Bismarck Public Schools Foundation reports asset growth, grants and new fine-arts endowment

Vice President Danelle Presky and the school board welcomed leaders of the Bismarck Public Schools Foundation on July 13 as the foundation presented its annual impact report.

"Thanks to our generous donors, 98 of every dollar raised directly benefits BPS students and staff," said Talia Nygaard, the foundation's development director, summarizing the group's financial stewardship and programs. Nygaard told the board the foundation awarded more than $126,000 in grants and $73,000 in scholarships in the last year and highlighted targeted initiatives such as meal-debt assistance and "Fill the Bus."

Stacy Lang, identified in the presentation as the foundation's board president, praised staff and donors for sustaining the organization's work supporting classrooms and student recognition programs. "Whether providing cold-weather gear, school supplies, or expanded scholarship opportunities, the BPS Foundation remains committed to supporting our students," Lang said.

Rick Gelof, a long-serving foundation member introduced by the board, noted the foundation's reported asset growth, stating assets rose from 5,900,000 in 2023 to 8,100,000 in 2026. Gelof and other board members urged the community to use the foundation's funds and highlighted programs such as teacher mini-grants and the Student of the Week/Quarter recognitions.

Nygaard announced the creation of a fine-arts endowment that she said will provide roughly $4,000 annually to strengthen the district's arts programming. The foundation also credited local businesses and media partners for fundraising campaigns, citing specific event proceeds and in-kind support.

Board members thanked the foundation team for outreach and stewardship and noted the foundation helps bridge equity gaps and supports teacher resources. The presentation concluded with the board recognizing the foundation's role in community partnerships and student supports.