Story provided by Stillwater Public Schools

The Stillwater based non-profit Mya’s Promise awarded grants to three Stillwater schools. Richmond, Skyline, and Will Rogers Elementary Schools each received an Ed Long grant, totalling $1,350 dollars to the school’s Special Services programs. The funds will help SPS educators purchase equipment, supplies, training and programs to benefit children with a variety of special needs in the district.

Typically the organization only grants one award, but, in light of challenges presented by the pandemic, worked to increase support to help ensure student needs were being met.

“Mya’s Promise serves young children living with special needs and their families,” says Dr. Malinda Webb, the organization’s Treasurer. “It provides educational programs, scholarships, and activities promoting social and personal growth for children, along with support and assistance for parents and siblings.”

The grant was created in 2017 in memory of State Senator, OSU Regent, and original Mya’s Promise Board Member Ed Long, who had a great passion for Early Childhood Education. Mr. Long was moved at how early intervention could help children with special needs make great progress.

In addition to grants for education, Mya’s Promise also works throughout the community and partners with the school district to help with local projects and fundraising. “The student-led philanthropy organization Stillwater Makes a Change resulted in a record $200,000 for the Strickland Park Project, which is progressing nicely toward completion,” said Webb.

“We are so fortunate to have the opportunity to work with Mya’s Promise,” said SPS Director of Special Services Melisa Kifer. “Early intervention is a cornerstone of educational support and critical to the success of so many children. Our teachers feel honored to be selected as grant recipients.”

More information about Mya’s Promise can be found at www.myaspromise.org, while details about SPS Special Services is available at www.stillwaterschools.com