Gesa Credit Union Provides Grants To Support RSD Students

An opportunity for Richland School District students to learn from and perform with a professional musical ensemble and one RSD school’s program aimed at nurturing a positive school culture are getting a boost thanks to Gesa Credit Union.

Leona Libby Middle School and William Wiley Elementary are receiving $9,750 from the credit union’s Local Heroes grant program.

Leona Libby’s grant will support a jazz residency program that will be available to its students as well as those at Carmichael and Richland High School. Along with getting to work a professional musical ensemble, the students will perform at a concert at Libby on Jan. 26.

“These type of experiences are what inspire students and show them what options they have for their future,” says Libby music teacher Michael Bryan.

Wiley’s grant will be used for its Positive Behavior Interventions & Supports (PBIS) program. The program, which is used in several RSD schools, recognizes students for demonstrating positive traits such as kindness, responsibility and empathy by providing small prizes or rewards.

“Recognizing students at an assembly and providing them something to remind them of their strong character really goes a long way to reinforcing those positive habits,” says Wiley Principal Paul Chartrand. “This grant means we can continue this program for at least another two years and celebrate our kids.”

The Local Heroes grant program is paid for by contributions from Gesa based on the use of its branded Local Heroes debit cards by customers. Programs, projects, and initiatives that support groups such as firefighters, healthcare workers, law enforcement, teachers, and veterans are eligible to apply for the grants.