Educational Excellence: A Shared Commitment Across Our Community Our Impact Together, we’re building a culture where educational excellence isn’t just a goal - it’s a shared commitment across our entire community. The Bozeman Schools Foundation works hand-in-hand with families, educators, and local partners to turn that commitment into real opportunities for students and educators. Impact Empowering Our Schools, Inspiring Our Future We support the educators and staff who make our schools exceptional, and the students who seek knowledge to shape the future. Through community-driven programs, we celebrate their dedication and help turn ambition into lasting impact. Programs Our Partners The Bozeman Schools Foundation is proud to partner with BSD7, local businesses, organizations, and generous individuals who share our commitment to educational excellence. These community champions play a vital role in helping us turn shared values into meaningful opportunities for students and educators across the district. Their support fuels our programs, strengthens our impact, and reflects the power of collaboration. We deeply value these partnerships and are grateful for the lasting difference they make in Bozeman’s schools. Sponsors CONNECT WITH US Follow @bozemanschoolsfoundation on Instagram and FB Load More

Events Links To Literacy Book Giveaway September 26, 2025 The Bozeman Schools Foundation proudly provides a book to every first grader, their teacher, and school librarian at the start of each school year. Early reading plays a powerful role in a child’s development, boosting comprehension, vocabulary, writing skills, and even emotional well-being. That’s why literacy remains a cornerstone of our mission: to ensure every child has the tools to grow, learn, and thrive. In 2025, students received We Match, written by Chris Barton and illustrated by Sharon Glick. Donate Santa Run For Education 5k December 5, 2026 Join the Bozeman Schools Foundation as we celebrate education, wellness, and community through our annual Santa Run for Education 5K. This beloved tradition brings families, friends, and neighbors together for a festive kickoff to the holiday season. More than just a race, the Santa Run is a joyful gathering that supports the Foundation’s mission to champion excellence in education across all Bozeman schools. Be part of the excitement with fun activities, great prizes, and plenty of good cheer! Prize giveaways for school participation and community engagement Awards for top finishers in all age categories Special photo opportunities with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the Yeti Cookies and hot chocolate in our Winter Wonderland Whether you run, walk, stroll, or cheer from the sidelines, the Santa Run for Education is a wonderful way to support local students and teachers while celebrating the spirit of the season. Learn More Presented by Stockman Bank BSD7 Staff Holiday Appreciation Party December 10, 2025 The Bozeman Schools Foundation is excited to host the annual BSD7 Staff Holiday Party—a celebration honoring the incredible dedication and hard work of our educators and staff. This event wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of our community, and we’re truly grateful for their generosity and partnership. Donate Pack The Sack February 1 - 14, 2026 Hunger affects 1 in 5 elementary students in the Gallatin Valley. The Bozeman Schools Foundation partners with BSD7, families, local businesses, and the Gallatin Valley Food Bank to raise awareness and provide critical support through the KidsPack program. For just $8, a donation supplies a student with three nutritious meals and snacks for the weekend. Last year, over 7,700 KidsPack bags were distributed, and school pantries were stocked to support middle and high school students throughout the week. Together, we’re working to ensure no child in our community goes hungry. Donate Community & Memorial Scholarship Celebration May 13, 2026 The Bozeman Schools Foundation partners with families, individuals, and local businesses to offer named and endowed scholarships for graduating seniors in the Bozeman School District. These scholarships honor loved ones, celebrate educators, and support students pursuing a wide range of academic and career paths. Each spring, students can apply or be nominated for these awards, which reflect our community’s commitment to recognizing achievement and investing in future success. Learn More Worthy Student Scholarship Celebration May 20, 2026 The Worthy Student Award is a $1,500 scholarship presented to select Bozeman seniors who exemplify integrity, perseverance, and strong character. What makes this program unique is that recipients are nominated by educators, staff, and peers—recognized as standout members of their graduating class. Each year, up to 40 scholarships are awarded—celebrating students not just for academic or athletic achievements, but for the values that make them truly worthy. Learn More

