The Battle Ground Education Foundation (BGEF) will make a meaningful impact on local students thanks to a $25,000 grant from the now-closed Battle Ground Rose Float Committee.
The funding, designated for the Family and Community Resource Center (FCRC) and the Battle Ground High School (BGHS) marching band, was presented to the Battle Ground Public Schools Board during its meeting on Monday, Feb. 10.
The Battle Ground Rose Float Committee had been a part of the Battle Ground community since 1955, representing the area in Portland’s Grand Floral Parade for decades. As the organization slowed operations last year due to a lack of new volunteers, its leaders wanted to give back to the community that had supported them for so many years.
Louise Tucker, a former Battle Ground Rose Float Committee board member, played a key role in ensuring the funds were directed toward student support.
“They just really wanted to be able to give back to the Battle Ground community,” Bullock told The Reflector. “That $25,000 grant was given to the Battle Ground Education Foundation with specific details in mind — half going to the Family and Community Resource Center and the other half to the Battle Ground High School marching band, which had been a longtime partner of the Rose Float parade.”
Funding for the FCRC grant is allocated to provide reliable internet access for students facing financial hardship. The funds will allow the FCRC to supply equipment including mobile hotspots, ensuring that students can complete their schoolwork and stay connected to essential educational resources.
“This ensures kids are able to do their homework, complete assignments and participate in their education from home,” Bullock said.
The need for reliable internet access has been one of the most pressing challenges in the district, particularly for middle and high school students.
“It’s one of the highest unmet needs, especially for students and families experiencing houselessness or financial hardship,” Bullock noted.
The other half of the grant is directed to the BGHS marching band to enhance their musical experience by providing much-needed equipment upgrades.
“The money is going to be allocated to purchase and repair the band's musical instruments, so they can continue marching and participating in events,” Bullock said.
This investment honors the historical connection between the Battle Ground Rose Float Committee and the school’s marching band, which had marched alongside the original rose-covered horse and buggy years ago.
BGeF’s role in supporting students
Established in 1994, the Battle Ground Education Foundation works closely with the school board and district to meet student needs and close funding gaps. Over the past 30 years, the foundation has provided essential programs including the Kids in Need Fund for medical and mental health resources and partnerships with the FCRC to support struggling families.
In 2024, BGEF provided $32,892 in grant dollars to Battle Ground Public Schools. Additionally, the foundation distributed 850 backpacks filled with school supplies and awarded $6,290 in scholarships to students.
BGEF will administer two key scholarships for the 2024-25 school year: the Prairie High School (PHS) Grace Wetter Scholarship (details to be announced in April) and the $5,000 PHS Science Scholarship, funded by 1998 PHS graduate Dr. Gene Quinn. The nonprofit is gearing up for the annual Destination Graduation auction in October to raise funds for scholarships.
The foundation’s upcoming initiatives include expanding scholarship opportunities for graduating seniors pursuing higher education and continuing their Stuff the Bus program, which collects school supplies, backpacks and hygiene products for students in need.
For Bullock and the Battle Ground Education Foundation, the $25,000 grant represents more than just financial support — it’s a testament to the power of community collaboration.
“It just means that we can continue to do what we do and really support every student within the Battle Ground Public School system,” Bullock said.
The foundation continues to seek support from community members and local businesses. Those interested in learning more or donating can visit BGEF.org.
