Difference
Snack Cabinets
A Small Gesture, A Powerful Message
Coffee, Connection, and Community
The Young Adult Program Coffee Cart
Enhancing InnovationsAcademic
Classroom Wishes Do Come True
Dear Friends & Supporters,
Communities aren’t great by chance.
They’re built through intentional care, consistent support, and the collective effort of people who believe in something bigger than themselves. As I reflect on this past year at the Millard Public Schools Foundation, I’m filled with gratitude for each of you who have partnered with us in making a difference in Millard
This year brought both celebrations and transitions. We awarded over $160,000 in scholarship funding to 88 deserving Millard seniors, investing directly in bright futures that will shape our community for generations to come. Many of these scholarships, like the Frank Perrone Scholarship, carry profound meaning, as they honor legacies while creating new opportunities—a beautiful fullcircle moment that exemplifies why we do this work.
Our signature events brought the community together in meaningful ways. From our tropical “Mele Kalikimaka”-themed Jingle 2024 where guests granted wishes for schools and supported families in need, to our Women’s Giving Circle that funded a poster printer for Central Middle School, to our business partners showing up on the golf course, each gathering transformed connection into impact.
Behind these successes are dedicated people like our four retiring Spark site directors, whose combined century of service has shaped the lives of thousands of Millard children. As they pass the torch, we’re equally proud of rising leaders like Sam Fugit, who has come full circle from Spark child to director trainee, and the six site directors who brought back fresh inspiration from the NAA25 Conference in Nashville.
Our Caring Closet continued its quiet but vital work, responding to urgent needs within 24 hours. Since September, we’ve fulfilled 28 requests for essential personal items—meeting students where they are with dignity and compassion.
The Millard Public Schools Foundation is our greatest partner. They elevate the Millard experience for students and families in so many ways. The Foundation gives more than $1 million dollars to the district every year, providing enriched educational opportunities, additional academic support, and technology. Millard would not be a one-to-one district, with a digital device for every student and teacher, without the Foundation. From the Spark before-and-after childcare program in every elementary school to the scholarship opportunities for seniors, families know and appreciate the Foundation. They are truly the bedrock of our district.
These achievements don’t happen by chance. They happen because you believe, as we do, that every child deserves champions. Your donations, volunteerism, and advocacy have created a foundation of support that enables Millard students to thrive.
As we look to the future, we remain committed to filling gaps, building connections, and ensuring every Millard student has the foundation for success. With your continued partnership, we’ll keep making a difference in Millard—not by chance, but by choice.
With deepest gratitude,
Carlos Castillo Chief Executive Officer | Millard Public Schools Foundation
Dr. John Schwartz, Superintendent Millard Public Schools
Snack Cabinets
A Small Gesture, A Powerful Message
Sometimes, the smallest things make the biggest difference. In partnership with Millard Public Schools, the Millard Public Schools Foundation launched the Snack Cabinet Initiative—a project designed to uplift and support staff in schools where the need is greatest. In total, this initiative reaches more than 400 educators.
With an annual investment of $6,000, made possible entirely through generous donor support, this initiative is not just about snacks. It’s about equity, morale, and recognition.
With guidance from the district and funding from our donors, the Foundation is proud to provide real-time, hands-on support to the educators who pour so much into their schools. The Snack Cabinet may be a small gesture, but it’s filled with care, gratitude, and real impact.
Thank you for making this possible. Together, we’re lifting up those who lift up our students.
Educators in these schools tell us the snack cabinets are more than just appreciated—they’re essential:
“We are incredibly grateful for this special treat. It means a lot that our hard work is noticed and appreciated. Our staff loves the snack cabinet—it has been a huge hit!”
“It is literally the highlight of their day! Staff have an extra bounce in their step and just seem a little bit happier. We love it all! Wow! THANK YOU! Your donation really does brighten staff’s day!”
The Young Adult Program Coffee Cart
Coffee, Connection, and Community
Sometimes the best ideas come from simple conversations. A school staff member casually suggested, “Wouldn’t it be wonderful to have a coffee cart visit as a way to show appreciation to our teachers?” We loved the idea. But we didn’t stop there—we saw an opportunity to make an even greater impact.
We recognized a meaningful opportunity to partner with the Millard Young Adult Program (YAP), an initiative that embodies our commitment to supporting every student’s journey toward independence and success. YAP provides essential transition services to young adults ages 18 to 21 who qualify for special education services, ensuring that learning doesn’t end at graduation but continues in purposeful, life-changing ways. Through its primary focus on vocational development and independent living skills, with functional academics woven into meaningful, real-life applications, YAP represents exactly the kind of program that makes a difference in Millard—preparing our young adults not just for jobs, but for fulfilling, independent lives in our community.
