Performance and Visual Arts

Fully administered by the Foundation, including instructor salary and benefits, Bobcat Strings is a core program of the Foundation. This enrichment is additional to the District standard music curriculum. The Foundation offers scholarships for students in Grades 1-5 who may opt-in to participate on a donation optional basis. All Kindergarten students receive complimentary violin lessons weekly.

Providing for a full-time art teacher on campus, the Foundation covers the days beyond what is allotted by the District. In doing so, we afford students the benefit of additional experience and the school an opportunity to better retain talent in this position. Through art education, students can explore various mediums and learn about their cultural and historical influences, as well as develop motor skills and engage in creative thinking.

Extended Learning

The Foundation seeks to support academic excellence at Mitchell Elementary by providing funding for an Extended Learning Program (ELP). Funding of ELP allows our students to reach their full potential by providing access to additional learning opportunities. These opportunities may be before, during, or after the normal school day and instruction is given by a certified teacher. Students make the largest learning gains when we are able to strategically focus on small group instruction.

Data indicates, when adequately funded, this program has a direct correlation to a rise in points used in measurement for school grading. Thanks to the generous support of our sponsors and donors, the Foundation will help ensure the ELP budget will meet these funding requirements, and we will be able to reach more students through the provision of targeted instruction necessary to help these students meet their goals.  

Technology

The Foundation supplies technological devices to the school to ensure Mitchell is able to achieve the 1:1 device ratio necessary for many grade levels. Smart boards, interactive display panels, and document cameras equip teachers with better technology in each classroom. Computer lab upgrades provide advancements to media center resources and promote an optimal testing environment.

Capital Improvement

The Foundation continually supports capital improvements to the Mitchell Elementary school campus promoting the health and safety of our students. Projects have included perimeter gate and fencing, covered court and fans, playground shade covering, landscaping, water refill station, track, picnic tables, benches, and turf. Most recently, a permanent awning has been built covering the carline and Gomez street entrance keeping students and faculty protected against inclement weather. Planning is underway for an outdoor classroom for teachers and students to take learning beyond the classroom. Slated for completion in Summer 2024, this “Learning Garden” project is dependent on funds raised in the current school year. Should you be interested in supporting this effort, please consider a sponsorship or donation today.