QPS Foundation Facilitates Fund to Support Newly Hired Elementary Teachers
The Quincy Public Schools Foundation is announcing the launch of a new initiative aimed at supporting newly hired elementary school teachers. Through the generosity of local donors Kim & Kathy Humphry, each new K–5 classroom general education teacher in Quincy Public Schools’ elementary schools will receive a $250 grant to help with the costs of setting up their classrooms.
Starting in the 2025–2026 school year, this fund will provide direct financial assistance to educators as they prepare their classrooms for incoming students—covering expenses such as supplies, materials, decorations, and other essentials needed to create a welcoming and effective learning environment.
“This initiative is about more than just financial support,” said Heidi Lanier, executive director of the QPS Foundation. “It’s a message to our new teachers that they are valued, supported, and welcomed into the QPS community from day one.”
The program is made possible by Kim & Kathy Humphry who recognize the challenges new educators often face and want to ease their transition into the classroom. Kathy spent her career as an educator at Dewey and Iles Elementary Schools.
“As a former elementary school teacher, I have seen the need for those just starting out. Starting a new role in education is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming—especially when trying to furnish and supply a classroom,” said Kathy Humphry. “We wanted to help our new elementary teachers and make sure they have the supplies they need to get their classroom started.”
“Making this donation was an easy decision for us. It’s a way to make a real difference in our community while also making the most of every dollar through smart tax planning,” said Kim Humphry. “Knowing our contribution supports local students and makes financial sense is a win-win we’re happy to be part of.”
The Humphry’s have been generous supporters of the Quincy Public School District. Prior to creating this new teacher initiative, the Humphry ran a program called Firewood for Schools. The Firewood for Schools Program provided firewood to those in the community in exchange for a donation to QPS. The Humphry’s are in their last year of this program.
The Quincy Public Schools Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the educational experience for students and teachers across the district. In addition to initiatives like this one, the Foundation supports classroom grants, student enrichment, staff development, and district-wide innovation.
Newly hired teachers eligible for the grant include those entering K–5 general education classroom positions at schools who are new to QPS or transitioning from another grade-level school within the district. Teachers transferring between QPS elementary schools are not eligible nor are teachers with less than 15 students in their classrooms.
