. Projects must clearly meet the intent of one of the following categories to be considered:
- New and innovative programs that drive academic success in STEM education
- Supporting student well-being and mental health with educational and engaging activities.
- Innovative programs that promote art, music, and creative thinking
- Programs that promote healthier lifestyles and physical activities in new and innovative ways
GRANT SPOTLIGHT

Children’s Theater
The McCall Arts & Humanities Council’s Children’s Theater program will offer two 6-week after school theater workshops for students in grades 4 through 8, twice weekly 3:15 to 5:15—one in the fall, and one in the spring. Students will receive experiential education in acting, improvisation, verbal and non-verbal communication, and teamwork. Workshops will be supplemented by auditions and a full 8-week theatrical production culminating in 6 performances during the winter. This program will also serve to pull together students, educators, parents and community organizations. Overall, 60 students will be directly involved and up to 300 participants indirectly impacted by performances throughout the district.