Irvine schools receive nearly $200,000 for classroom innovation

A new student-run news broadcast, a more inclusive recess experience and a district-wide academic competition are among the programs that will soon take shape in Irvine schools, thanks to $198,000 in grants from the Irvine Public Schools Foundation.

The 2025 Innovative Grants Program, awarded to 12 new and five continuing projects, will fund programs and tools designed to make learning more engaging. 

At Canyon View Elementary, recess will include new adaptive equipment and cooperative games to ensure students of all abilities can participate. At Portola Springs Elementary, students will produce and stream their own news broadcasts, giving them hands-on experience in journalism and digital media. Irvine High will introduce an academic competition to bring students from across the district together to test their knowledge, with Quiz Bowl serving as the cornerstone of the event.

“We are proud to support the educators who are leading the charge in reimagining education,” says Neda Eaton, IPSF’s president and CEO. “These grants provide opportunities to bring innovative ideas to life, ensuring that our students are well-equipped for the challenges of tomorrow. We are grateful for the generous support of our community, which makes these transformative projects possible.”

Since 1996, IPSF has provided more than $2.7 million in grants to Irvine schools, funding classroom technology, arts programs and STEM education. This year’s projects are supported by donations from parents, local businesses and community organizations.

Portola Springs Elementary School will produce a student-run news broadcast with its IPSF grant.

  • Behind the dynasty

    Forget track spikes and starting pistols. At Sierra Vista Middle School, the most fiercely contested sport on campus is played …

  • UCI professor changed emergency medicine

    Kyriacos A. Athanasiou sometimes struggled to not fall asleep while sitting in class during early-morning rounds at the University of …

  • Irvine’s amazing grads

    Irvine’s vision to create a “City of Intellect” is highlighted again this year with the class of 2026 showing off …

  • Q&A: Early success for concertmaster

    At age 13, Owen Lo is already a familiar face on the stage of Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. …