How it works: Students from YAP visit Millard schools with a fully equipped coffee cart. They prepare and serve fresh coffee, greet staff with warmth, and even offer handmade items they’ve created in class for
“The coffee cart has had an incredible impact on our students this year, offering so much more than just a chance to serve drinks. It’s become a meaningful, hands-on learning experience that teaches valuable life and job skills in a real-world context. Through this project, our students have learned the importance of planning and preparation, from organizing supplies to managing inventory and scheduling. They’ve practiced collaboration by working as a team, dividing tasks, communicating with one another, and supporting each other in their roles.”
a suggested donation. The Millard Public Schools Foundation proudly covers the cost of coffee for all school staff, so every cup served is a gift of appreciation.
Each cup is more than a caffeine boost—it’s a moment of connection, gratitude, and inclusion.
In the 2024–2025 school year, we hosted 23 coffee cart events, distributing over 1,500 free coffee vouchers across the district. And while the cost of the project is modest, its impact is immeasurable.
This initiative is about more than coffee. It’s about giving young adults the chance to practice real-life skills in a supported, meaningful environment. It’s about showing teachers and staff they are seen, valued, and celebrated. It’s about building a community where everyone contributes and everyone belongs.
“This is more than just a cup of coffee—it’s a reminder that we’re all in this together.”
Thanks to our generous donors, what started as a suggestion has grown into something beautiful—a new Millard tradition rooted in kindness, empowerment, and connection. Thank you for making it possible. We can’t wait to serve more smiles next year.
Tricia Gillett Principal Millard Young Adult Program
Coffee Cart Visit at Norris Elementary School
Katie Holt Principal, Sandoz Elementary School
Laura Malcom Principal, Rockwell Elementary School
Classroom Wishes Empowering Schools
This year, thanks to your incredible generosity, 34 school wishes were filled each one tailored to meet a real need and bring joy, comfort, or enrichment to students and staff across Millard Public Schools.
Together with the support of individual donors and community partners, we raised and invested over $28,000 to bring these meaningful projects to life.
From classroom library updates and staff lounge makeovers to snack cabinets, STEM enrichment, and inclusive learning tools, these wishes have already made a tangible difference.
Many of this year’s wishes focused on showing appreciation to our dedicated educators through staff meals, personalized recognition, and relaxing spaces for recharging. Others directly enhanced student experiences by making learning more engaging, inclusive, and joyful.
Your support has empowered schools to dream bigger, and together we’ve turned those dreams into reality.
Thank you for making a difference!
“The kids have thoroughly enjoyed fresh reading materials and are often choosing a reading option vs. iPad because there are so many new and exciting adventures in these books.”
Erin Graft-Gonzalez, Principal, Harvey Oaks Elementary
Classroom Innovation Grants
Curiosity in the Classroom
Every great learning moment begins with a spark—an idea that dares to do things differently, that puts students at the center, and that invites curiosity into the classroom. Through our Classroom Innovation Grant Program, we help educators bring those sparks to life.
These one-time grants—up to $5,000 each—fund creative, high-impact classroom projects that fall outside the district’s regular budget Each project must be led by a certified educator and directly benefit students in the classroom.
“We are very thankful for our wish list being supported!”
Michelle Klug, Principal, Central Middle School
“We’re excited to kick off Rudy’s Snack Shack! This incredible resource supports students whose families may not always have the means to provide snacks consistently.”
Laura Malcom Principal, Rockwell Elementary
“The staff at Ezra has really loved the updated space. Thank you so much to our donor!”
Charlene Schuchardt Principal, Ezra Elementary
This year, we received 24 applications from 10 schools, representing an inspiring range of ideas.
The Classroom Innovation Grant is more than just funding—it’s a vote of confidence in our teachers and an investment in the future of learning. We are proud to support educators who explore new paths and believe deeply in what’s possible.
Thank you to all who applied, evaluated, supported, and dreamed with us.
Two incredible projects rose to the top and will be implemented during the 2025–2026 school year:
STEM Bins
Sara Loberg, Central Middle School
A rotating makerspace filled with drones, coding tools, and engineering materials designed to spark innovation in students across grades 6–8. More than 360 students will benefit from hands-on, minds-on STEM learning.
STEM Laboratory = Fun + Learning
Heather Boucher, Upchurch Elementary
A brand-new elementary STEM lab equipped with realworld tools and models to transform science instruction for all 400 students in the school.
The Caring Closet
Quiet Help, Big Impact
At the heart of our community support efforts is The Caring Closet—a discreet, responsive program that works closely with school counselors and social workers to meet the urgent personal needs of Millard students.
We do not provide clothing, school supplies, or shoes. Instead, our focus is on supplying items that are often overlooked but absolutely essential: personal hygiene products, cleaning supplies, and occasionally unique requests like alarm clocks.
