Our History

In 1985 the three public school corporations in the county (Lafayette School Corporation, Tippecanoe School Corporation and West Lafayette Community School Corporation) began talks about forming a not-for-profit organization that could raise private funds for public school teachers.  The Public Schools Foundation of Tippecanoe County, Inc. was formed later that same year, and the creation of our Seeds for Excellence grant program soon followed.  In 1987, the first teacher grants were awarded.  Since that time, more than $480,000 has been awarded to local educators.  Hundreds of teachers have been inspired by the opportunity and resources we provide, and thousands of students and their families have benefited from projects funded by PSFTC. 

We rely on finacial support from individuals and businesses in the Greater Lafayette community.  We also host special events designed to bring the community together in support of public education.  In addition, we receive a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the Indiana Education (Garfield) license plate. 

Our Grant Program

There are three grant opportunties available during the current cycle.

Seeds for Excellence Grants - This is our traditional grant program and is open to all K-12 teachers, counselors and principals in the three public school corporations in the county.  The deadline for application is January 22, 2010.  Grants are awarded on a competitive basis, and awards will be made in the spring for use during the 2010-11 school year.

Professional Development Grants - A separate opportunity for professional development projects is available.  A maximum of $2,000 will be awarded per project. 

Fast Trak Grants - This is a new program in conjunction with www.DonorsChoose.org.  It's an opportunity for Tippecanoe County K-12 public school teachers to apply for a classroom grant via DonorsChoose.org and get half the funding from one source (PSFTC).  Fast Trak grants will be awarded at various times throughout the current school year as full funding is reached.