Our Mission The Bozeman Schools Foundation exists to cultivate community support for teachers and students in the Bozeman Public Schools, helping to secure the resources necessary to provide every student the opportunity to succeed and make a positive impact in the world. Our Vision An informed and engaged community committed to and invested in excellent, innovative, and caring public schools in which families feel welcome, educators feel valued, and all students are provided with the tools and opportunities to succeed. Our Values Excellence Innovation Inclusivity Collaboration Community Engagement Sustainability Foundation Team Our foundation staff are the driving force behind every initiative, bringing energy, expertise, and commitment to all they do. From coordinating programs to building partnerships, their dedication turns our mission into a meaningful reality for the community. Laura Kuntz Executive Director Jenn Lammers Director of Strategic Initiatives & Community Engagement Penelope Reed Manager of Scholarships & Grants Amelia Huba Program Officer, Family School Services & Community Engagement Laura grew up in Montana and met her husband while attending Montana State University. They have 4 children that have all graduated from Bozeman High School. Prior to joining the Bozeman Schools Foundation, she started a career in manufacturing, serving as a Master Scheduler and managing IT, Inventory, and Shipping departments. She later transitioned into education-focused roles, gaining hands-on experience in operations, technology, training, and coordinating children’s learning programs. She has been actively involved with Bozeman Schools and Parent Advisory Councils since 2003 and has seen firsthand how BSF enriches and supports educational opportunities for both students and teachers. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring creative outlets, volunteering for local organizations, is an active member and Past President of the Bozeman Sunrise Rotary, loves traveling and spending time outdoors—especially camping, hiking, and kayaking. Jenn and her husband Eric moved to Bozeman full-time in 2016 to raise their two children, Leland and Ruby, closer to family. Jenn immediately became active in our schools, serving as Treasurer for the Longfellow PAC, serving on various district committees, and supporting her children’s interests by helping raise funds for Robotics and DECA teams as well as ski, dance and theater organizations. Prior to joining BSF as the Executive Director in 2021, Jenn provided nonprofit strategy, financial management and fundraising support through her consulting business and taught nonprofit management for college and graduate level students as well as professional developement for industry professionals. She is currently Board Chair for the Bozeman Children’s Theatre, having recently termed off the One Valley Community Foundation after six years. Her relaxation time includes skiing, stand up paddle boarding, horseback riding and cooking. Penelope moved to Bozeman in 2019 to attend Montana State University as a Business Marketing student. She began as the Marketing and Communications intern for the Bozeman Schools Foundation in December of 2022 and joined the staff full-time after graduating in May of 2023. Using her education in marketing and expanding into a bigger role in Community and Memorial Scholarships is exactly what she hoped to be able to pursue post-college. Outside of work she enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, arts and crafts, and reading. Amelia Huba is the Program Officer with Family-School Services in collaboration with the Bozeman Schools Foundation. She originally came to Montana in 2022 as an AmeriCorps VISTA, serving two terms before beginning to work with the Foundation. Her role involves supporting vulnerable students within the district through grantwriting, advocacy, and projects which support youths in need. Amelia co-wrote the winning grant for 100 Strong's Spring Session, gaining $10,000 for the district's supplemental nutrition program. Outside of work you can find Amelia hiking with her dog or enjoying Bozeman's coffee shops with her friends. Board of Directors Kristy Johns Board Chair Melanie Schell Co-Vice Chair Roland MacNichol Co-Vice Chair Bobby Bell Treasurer Kristy Johns, a native Montanan and alumna of Montana State University, has spent the last 18 years raising her family under the Big Sky and actively supporting Bozeman's public schools since 2009. She brings a parent-focused perspective to public education. As a