This past spring students at Tri County Elementary saw themselves as a brave owl overcoming fear in the forest, bugs learning the value of teamwork, and a shark going to school- all characters that came to life in new library books thanks to a Montcalm Panhandle Community Fund grant.
“These books were carefully selected to reflect the diverse experiences, identities, and cultures of our school’s population, and help students feel seen and valued,” said Melanie Gould, Teacher-Librarian with the Howard City school. “The Montcalm Panhandle Community Fund (MPCF) has allowed our library to purchase books that engage by being reflective of our community.”
Research has shown students who feel connected to and valued within their school are more likely to come regularly.
Every week, students take books home, encouraging reading at home—an activity widely recognized as one of the most valuable ways caregivers can engage with their children. That activity improves student outcomes and strengthens school to family connections.
The effort toward improving student attendance rates and reading proficiency was funded in part by a $4,917 grant supported by the Robert W. & Fayga Parker Fund and the MPCF Unrestricted Fund, part of the 2024 grant cycle.
The grant was especially timely as the Tri County district had just completed the new elementary building, consolidating two locations into one state-of-the art facility, now with books that address topics such as empathy, resilience, conflict resolution, and emotional regulation.
The school reports a noticeable increase in attendance rates and growth towards reading proficiency, and plans to continue to gather data through the grant process.
“An educated, curious population is more likely to engage in civic activities, volunteer, and support local initiatives,” Gould said. “The access to resources that this grant funding provides is a gift that will keep on giving for many years to come! This support brings more stories and knowledge to our students, and we are truly grateful.”
As GACF celebrates its 35th anniversary, we bring together the collective stories of donors, nonprofits, students, and community members to demonstrate the power of philanthropy in creating lasting impact and a stronger future.
