The Hoff Impact Fund 2026 grant recipients.

FOOD DAYS

Seventh grade social studies teachers, Ryan Edinger and Ben Gipe, hold 4-5 “Food Days” at the end of each unit of study.  The teachers cook and purchase items from all over the world for the students to sample.

Specifically, Hoff Impact Funds are being used to purchase various food items (7-9 different entrees, sides, desserts, and drinks) as well as dinnerware for the Food Days.  The experience is enhancing the students’ experience in their classroom as they gain valuable knowledge about the culture and cuisine of the countries that they study throughout the year.

UFLI FOUNDATIONS READING MANUALS

Lauren Marziale of the Reading Specialist Team for students from kindergarten to fifth grade requested Hoff Impact Funds to purchase  eight UFLI Foundations Manuals.  UFLI is an explicit, systematic phonics program that provides essential foundational skills for students learning to read.  At Milton, the team uses them for small group intervention.

The additional manuals put UFLI in the hands of more teachers, allowing the reading team the opportunity to train classroom teachers to use the program with even more students so they can become stronger readers.

COFFEE CART

As a result of financial assistance from the Hoff Impact Fund, the fourth and fifth grade students in teacher Abbie Wolfe’s Autistic Support class are learning real world skills (social, money, etc.).  They have become friends with many teachers and students as they make their way through the building on Fridays.

Ms. Wolfe has purchased 2 coffee carts, baking supplies and ingredients, coffee cups, and other supplies for this activity.  On Thursdays the students prepare a dessert for the staff, and on Fridays the students, wearing gloves, a special apron, and name tags, sell the dessert and coffee/tea to the staff.

CELEBRATION OF US PRESIDENTS AND AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE – A NEW NATION

Eight first grade teachers will enhance the educational experience of 160 children by providing a celebration of their units on US Presidents and A New Nation:  American Independence. The celebration will also incorporate the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The festivities will take place on May 26, 2026, at the James F. Baugher Elementary School.

First grade teacher Mary DeLong applied for the Hoff Impact Funds that will be used to purchase patriotic items, craft items, food, and center materials for the 160 first graders.