The Grants Committee

Tam High Foundation Grant Process

The Tam High Foundation (THF) has a Grants Subcommittee consisting of two co-chairs.  Most of the money raised by the Foundation is distributed to Tam High through teacher-initiated grants funded by the THF Board.  The goal of the grants process is to reach beyond the district budget and fund grants that have as broad an impact as possible, enhance the learning environment, allow the staff to reach their potential as teachers and allow the students to reach their potential as learners. 

There are two grant cycles per year, fall mini grants ($10,000 and under) and spring major grants (over $10,000).  Traditionally, the number of mini grants far exceeds the number of major grants.  The staff submits their proposals and each staff member must present to the Grants Committee, which is made up of parents, THF leadership and some students.  Thereafter, the Grants Co-chairs meet with the Senior Director of Technology for the District and Tam’s onsite Technology Manager.  These staff members review all the grants involving technology and make recommendations to the Grants Committee about the requests.  The Grants Co-chairs and THF leadership also meet with the Tam Principal and review all the grants, including the recommendations from the District’s Technology staff.  The Grants Committee reconvenes and goes over all the grants in light of the presentations and the information gathered from the Principal and the Technology staff.  The Grants Committee then votes on each grant and makes recommendations to the THF Board.  The THF Board then takes final action on the grant funding.  This process is the same for both the mini and major grants.

The Tam High community is very fortunate to have such a dedicated staff that continues to innovate and create new learning programs and opportunities for all students. The THF appreciates the staff taking the time to research and submit proposals that are both innovative and practical. 

Some examples of recent approved grants include:

Technology: Laptops, document cameras, digital cameras, projectors and more!

• Over $65,000 invested in six departments
• Equipment and support for AIM, English, Science, World Languages, Math, and Fine Arts
• Classroom 20/20 multimedia training, textbooks and cameras
• Auto Engineering tire installation equipment

Guest Artists: Tam students learn from real world professionals

• Street Law – Defense lawyer guest lecturer
• Art & Ceramics – Professional artists share their craft
• Drama – Artists focus on career options
• English – Senior Essay classes welcome professional writers and sophomore English classes learn from poets and curriculum supporting artists

Across Campus – Programs and projects that impact all students

• PE Equipment – Updated and replacement equipment for all sections
• Camp Everytown – Community building training
• Guest Lecturer Denise Pope – School wide assembly and staff training 11/10/09
• Organic Garden improvements
• Library – Digital Video cameras for student use

Parent Campaign

The Annual Parent Campaign is a year long fundraising drive to provide academic support and enhance the quality of education at Tam. Although we suggest a $500 donation per student any gift of financial support, no matter the dollar amount is needed and greatly appreciated. 

Here is how you can help-
1. Return the donation envelope in your First Day Packet
2. Take our call during the Fall Phone-a-Thon
3. Or, respond to one of our many email blasts, reminder articles in Tam High Family Newsletter or Spring Letter Campaign