parent of four children who have grown (and still are growing) through BSD7—from kindergarten milestones to AP classes and college applications—Kristy has seen firsthand the critical role that strong, well-supported public schools play in building our thriving community. Her appreciation for qualified educators, engaged families, and supported staff drives her commitment to championing public education. In addition to her role on the board, Kristy has been a dedicated volunteer in both schools and community programs. When she’s not lending her time and energy to local causes, you’ll likely find her enjoying Montana’s outdoors—on a paddle board, a trail, or the golf course. Melanie N. Schell is the Managing Principal & General Counsel for Bannack Group, LLC, a Bozeman-based national nonprofit consultancy. A seasoned non-profit attorney, Melanie has extensive experience as an executive-level manager, in-house counsel, communications strategist, and planned gift specialist. She blends her knowledge of law and best practices with nonprofit sensibilities to develop mission-based solutions for clients of all sizes and all stages including medical foundations, private schools, veterans groups, university foundations, and amateur and professional sports organizations. Melanie manages Bannack’s corporate office and counsels nonprofit organizations on organizational formation, sound operational policies and procedures, compliance, communications, major fundraising initiatives, deferred giving and creative philanthropy, board training, board/staff roles, and key organizational transitions. Melanie earned her law degree from the University of Utah College of Law and a BA from Montana State University. She has lived in Bozeman for the last 16 years with her husband, Bill, and her 3 children: Ana, Megan, and Griffin. Roland served students and families in Washington State for 36 years as a teacher, school administrator, and Principal. He served as a School and District Leadership Coach in Washington State working in school and district improvement. Much of this work was developing strategic plans rooted in creating healthy and safe school communities with strong social and emotional systems in place. A critical piece of this work was developing authentic partnerships with all stakeholders and nurturing equitable practices and courageous leadership.Her appreciation for qualified educators, engaged families, and supported staff drives her commitment to championing public education. In addition to her role on the board, Kristy has been a dedicated volunteer in both schools and community programs. When she’s not lending her time and energy to local causes, you’ll likely find her enjoying Montana’s outdoors—on a paddle board, a trail, or the golf course." Bobby grew up in Texas but found his heart’s true home in the mountain west and Bozeman. In his 40+ year professional career he developed state of the art business and computing solutions for financial firms and government organizations around the world. Throughout his career, he worked closely with executive leadership in corporate strategy and new product development. Since retirement, Bobby was an adjunct professor at George Washington University and Central Wyoming College. He co-founded Bison Scholarships, which provides assistance to graduating high-school seniors pursuing a vocational education. He enjoys his work with the Bozeman Sunrise Rotary and local conservation organizations. He is an avid traveler, wildlife photographer and blogger. His photos and blogs are published on his website - www.throughmywindshield.net He loves outdoor activities in all 4 seasons and recently tried fly fishing. Bobby holds a BS in Mathematics and Computer Science from The University of Texas and an MS in Information Systems from The George Washington University. Hillary Klug Secretary Mykal Ageson Board of Directors Brian Todd Board of Directors Ann Ellsworth Board of Directors Hilary Klug currently serves as the gifted coordinator for the Bozeman School District and is a Nationally Board Certified teacher in Early Adolescent Language Arts. She earned her BA in English at Colby College in Waterville, Maine, and holds an MA in English/Writing from Middlebury College and an MA in Curriculum & Instruction from University of Montana. In her 26 years of education, she has worked in a variety of roles including curriculum and assessment specialist, literacy coordinator, and English teacher. She has presented at the Bozeman Public Library on college essay writing and has offered college application boot camps; she has also presented at state technology conferences and shared instructional strategies using technology with private and rural schools in Montana. She has served on a wide variety of