How WBEF is Transforming Education in West Bloomfield – West Bloomfield Educational Foundation: WBEF

WEST BLOOMFIELD, MI — The landscape of modern education is shifting, and the West Bloomfield Educational Foundation (WBEF) is at the forefront of this change. With a mission centered on the philosophy of “Education First,” the foundation has become a vital engine for innovation, providing the necessary funding to turn visionary teaching ideas into classroom realities.

Empowering the “Portrait of a Graduate”

The core of WBEF’s impact lies in its commitment to developing the “4 Cs” in every student: Critical Thinking, Communication, Collaboration, and Creativity. By selecting projects that specifically target these skills, the foundation ensures that West Bloomfield students are not just learning facts, but are becoming contributors and problem-solvers.

Record-Breaking Support for Educators

The foundation’s recent grant cycles highlight an incredible trajectory of growth. For the upcoming 2025–2026 school year, the WBEF Grant Committee reviewed 56 applications and selected 46 innovative proposals for funding, totaling an impressive $24,698.68. This follows a consistent history of support, including:

2024–2025: $14,075 distributed across 31 successful proposals.
2023–2024: 57 proposals selected from 88 applications.
2022–2023: A 100% approval rate, with all 46 submitted proposals receiving funding.

Innovation in Action: From STEAM to Student Wellness

WBEF grants touch every corner of the district, from elementary classrooms to the high school level. Some of the transformative projects funded include:

STEAM & Technology: Programs like “Laker STEAM Team,” “Robotics and Coding with iPads,” and “Growing the STEAM Experience” provide students with hands-on technical skills.
Literacy and Inclusion: The “Stories That Spark” and “Project Lit Book Club” initiatives focus on diverse and equitable literature, ensuring all students see themselves reflected in their learning.
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): Recognizing the importance of student well-being, WBEF has funded “Zen Rooms,” “Reset Rooms,” and “Coping Kits” to help students manage stress and focus on learning.

A Community-Driven Future

“Seeing these numbers grow each year represents our unwavering commitment to providing every student and teacher with the innovative resources they need to succeed.” …. “Each dollar raised and grant awarded is a direct investment in the bright future of our West Bloomfield community.”

– WBEF Board Member Kristen Parker.

As the WBEF continues to bridge the gap between traditional budgets and 21st-century needs, one thing is clear: the foundation isn’t just funding projects; it is fueling the future of West Bloomfield education.