All requests are submitted by trusted school staff, and we strive to fill them within 24 hours. Whether the request comes in the morning or afternoon, we aim to have it packed and ready for pickup the same day or delivered directly to the school if needed. The average cost per request is around $50-$60.
Since September 2024, we’ve fulfilled 28 requests.
These are the moments that define our mission. The Caring Closet exists to fill the gaps—quietly, quickly, and compassionately.
Thank you to everyone who supports this vital work. Together, we are making sure no student goes without.
A school social worker once contacted us about a student, a young girl living alone without guardians. She continued attending school and doing her best but needed hygiene supplies. We were honored to help.
Another family lost everything in an apartment fire. Their school contacted us, and we were able to provide essential supplies within hours.
Scholarships
Essential Investment in Tomorrow’s Leaders
Miles “Mo” Blair
Scholarships Received: Nancy Anderson Memorial Scholarship and Harold Helme Memorial Scholarship
What this scholarship means to you: To me, this scholarship signifies the support of others who wish to see me succeed. I want to change the world, and the way I wish to do it is by no small means. To be graciously given the scholarships have received gives me the ability to expand my horizons and broaden the places can attend.
While am of [the] firm belief that regardless of where I go I will flourish, it has been by the support of organizations such as the Millard Public Schools Foundation that has started me on the path towards my goal. Additionally, being able to attend three separate Millard Schools has given me the ability to meet many amazing people, from mentors to peers to role models, I am truly indebted to the Millard community. These scholarships show me that my connections to the Millard family have made will continue to prosper throughout my life.
At the heart of our educational support initiatives is our scholarship program—a long-standing tradition at Millard Public Schools Foundation that quietly yet powerfully invests in Millard’s graduating seniors.
We do not simply distribute funds; we deliberately connect deserving students with opportunities that align with their unique talents and aspirations. With nearly 100 scholarships available exclusively to Millard graduating seniors we work closely with schools, booster clubs, and private funders to cultivate tomorrow’s leaders.
Since May 2024, we’ve awarded 88 Millard seniors with over $160,000 in scholarship funding.
These are the investments that define our mission. Many of our privately funded scholarships exist to honor the memory of past Millard students—creating legacies that continue to inspire.
The Frank Perrone Scholarship exemplifies this purpose. Frank discovered his passions at Millard South High School through debate, theater, and swimming. An
alumnus of Ackerman Elementary, Bryan Elementary, and Millard Andersen Middle School, Frank carried his debate enthusiasm through college, mentoring younger students along the way.
After graduating from Midland University, his acceptance to Creighton Law School marked the next step in his promising journey.
Tragically, Frank passed away in 2020 due to an undetected brain tumor. However, his kindness, work ethic, and dedication created a lasting impact. His scholarship now exists to fill the gap—thoughtfully, meaningfully, and compassionately—by supporting students who share his love of learning and commitment to making a difference.
Thank you to everyone who contributes to this vital work. Together, we ensure bright futures continue to flourish.
Frank Perrone
Fundraising Events Creating Connections That Matter
At the Millard Public Schools Foundation, we bring our community together not just to raise funds but to create meaningful experiences that directly impact our students. This year, our signature events offered diverse ways for supporters to make a difference while strengthening the bonds that make Millard special.
Golf Tournament
Business Community Steps Up
On the greens and fairways, our business partners showed their commitment to Millard students and staff through our annual golf tournament
This popular event brought companies and individuals together for a day of friendly competition that translates directly into support for our greatest needs. Every swing, putt, and sponsorship helps us respond quickly to the evolving needs of our schools.
Thank you to every participant, volunteer, and sponsor who made these events possible. When Millard comes together, our students and staff win!
Women’s Giving Circle Collective Power
In March 2025, the women of Millard showed that together, we can do more!
Our Women’s Giving Circle gathering brought passionate supporters together to pool their donations and vote on a project with immediate impact. This year’s choice—a poster printer for Central Middle School—will serve countless students and teachers in their creative and educational endeavors while helping build a stronger school community. The school will print posters in its top five languages—English, Spanish, Arabic, Vietnamese, and French—ensuring important information reaches every family.
This wasn’t just about funding—it was about women empowering education.
Jingle Holiday Spirit With Purpose
We did it again! Our “Mele Kalikimaka”-themed Jingle 2024 brought the warmth of the islands to a sold-out crowd eager to support Millard Public Schools.
Thanks to our generous donors, sponsors, and community partners, we kicked off the holiday season with tremendous impact. Guests granted wishes for schools, donated to our Mission Tree to support Millard families in need, and bid on beautifully decorated trees representing each Millard school—a beautiful reminder of why we gather.
We’re so proud of how this event unites our community year after year, transforming holiday cheer into tangible support for those who need it most.
