Monthly Archives: December 2013

Virginia Cooperative Extension: Latest News & Upcoming Events – December 2013

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VCE LogoThe Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) is offering resources and a host of free or low-cost classes to community members! Learn how to plant a natural garden; check out the Winter Wildlife Festival; access the Piedmont Environmental Council’s Go Native Go Local guide; learn how to prepare for winter weather; stay safe during hunting season; and more! For more information, check out VCE’s Latest News & Upcoming Events.

Piedmont Master Gardener Association Offering $100 to $300 Grants – Deadline Extended to Feb. 21!

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GardeningThe Piedmont Master Gardener (PMG) Association, a volunteer organization within the Virginia Cooperative Extension, is offering grants dedicated exclusively to education related to horticulture and or gardens. The grants will range from $100-300 and may be used to purchase garden related items, not labor. Examples might be books, tools, soil tests, fertilizer, compost, mulch, seeds, plants, or instructional kits. PMG also can help with a Master Gardner if you are in need of some horticulture expertise!

There is a very simple application form to complete for consideration that is due by February 21. View the grant guidelines.

Upcoming Changes to VRS: What You Need To Know

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VRS UpdateTo all employees currently active in the Virginia Retirement System: Beginning January 1, 2014, there will be some significant changes to the Virginia Retirement System (VRS) as the result of legislation approved by the Virginia General Assembly and signed by the Governor. All new VRS-eligible (i.e., full-time) employees, except for those classified as hazardous duty, will be enrolled in the new VRS Hybrid Plan, unless they have active VRS service prior to that date. Hybrid Plan members will contribute the same five percent of their pre-tax salary as our current VRS-eligible employees do, but their contributions will be allocated in a different manner. Continue reading →

Next Foster Parent Training Series Coming Up in January

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We Need YouCalling all school personnel! We know that you are making a difference in the lives of children every day. Could you extend your willingness to help by providing a loving and structured home for children in foster care? Numerous children enter foster care everyday and need a family who is willing to provide support and encouragement. You can make a difference by opening your home to a child in need. Continue reading →

Teachers: VDOE Wants YOUR Feedback to Improve the Division of Instruction Website

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VDOE LogoPlease help the Virginia Department of Education’s Division of Instruction evaluate the use of their website and other means to communicate important information to teachers by taking this short survey. It should take between 5-10 minutes. Your responses are anonymous and will be used to help the Division of Instruction improve the way they communicate and work with you. The survey will be available until midnight on Wednesday, December 18.

CenturyLink Teachers and Technology Grant Program

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CenturyLink LogoThe CenturyLink Teachers and Technology Grant program will provide up to $5,000 in funding for classroom projects that incorporate innovative ways to increase student achievement. Apply by January 10, 2014! Find out more on the CenturyLink Teachers and Technology Grant Site.

Need assistance with grant writing? Our resident expert (a.k.a., Legislative and Public Affairs Officer), Nicole Storm, is happy to help! Please contact Nicole via email or by phone at 975-9452.