Sweet success at annual fundraiser

Not only did attendees receive baskets of candy to take home on May Day, they brought home clearer understandings about the services and programs at Iowa School for the Deaf.

The Iowa School for the Deaf Foundation held its annual scholarship and general fund fundraising event May 1. About 120 donors and friends of ISD attended, and dozens of others who could not attend chose to donate.

Eighth grader Jadaella Jeffrey’s family was honored, and her mother Heidi explained to the audience how Jadaella experienced the best of both worlds- mainstream education and now a school for the deaf. Jadaella participates in numerous school activities. Heidi also explained aspects of Deaf culture.

4PLUS student Payton Martin told the audience how she dealt with learning about her Usher Syndrome diagnosis, and how she has made modifications in her daily activities to ensure she is safe and independent. Payton, who works at Five Below, told the audience of her plans for college and to enter a field where she can make a difference for students who are deaf.

Two students were awarded scholarships made available through 10 separate scholarship sponsors. Jillian Kovacs of Eagle Grove exited the ISD 4PLUS program this May and plans to study phlebotomy at Iowa Central Community College in Fort Dodge. Hannah Kohl, a 2019 graduate of ISD, is a senior at Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. She plans to pursue a master’s degree in mental health or school counseling.

Thank you to the dozens of organizations, companies and individuals who supported our students through the Iowa School for the Deaf Foundation this year!

Want to see your name here next year? Contact cynthia.angeroth@iaedb.org for details.