Funding the spark that ignites learning.
Schools across the Foothills School Division, including those in Okotoks, will receive a boost in grant funding this year.
The Friends of Foothills Schools Foundation (FFSF) has announced its 2026 SPARK Grant Program, which offers funding to support innovative, student-focused projects across the division, will provide $15,000 in total funding this year, up $4,000 from 2025.
FFSF’s SPARK, which stands for Supporting Resources And Knowledge, provides grants of up to $2,500 to projects of all sizes for local schools, School Councils, and student groups.
Last year, the SPARK Grant Program helped deliver $11,000 to student-focused projects across the Foothills School division, including a rural band equity initiative at École Okotoks Junior High and a Skiing at Castle Mountain project that provided fully funded spaces to Spitzee Elementary students from lower-income families.
Eligible applicants include all from School Councils to teachers and school-based staff, Foothills School Division staff, and student groups sponsored by a staff member or School Council.
Applications are assessed against the foundation’s four strategic priorities: Enhanced Learning Opportunities, Equity in Education, Empower Communities, and Innovative and Sustainable Growth.
Applications for the 2026 SPARK Grant Program are now open and will be accepted through Oct. 31 at 11:59 p.m. For more information, visit the FFSF’s SPARK Grants webpage here.
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