The Hastings and Prince Edward (HPE) Learning Foundation is proud to announce that the Have You Heard? campaign has reached a major milestone, securing 75% of its $555,000 fundraising goal.
This achievement brings the community significantly closer to outfitting every Junior Kindergarten to Grade 3 classroom in the Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board with life-changing sound field technology.
To date, the campaign has raised over 75% of the $555,000, with the final goal aimed at equipping 255 classrooms to benefit more than 5,000 students every single year.
They issued the following thank you message to their supporters.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Supporters
This progress would not be possible without the incredible generosity of the individuals, local businesses, foundations, and service clubs that have already stepped up. Their early commitment is a testament to the community’s dedication to student equity and success.
“The support we’ve received from our community partners and individual donors has been inspiring,” says Kellie Brace, Executive Director of the HPE Learning Foundation. “We want to sincerely thank everyone who has contributed so far. You are helping us build a foundation where every child can hear their teacher clearly, participate fully, and feel connected in their learning environment.”
The Importance of Audio Clarity
Classrooms are vibrant, active places where clear communication is foundational to learning. However, background sounds—from equipment like HVAC systems to the natural movement of a busy school day—can make it difficult for students to catch every word.
The Challenge: Without amplification, the average student can miss up to 25% of what a teacher says.
The Impact: Research shows that in classrooms with sound fields, which use wireless microphones to distribute a teacher’s voice evenly, students score higher on literacy and comprehension tests.
The Final Push: Help Us Reach 100%
The Learning Foundation is now calling for a final community push to fund the remaining 25% of the project. There are several ways to get involved:
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Donate Directly: Every donation, regardless of size, helps reach the goal. Every $2,200 raised will fully equip one entire classroom.
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Host a Fundraiser: Community members are encouraged to host their own events—such as a BBQ, car wash, or marathon—to help equip their local schools.
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Give In Honour: Recognize the teacher in your life, whether past or present, who has made a difference.
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Spread the Word: Help ensure “Every Voice is Heard” by sharing the campaign’s mission with your network.
“We are on the homestretch,” says Jenn Barrett, Resource Development and Communications Coordinator. “We are inviting the community to help us cross the finish line so that every student from JK to Grade 3 has the tools they need to succeed from day one”.
To donate or learn more, please visit HaveYouHeardHPE.ca.
