By Ashley Sinclair

It is summertime in Forsyth County, but the planning continues for the new school year here at the Kernersville Chamber. The dedication our teachers show to our children is nothing short of being top notch for our kids. Our schools are very supportive of the education and future of our kids and community.

Each year the Kernersville Chamber Education Grants Committee, led by Kim Herman and Pam Link, raise money through private donors as well as our participating member restaurants for the Education Grants program. One hundred percent of the money raised during July, August, and September goes directly to our teachers from all 13 Kernersville schools’ grants of up to $1,000.

Funds for unique educational programs are very limited, and teachers are providing many supplies and materials out of their own pockets. Grants will be provided to suitable projects that add value to the learning experience in a classroom. Where possible, the project should directly benefit both the class and the school.

Grant applications can be found on the Kernersville Chamber of Commerce website: www.kernersvillenc.com/education#Eating. Teachers have the opportunity to write a grant application to fund special projects. The applications are submitted and then read by our Education Grants committee in September. The chosen grants are awarded to the teachers through a Surprise Patrol visit by the Committee members, Board of Education members, and community business leaders.

Thanks to the business and private donors as well as the participating restaurants. Over 1,300 students in 68 classrooms were afforded an additional learning experience through 48 educations grants last year. Projects such as vegetable gardens, sand tables, author visits, unique art opportunities, books, and many other valuable learning opportunities were shared with Kernersville kids from elementary, middle, and high school.

Dates for Eating for Education 2023 (always the second Wednesday):

July 12^th, August 9^th, September 13^th

Participating restaurants this year, Kernersville Locations ONLY: Brother Cluckers, Captain Tom’s Seafood Grill & Bar, Dominos, East Coast Wings, Giada’s Trattoria, Gypsy Road Brewing Company, Mad Greek Grill, Outwest Steakhouse and Saddle Room, Smitty’s Grille, The Prescott, Sixty-Six Grill & Taphouse, The Loop, Zaxby’s, 1-Stop, and more.

When you eat at one of these Kernersville participating restaurants, up to 10% of your bill will go directly back to a local classroom!