OUR IMPACT
In 2024, MEF reached a transformational milestone: income from the Foundation's endowment began covering all operating expenses—and more. Because the endowment principal remains intact, it will continue to grow and generate support for our schools for generations to come.
As a result, 100% of every Annual Fund gift goes directly to grants that benefit Signal Mountain students and schools.
What We Fund
Today, MEF continues its commitment to supporting and funding a whole-child educational experience across 4 key pillars:
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Exceptional academics are the foundation of a world-class education. MEF helps provide the people, programs, and critical resources, like our Learning Center at Signal Mountain Middle High School, that empower every student to reach their full potential.
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The arts inspire creativity, confidence, and self-expression. From music and theater to visual arts and innovative learning experiences, MEF works to ensure every student has opportunities to discover and develop their unique talents.
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Athletics promote health & wellness while fueling confidence, character, teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. MEF partners with the schools and Signal Mountain Sports Boosters to support fields and facilities, transportation, equipment, and other priorities that keep our PE and athletic programs strong, competitive, and accessible for every student.
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Through clubs, extracurricular activities, and our Signal Serves initiative, MEF is helping build a culture of leadership and service across Signal Mountain schools and the greater Chattanooga area. By creating meaningful opportunities for students to get involved and give back, we're cultivating compassionate, civic-minded leaders who will make a difference for years to come.
by the Numbers
$30 million+
raised & invested in Signal Mountain schools since 1991
2,800+
students served annually
140%
increase in average home sale prices since opening Signal Mountain Middle High School
88%
of Signal elementary students continue on to Signal Mountain Middle High
100%
of Annual Fund gifts go directly to support students, educators, and schools
THE MEF GRANT PROCESS
Annual Fund gifts are granted in the spring to each Signal school after a comprehensive review process in collaboration with principals and PTAs.
How it works
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MEF projects grant funding for each school for the upcoming year based on Annual Fund giving and student enrollment to be used in two parts.
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Part I funding: Principals receive and review their budgets from HCDE as well as their projected MEF grants to identify funding gaps for key staff and educator resources, which typically utilizes 70-80% of their grant funds.
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Part II funding: Principals and PTAs meet to review and align on additional priorities, any remaining staffing needs and potential special project allocations for the balance of grant funds.
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Each school submits and presents their proposed grant allocations to the MEF Board of Directors for review to ensure efficiencies, budget optimizations and alignment with the Foundation’s mission, vision and values.
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Once grants are approved, funds are awarded throughout the next school year on a reimbursement basis as they are utilized.