district, state and national committees/task forces. Hilary and her husband Jim are proud Bozeman School District parents of three children. In her spare time, Hilary loves to spend time with her family, travel, read, and ski. Mykal was born and raised in Montana and is a University of Montana graduate. She moved to Bozeman in 2016 and shortly after started working for Stockman Bank. She has held several different banking positions but is excited to be in lending and working with customers. She enjoys cooking, hiking on Montana’s many trails, and spending time with friends and family at the lake. Mykal lives in Bozeman with her husband and 2 sons. Brian grew up in the Bitterroot valley and received an Electrical Engineering degree from Montana State University. During the course of his career he has worked in data communication, software development, and program management. He currently works as a Senior Business Operations Consultant with Motorola Solutions. Brian moved back to Montana in 2009 so his daughter could attend Bozeman schools and enjoy the boundless recreational opportunities available locally. Brian appreciates the opportunity to support Bozeman's schools and students through the Bozeman Schools Foundation. Originally from the Midwest, Ann joined the Department of Education at Montana State University as a literacy educator. Her classroom teaching experience along with her doctoral work at the University of Wisconsin-Madison positioned her to teach and mentor teacher candidates and practicing teachers. The University has recognized her numerous contributions by honoring her with many teaching and service awards: the Founder’s Day Award for Faculty Excellence, the Extraordinary-Ordinary Woman Award, the Online Teaching Excellence Award, the President’s Distinguished Teaching Award for Superior Teaching, the Women’s Faculty Caucus Distinguished Mentor, and the Dorothy Aasheim Memorial Award for Outstanding Service. Over the course of her career, she has seen first-hand how teachers make a difference. Her two daughters attended K-12 Bozeman schools, and it is this commitment as a parent and educator that energizes her community and professional work. Her interests include traveling, hiking, baking, and of course, reading. Ben Frentsos Board of Directors Paige Wyatt Board of Directors Candace Pratt Board of Directors Anne Keith Board of Directors Ben Frentsos, Director of Community Impact, Greater Gallatin United Way is a graduate of MSU and earned his MPA from the University of Montana. Before joining Greater Gallatin United Way he worked for MSU Extension and was a Peace Corps Volunteer. Ben is proud to support BSF because supporting public education fosters a healthier community by promoting equal access to knowledge, which leads to better health outcomes, economic stability, and social cohesion. In 2024 Ben was recognized by the Bozeman Chronicle as a Top 40 Under 40 for his role in supporting youth programs, non-profit vitality, and community partnerships. Ben is from Kalispell and enjoys spending as much time as possible outside. Paige Wyatt is an academic advisor and instructor for Montana State University. Paige earned her BFA in Modern Dance from the University of Utah and her MSW from San José State University. Prior to entering her Master’s program, Paige served in the domestic Peace Corps – AmeriCorps – working with the medically underserved. With more than 20 years of direct service experience with young adults, adolescents, and children and families, Paige brings a diversity of experience to her work with students and her service to the community. She joined the Board of the Bozeman Schools Foundation in 2020. A native Montanan, she returned to the Treasure State in 2007 with her partner and three lively children. They can be found Nordic skiing during the winter and huckleberry hunting in Montana’s backcountry during the summer. Candace was born and raised in California and has enjoyed spending every summer of her life in Montana visiting relatives and enjoying the beautiful outdoors. Her mother is from Bozeman and father from Butte. Candace and her husband, James, always hoped to raise their children in Montana and were thrilled when the opportunity arose in 2014 to move to Bozeman. Candace is a First Vice President of Investments for Wells Fargo Advisors and has been advising clients for over two decades. Education has always been a priority for Candace because her mother is a renowned educator who instilled in her the values and virtues of learning. The greatest gift a child can receive is an education as no one can take it away from them. She received both a BS in Business Administration from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, and an International MBA Loyola Marymount