Community Events Where Millard Comes Together
At the Millard Public Schools Foundation, we believe in building community, not just through programs but through shared experiences. This school year, we proudly hosted two signature events that brought families, children, educators, and supporters together in celebration of connection, learning, and fun.
Night Hike at Schramm
A Beloved Tradition
We did it again! For the third year in a row, our Night Hike at Schramm Education Center invited families to step into nature and enjoy an evening full of discovery and delight.
Thanks to our wonderful partners—Schramm Park & Education Center, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, and 4-H—we welcomed over 300 guests for this one-of-akind experience.
We’re so proud to continue this tradition, and we’re grateful to everyone—the team, partners, and guests— who make it special year after year.
Bingo for Books Our Backyard
Comes Alive
On April 25, we tried something new—and it was a hit!
Our very first Bingo for Books event transformed the Foundation’s backyard into a space of laughter, excitement, and togetherness. We welcomed nearly 300 guests to play bingo, win books, enjoy Spark Adventure quests, snack on hot dogs and chips, and shop at the Scholastic book fair.
This wasn’t just about games—it was about community.
Thank you to every volunteer, partner, and guest who joined us. Seeing kids excited about reading is our biggest win.
New-Teacher Welcome Gift Building Excellence Through First Impressions
Great communities don’t welcome new educators by chance—and thanks to your generous support, the Millard Public Schools Foundation ensured that every new teacher joining our family this year felt truly valued from day one.
Your partnership made it possible for us to provide essential school supplies to each new staff member, giving them the tools they need to hit the ground running in their new classroom. These aren’t just welcome gifts; they’re investments in the educators who will shape young minds throughout our district.
When new teachers receive these carefully selected supplies, they experience firsthand the community support that makes Millard special. It’s a tangible reminder that they’re not just employees—they’re valued members of an educational family that believes in their success.
Making a difference in Millard isn’t just our slogan—it’s what happens when new educators feel supported, equipped, and celebrated as they begin their journeys with us. Through your generosity, we’re not only welcoming teachers but building the foundation for educational excellence that will benefit Millard students for years to come.
With your continued partnership, we look forward to supporting every new educator who chooses to make Millard home. Together, we’re building a community where great teaching thrives—not by chance, but through purposeful care and investment in those who serve our students.
Spark Summer Program
A Season of Enrichment & Fun
Our Spark Summer Program welcomed young explorers to experience activities designed to enrich, excite, and challenge them throughout the summer months. The comprehensive program blended STEAM learning (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) with planned gross motor activities, literacy development, skill building, and wellness initiatives. Every activity was crafted to be fun, interactive, and intentional, ensuring children enjoyed meaningful learning opportunities while maintaining the free choice experiences they loved.
Spark Adventure Program Hands-On Learning,
Lasting Memories
Our Spark Adventure Camps offered weeklong, partial-day summer experiences focused on STEAM learning designed to maximize fun, foster growth, and create lasting friendships among incoming 1st through 6th graders. Families could choose from 16 different camp options, each tailored to spark curiosity and hands-on learning. The camps culminated each Friday with a special showcase where family and friends joined campers for the final half hour to witness presentations of their creations, learn alongside the children as they taught newly acquired skills, and celebrate the adventures experienced throughout the week. These dynamic camps successfully combined education with excitement, creating memorable summer experiences that built both knowledge and community connections.
“I love Spark Up because it gives a fun, safe and growing place for my kiddo all summer.”
Spark Up Epic Summer Fun
“The reason we choose the summer Spark program is because there is always something different for them to do!”
Wortman Spark parent
Spark participants enjoyed weekly field trips both on-site and off-site, expanding their horizons beyond the classroom. Children participated in our summer reading program, discovered new authors through our weekly illustrator spotlight, and had access to technology that enhanced their learning experience. At Spark, we believe learning should be fun, and every element of our program reflected that commitment to joyful education.
“We are always looking for opportunities for our son to explore his interests, so Block Builders spoke directly to our son’s love of Lego!
The small class size allowed our son the space to create and learn while also making a few new friends. He looked forward to going to class each day and was excited to show us what he made throughout the week. The photo album documenting his creations was icing on the cake of a fun week!”
Megan Spark parent
Spark Up is our exclusive summer program designed specifically for incoming 5th and 6th graders, offering an epic summer experience packed with engaging activities. The program featured creative adventures, technology challenges, and awesome outdoor games that kept participants active and excited. Students enjoyed relaxing time with friends in the Nest and looked forward to our weekly Ice Cream Fridays tradition. Each week, participants ventured out to explore the community’s most unique sites and participated in hands-on activities that stretched their minds and engaged their creative sides. Spark Up successfully provided older elementary students with ageappropriate challenges and social opportunities that bridged the gap between childhood play and more mature learning experiences.
Meridith
Brier Jirka Barr Spark Up Parent
