The Olentangy Education Foundation (OEF), an educational foundation supporting enhanced experiences for students across all Olentangy schools, announced it has awarded a record number of educator grants for the next school year.

During the Olentangy Board of Education meeting on June 1, 2026, OEF Board of Trustees President Julie Wagner-Feasel and Vice President Felita Moran shared that 27 grant applications were approved for the upcoming 2026-27 grant year. The funding, which totals $85,000, is a record amount for OEF and spans more than two-thirds of the schools in the district.

“From arts initiatives to STEM, the applications from educators across our district were focused on providing students with innovative learning opportunities, no matter the age or building,” said Mary Lorenz, OEF Executive Director. “We’re proud to continue supporting this exciting work and inspiring students to build their futures.”

OEF, an independent, nonprofit organization, provides grants that fill the gap left from public funding. It collects charitable contributions from donors and partners to fund enhanced educational experiences for all students.

“I’m really appreciative as a parent, that you can provide experiences that otherwise wouldn’t be available to our kids,” said Board Member Lizette Schreiber during the meeting.

Watch the presentation to the school board here.

OEF is asking the community to pitch in to allow them to support more enhanced learning across the district by attending its largest fundraiser of the year. Zoolentangy will take place Friday, August 14, 2026, at 6:00 pm at the Columbus Zoo Africa Events Center and will include up close animal feedings, grant highlights, and much more. Sponsorships are still available. Learn more here.