University. She enjoys volunteering at her children’s schools and has been active in Girl Scouts. Candace appreciates the opportunity to serve Bozeman students and parents and relishes being part of the Bozeman Schools Foundation. Anne Keith, M.Ed. NBCT, is a Montana native. She grew up in Helena and raised her two daughters in Bozeman with her husband, Kurt. Anne served in a variety of roles in public education over her 30 year career, including: multi-age teacher, middle school teacher, Instructional Coach, K-5 principal & K-12 Interim Curriculum Director. She proudly served a seven year term on the Montana Board of Public Education. She currently mentors new rural school teachers across the state. Anne is a Nationally Board Certified teacher in Early Adolescent Mathematics and was honored as the Montana Teacher of the Year and with the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math & Science Teaching. She is passionate about empowering both teachers and students to ensure schools provide a high quality learning environment. Anne believes that public education is the great equalizer for our country and is proud to join the Bozeman Schools Foundation to support Bozeman Public Schools. Anne likes to slog (slow jog), golf, swim, ski, read, learn and spend time with her family. Laney Langlas Board of Directors Amy Sowers Board of Directors Laney is a parent of three lovely girls who attend High School at Gallatin High and one in Chief Joseph Middle School. She worked at Big Sky Journal and Western Art and Architecture in a sales and Marketing capacity. Her career at the Journal and WAA has made her passionate about Western Contemporary Art. In her free time she enjoys skiing and boating with her family as well as chasing her girls around at their various sporting events. When a fellow board member approached her about becoming involved with BSF, she thought it was a great opportunity to help our schools and give back to the schools and educators who do so much for the community. This is her second year on the committee. Last year she was on the Worthy Student Scholars Committee and delivered Apple Awards to teachers and read books with the 1st graders. This year she is interested in also getting involved in the Sparks Grants and teacher holiday party. We are lucky to live in such a wonderful community with excellent schools. Amy grew up in Great Falls, MT. She graduated with a degree in graphic design from the MSU school of Art. She has been a freelance graphic designer for the last 15 years. Amy has a child in the Bozeman school district and is excited to be able to be involved in her education through volunteering within the classroom and being a member of BSF. She and her partner own an apiary, keeping bees and selling local honey. When she is not outside spending time with her family and two dogs, boating, camping & hiking, you can find her in the boxing gym. BSD7 Liaisons Casey Bertram BSD7 Superintendent Kevin Black Board of Trustees Chair

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Community & Memorial Scholarships The Bozeman Schools Foundation offers multiple community sponsored and memorial scholarships for students graduating from the Bozeman School District. We work together with individuals and families to establish named and endowed scholarships for graduating high school seniors. See all of our Community & Memorial Scholarships here. Applications Open 12/14/26 Establishing Scholarships Individuals and groups wishing to create and award scholarships through the Bozeman Schools Foundation may establish an Endowed Scholarship Fund or an Annual Scholarship. Scholarships can also be created in honor of, or in memory of, a person or family. The BSF Board will work closely with scholarship creators and donors to accurately fulfill their wishes. The Bozeman Schools Foundation policy is to accept funds in any amount for scholarship purposes, as long as no restrictions are placed on the gift that conflict with the existing policies of the Foundation. The lifespan of the scholarship will be determined by the amount of the initial gift, subsequent donations, interest, and by the frequency and the amount of the award. If you are interested in creating a scholarship, please Contact Us. The Foundation works with high school guidance counselors to promote the scholarship opportunities, and a BSF committee of community volunteers meets to evaluate and select recipients of the scholarship funds. Donate to a Scholarship 2026 Scholarship Recipients Harper Greer Bison Kalen Moore Bison Syd Hilliard Bison Hallie Clark Bozeman Friends of Music Outstanding Music Contribution Jackson Fiedler Bozeman Friends of Music Outstanding Music Contribution Emma Gallub Bozeman Rotary Ethan Waldo Bozeman Rotary