Educational Experience Program
Providing rural students with access to hands-on learning and real-world exploration that deepens their understanding of the world.
Program Purpose
The Valley Telephone Cooperative Foundation (Valley) supports educational and other tax-exempt nonprofit organizations within its service areas to strengthen rural communities. Through the Educational Experience Program, the Foundation funds field trips, STEM activities, and enrichment opportunities that expand learning beyond the classroom and broaden horizons for rural youth.
Award Details
Limit: Up to $5,000 per entity
Eligibility
- Schools, libraries, and youth-serving organizations.
- Must serve students within the Valley TeleCom service area.
- One application per educator per school year.
- Schools may receive multiple awards (one per educator).
Funding Priorities
- STEM Exploration: Activities promoting science and engineering.
- Career Exposure: Experiences introducing future career pathways.
- Cultural Enrichment: Expanding awareness and academic curiosity.
- Outdoor Learning: Connecting students to nature and science.
Eligible Examples
- Field trips to museums or industry sites
- STEM camps and robotics competitions
- Outdoor and environmental science programs
- Guest speakers and hands-on workshops