The donation, presented by Steve Muck, board chairman and CEO of Brayman and foundation president, was the largest donation the foundation has received through the state’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program.
“The foundation was created to augment local tax funding to support the expansion of the education program,” said Muck. “Oftentimes, the district is unable to fund various programs so the foundation was created to support academics, STEM and arts. As an employer, I’m passionate about improving the educational environment in the South Butler school system. I’m convinced that tax revenue alone will not create a world-class school system and the business community needs to be involved.”
The district has allocated $20,000 for the project and the foundation is hoping to raise at least $40,000 in its annual matching fund drive.
“Some of the money could be used to convert the Knoch Senior High School library into a Learning Center that would have small rooms for studying, a meeting area, electronic charging stations, easy-to-move furniture, a coffee shop and other space for students to work,” said Muck.
“We’re definitely interested in developing the future work force in South Butler County. We want to create opportunities to keep our young people in the community in which they grew up if that’s what they wish to do.”