Audrey Schaub Bozeman Sunrise Rotary BHS Student of the Year Heidi Huber Bozeman Sunrise Rotary BHS Student of the Year Kayla Kronske Bozeman Sunrise Rotary Keiley Orr Bozeman Sunrise Rotary Paola Ayala Bozeman Sunrise Rotary Graci Fra ser Debi Flanigan Memorial Katie Crosby Jesse Hoff Memorial Makayla Oberly Jesse Hoff Memorial Maria Martell Jesse Hoff Memorial Justin Mills Joe Knarr Memorial Adelia Palchak Kay Brown Memorial Ida May Huseby Leif Babcock Memorial Felix Hogenson Leif Babcock Memorial Avery DeJarlais Patrice Lee Parks Memorial Maria Martell Patrick R. Donehoo Memorial Noah Cross Patrick R. Donehoo Memorial Alyssa Dyk TEACH Bozeman Graci Fraser TEACH Bozeman Awarded to a Bozeman Senior Travis Atkins Memorial Jaxson Huckert Travis Atkins Memorial Peyton Lewis Wantulok Art Memorial Ayden Warden Wyatt Evans Memorial Syd Hilliard Wyatt Evans Memorial Andrea Medina Youth Resilience Wellness Ambassador Bailey Kumlien Youth Resilience Wellness Ambassador Emma Gallub Youth Resilience Wellness Ambassador Makayla Oberly Youth Resilience Wellness Ambassador Merritt Covington Youth Resilience Wellness Ambassador

Apple Awards Teacher Appreciation Week is May 4–8, 2026. It's a special time to honor the dedicated educators who inspire, guide, and make a lasting impact every single day. Purchase Apple Awards The Apple Award Program celebrates exceptional BSD7 teachers, administrators, and staff, and helps fund important programs across the district. When you purchase an Apple Award, you're not just showing appreciation, you're also supporting initiatives that strengthen our entire school community. Whether it's a teacher who sparked your love for learning, guided you through a tough time, or simply made the classroom a place of joy and discovery, now is the time to say thank you. Apple Awards are available to purchase from April 1 - May 31. Purchase Apple Awards Every educator that you purchase an Apple Award for receives: An Apple Award Certificate with your personal message along with an apple Recognition of their honor on the Bozeman Schools Foundation website Acknowledgment of their distinction given to the school Principal and Superintendent

Worthy Student Scholarship The Worthy Student Scholarship Award is a $1,500 scholarship given to select Bozeman seniors to further their education. This scholarship program is unique in that recipients are personally selected by Bozeman educators, staff, and peers as deserving representatives of their graduating class. These scholarships recognize students who demonstrate good character, high ethical values, and the ability to persevere. Up to 40 scholarships are given to Bozeman high school seniors each year. Donate to WS Scholarships 2026 Worthy Students Nolan Aengst Lorenzo Alvarado Connor Baller Walter Brown Anastasiia Burdeyna Rosemary Cassavaugh Aiden Cirillo Makayla Coleman Merritt Covington Noah Cross Isabella DeFanti Alyssa Dyk Kilee Fenmore Sam Funderburk Oscar Glick Ezra Graham Eden Groth Alexandra Hansen Aubrielle Hansen Wilder Henningsen Sean Higgs Heidi Huber Elina Maganito Finneas McGeehan Andrea Medina Miles Meinders Justin Mills Charles Moody Jameson Palmer Audrey Schaub Henry Scott Cash Shonkwiler Zachary Simms Bailey Starner Dawson Swift Luis Tabares Logan Thum Lilly Walstad Callahan Waters Avery Westphal

Programs From creative classroom enrichment to professional development for educators, our programs foster growth, collaboration, and opportunity across our schools. Explore how these impactful programs are shaping the future of education in the Bozeman community. Apple Awards The Apple Award program honors exceptional teachers, administrators, staff, and school leaders—while helping fund vital programs across the Bozeman School District. Your support helps us celebrate those who inspire, lead, and elevate learning every day. Learn More Bozeman Reads In 2021, the Bozeman School District and Bozeman Schools Foundation launched Bozeman Reads, an early literacy program. With support from our donors, we help parents and childcare providers prepare our youngest learners for school success. Learn More Bruce Colton Memorial Fund For Faculty & Staff Wellness This fund honors Bruce Colton, a beloved health enrichment teacher and founder of BSD7’s Wellness Coordinator role. His legacy reflects a deep commitment to the well-being of Bozeman’s educators and staff. Donate Essential Needs Each year, hundreds of Bozeman students face the harsh realities of homelessness and food insecurity. The Bozeman Schools Foundation is committed to ensuring every student has the support they need to thrive—providing access to nutrition, emergency housing, and essential resources that foster stability and success. Donate Links To Literacy Each fall, the Bozeman Schools Foundation