Mount Vernon Middle School is a 2025 Casey’s Cash for Classrooms grant recipient. The school will receive $9,935 to revitalize the Middle School Recess equipment.

This project will help all students at the school by making much-needed improvements to the recess area possible.

“The money will help improve the current playground both by replacing and repairing equipment,” said Mount Vernon middle school principal Bob Haugse. “Students love to play GAGA Ball and the other new additions, such as the 9 Square game, will give students more options at recess.”

“We are grateful for this support for our students,”

Mount Vernon Community School District Foundation executive director, Amie Roberts added. “These enhancements are intended to grow with our students and district. This renovation will support students now and in the years to come. Casey’s is a great community partner that gives back to many schools across its footprint, including ours, through this program.”

“Through Casey’s Cash for Classrooms program, our grants are providing meaningful impact, helping create better learning environments and improving the lives of children and educators. Casey’s is grateful to be in a position to provide support for our communities and the schools and families, who work tirelessly to prepare our next generation of leaders,” said Katie Petru, director of PR and Communications at Casey’s.

Casey’s Cash for Classrooms grant was given towards sports equipment (balls, nets, etc.), nine-square, carpet ball, and a shed to store the new equipment out of the elements. The middle school’s parent group is also working to secure more donations towards this amazing project. As the project unfolds, the end goal will involve an updated gaga ball area, fitness pair stations, benches, landscaping to make the area more accessible and useful to all students, and a garden area for students to partake in.

The Middle School recess upgrade is expected to be completed by the beginning of 2025-2026 school year. For more information on Casey’s Cash for Classrooms grant program, visit: www.caseys.com/community/cash-for-classrooms-grants. The 2026 grant program will open in the fall.