About the Grand Ledge Education Foundation

The Grand Ledge Education Foundation raises money from community support to provide grants for classroom opportunities across Grand Ledge Public Schools. These grants fund innovative programs, projects, and experiences that enrich learning for students and support educators. By connecting community resources with classroom needs, we help turn good ideas into meaningful educational impact.

Our Story

The Grand Ledge Education Foundation was established in 2002 by a group of concerned citizens who believed the community could play a meaningful role in supporting local schools. Today, GLEF operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, tax-exempt public charity, governed by a volunteer Board of Directors committed to responsible stewardship. Donations to GLEF are eligible for both federal and state tax deductions and directly support innovative educational opportunities for Grand Ledge students.

Our Mission

The mission of the Grand Ledge Education Foundation is the mobilize community resources to support innovative and enriching educational opportunities. This is accomplished through projects and initiatives designed to enhance student performance and expand quality academic experiences in preparation for the challenges of the future.

The Grand Ledge Education Foundation believes that every child can learn and succeed. We expect to effectively nurture community interest in the schools, forge new alliances, and institute programs and initiatives to raise student performance to its highest potential.

How We Work & Steward Our Funds

GLEF is committed to thoughtful grantmaking, responsible stewardship, and transparent use of community resources to support innovative learning in our schools.

  • Contributions support educator grants, enrichment programs, and initiatives that enhance student learning.

  • GLPS educators make applications through GLEF’s competitive grant process. Grant applications are reviewed by a volunteer committee using to ensure fairness, alignment with educational goals, and responsible use of funds.

  • Like many Mid-Michigan nonprofits, GLEF partners with the Capital Region Community Foundation to manage and grow our permanent endowment. Through professional investment and financial oversight, this partnership helps ensure long-term stability and lasting support for Grand Ledge students.

  • GLEF is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors and follows nonprofit best practices to ensure transparent, ethical financial management. GLEF’s Board of Directors is currently made up of people with financial, legal, educational, and project management backgrounds.

  • The Grand Ledge Education Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, tax-exempt public charity. Donations may be eligible for federal and state tax deductions.

Leadership & Board

The Grand Ledge Education Foundation is guided by a volunteer Board of Directors committed to strong governance, financial stewardship, and support for local schools.

Officers

Erica Ledesma
President

Toni Glasscoe
Vice President

Dean Dufort
Treasurer

April Welton
Secretary

Board Members

Tony Bechtol
Member

Steve Gabriel
Member

Nicole Shannon
Grand Ledge Public Schools Board of Education Representative