gives every first grader, teacher, and librarian a book through our Links to Literacy program. Families also receive tips and resources that highlight the vital role parents play in early reading development. Because strong reading skills lay the foundation for lifelong learning, literacy remains a core focus of our mission. Donate Pack The Sack Hunger affects 1 in 5 elementary students in the Gallatin Valley. Through a partnership with BSD7 schools, families, and the Gallatin Valley Food Bank, the Bozeman Schools Foundation supports Kidspacks—providing weekend meals to students who might otherwise go without. Together, we’re raising awareness and delivering nourishment where it’s needed most. Learn More Scholarships Supporting bright minds and future leaders, our scholarship programs provide financial assistance to deserving students pursuing higher education. We believe in investing in education to create a brighter future for all. 2026 BDC Scholarship Insert Community & Memorial Worthy Student Spark Grants The Spark Grant program empowers Bozeman educators to bring creative ideas to life—supporting innovative teaching, hands-on learning, and enrichment experiences that go beyond the classroom, helping students thrive. Donate Youth Resilience Fund The Youth Resilience Fund supports youth by promoting mental well-being, suicide prevention, and peer connection. Created in memory of Walker J. Nelson, the fund invests in programs that build resilience and ensure no student faces a mental health crisis alone. Together, we’re building a culture where every child feels seen, supported, and valued. Learn More

Spark Grants The Spark Grant Program empowers educators and staff to bring bold, imaginative ideas to life - initiatives that might not receive funding through traditional channels. It’s a chance to ignite innovation and enrich learning in ways that spark curiosity and growth. Apply Here Teachers and staff can submit applications for amounts up to $3,000. Applicants will provide information on their project, the amount needed, and how the Spark Grant would help their educational enhancement needs. Donate Types of Grants We Like to Fund Pilot projects that “spark” district or school-wide implications once the grant period has ended Classroom projects aimed at improving student performance in a classroom setting, including collaboration with other teachers, parents, etc. School collaboration projects aimed at connecting various grade levels or an entire school in a program or project Projects that combine school curriculum with activities that partner with the community Programs specifically designed for at-risk students Programs that encourage differentiated instruction Programs that take students out of the normal classroom setting (i.e. outdoor activities, activities that allow students to apply learning to real world experiences, etc.) Projects led by students and or student-run clubs with the oversight of an adult district advisor (district advisor’s name and contact information must be included on application) Creative projects that work with many different learning styles Projects that pilot new technology in a well thought-out, student-centered way Projects that can be replicated year after year (sustainability) Grants We Cannot Fund Food for events District-required textbooks Projects that are intended to create a non-profit or for-profit venture Professional development Reimbursement for previously incurred expenses Substitute teachers Stipends to pay BSD7 teachers for summer/extra work Individual student scholarships for travel Projects that cannot be implemented within one year Projects written by anyone other than Bozeman School District teachers, staff and students Projects that have not been approved by a department head and or school principal

Pack The Sack One in 5 elementary students face hunger in the Gallatin Valley. The Bozeman Schools Foundation works with students, families, BSD7 elementary schools, and the Gallatin Valley Food Bank to raise awareness of food insecurity and raise funds for Kidspacks to support students who may otherwise go hungry. A donation of $8.00 provides a local student with 3 healthy meals and snacks for the weekend in a KidsPack bag. The Gallatin Valley Food Bank distributed over 7,763 KidsPack bags last semester and helped stock food pantries in the middle and high schools for students needing food during the week. With your help, the Bozeman Schools Foundation raised over $27,500 in 2025 for KidsPacks! Thank you for joining us in supporting our students who experience food insecurity. Donate Learn more about Pack the Sack and sign up to receive KidsPacks at https://gallatinvalleyfoodbank.org/get-help/childhoodhungerinitiatives/

Help Bozeman Students Build Resilience and Hope Donate Now In Memory of Walker Much loved and dearly missed, Walker J. Nelson was born in Bozeman and attended Longfellow Elementary, Sacajawea Middle School, and graduated from Bozeman High School in 2022. He died by suicide later that year following a long struggle with depression. Walker was a son and brother, a grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend. He took an early interest in the arts, and loved riding bikes, playing video games, and staging epic Nerf and airsoft battles. He found solace in reading and enjoyed travel - an upbringing that will feel familiar to many in our community. Youth Resilience Fund The Walker J. Nelson Youth Resilience Fund empowers ALL Bozeman students with mental health and resilience support - before the crisis hits. Why Now Montana is in the midst of a mental health crisis. The state's youth suicide rate is 3 times the national average and in Bozeman, recent surveys show that nearly 1 in 5 students have seriously considered suicide. This Fund exists to drive change and empower our students with programs that work - right now. Donate Now $135,000 Raised of $188,000 Goal 72% Where Your Gift Goes 1. Youth Resilience Project This community wide initiative empowers Bozeman's network of coaches, mentors, youth leaders, and trusted adults with resources, training, and a shared framework to build resilience, foster belonging, and reduce stigma around mental health support 2. Capacity Building Expand BSD7 staff capacity to deliver more in-school, student-centered mental health and wellness programming, and to strengthen community engagement 3. Community Training Expert-designed, accessible lay-person training, available on-demand for trusted adults Practical sample programming and skill-building exercises that integrate easily into existing practices, rehearsals, meetings, and training schedules Impact & Goals Year 1 Impact Raised over $35,000 from community gifts Participated in the School District's Student Safety and Well-Being Working Group Helped shape the School District's goal to reduce anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation to below national averages Current Campaign We are raising $188,000 to focus on investing in a future where every student feels seen, supported, and capable of thriving. By expanding mental‑health staffing, launching the Youth Resilience Project in every school, and empowering trusted adults across the community with proven training, we’re building a culture of connection and strength - one that helps every young person rise with confidence and hope. How Your Gift Helps $50 Provides in-school, peer ambassador materials $150 Supports training for one trusted adult (coach, teacher, mentor, youth leader) $500 Helps fund community events on mental health, resilience, and available resources $1,000 Funds a Student Ambassador Wellness scholarship at Montana State University Why We Believe in this Mission Montana State University Dean of Students Matthew Caires I am fortunate to work for Montana State University, a higher education institution that cares about the mental health and wellbeing of our students. And I am committed to bridging the work we’re doing at MSU with our local partners in the Bozeman school district. As a community member and as a father of two young children growing up in Bozeman, this work is deeply personal to me. I am a strong advocate of the Youth Resiliency Program underway through the Bozeman Schools Foundation. Walker's Father Erik Nelson The Youth Resilience Project, through the Bozeman Schools Foundation, is the kind of investment that can truly make a difference in the crisis our youth are facing with mental health. It's an essential upstream effort that bridges the gap—the same gap my child fell into—between compassion and real, preventative support. My hope is this initiative will turn our collective heartbreak into tangible action, ensuring every student can navigate life's challenges not just to survive the storms, but to find the strength to thrive. Bozeman Children's Theatre Executive Director Patrick Higgins We’ve worked with so many students over the years, and watched them grow from our elementary students, to middle schoolers, and now high schoolers. It was a natural step for us to grow with them and add a mental health component to tie in the magic of theatre and what it can do for social and emotional well being. The Youth Resilience Project opened the door for us to start these conversations with our cast and crews. Frequently asked questions How is the Youth Resilience Fund managed? The Youth Resilience Fund is hosted by the Bozeman Schools Foundation, a 501(c)(3), with oversight structure. Do funds stay local? Is my gift tax-deductible? How will you measure impact?