Community Builder
About the OnPoint Community Builder award
The Community Builder Award aims to provide funding for schools to complete projects that enrich the school, students, and faculty. The award grants four schools a $2,000 prize, while one lucky school—determined by online community votes—receives a $5,000 prize. When selecting finalists, the following criteria are considered:
Creativity and community
Will the project inspire creativity and strengthen the sense of community?
Broad segment
Will the project reach a broad segment of the school community?
Matching cost
Can the project be completed with the $2,000 or $5,000 Community Builder Award? If not, what is the plan to raise any outstanding funds needed?
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
How does this project incorporate diversity, equity, and inclusion?
Meet our 2026 Finalists!
Carus Elementary
Carus Elementary is developing a multi-phase community garden that will include native plant gardens, outdoor learning areas, and nature play features. In the first phase, students design and plant themed gardens, gaining hands-on experience with local ecology. Future phases will add covered learning spaces, garden beds, and interactive natural play elements. The project aims to connect students and the community to nature while fostering environmental stewardship and pride in their school.
Cascade High School
Cascade High School aims to introduce mini pottery wheels to expand ceramics opportunities for students and the broader community. These tools will support new classroom projects, including beginner pottery and advanced sculptural work inspired by contemporary artists. The program will also extend to staff wellness classes and partnerships with elementary schools. Overall, the project enhances creative learning, community engagement, and cross-age collaboration.
Cedar Ridge Middle School
Cedar Ridge plans to expand its ceramics program by purchasing a new kiln, allowing more students to fully complete clay projects from start to finish. The kiln will support growing student interest in art and enable exploration of advanced techniques like glazing and sculptural work. This hands-on experience builds creativity, technical skills, and confidence. The project will strengthen the long-term sustainability and reach of the school’s visual arts program.
Dufur School District
Dufur is implementing the ONCE early literacy program, pairing high school students with younger learners for one-on-one reading support. High school students in the education pathway will deliver daily tutoring sessions, gaining real-world teaching experience. The program aims to improve early literacy outcomes while building career-ready skills in future educators. It also strengthens connections across grade levels and maximizes resources in a rural district.
Mapleton School District
Mapleton is converting a former middle school into a community center that includes a makerspace, garden, and shared resources. The makerspace will serve as a hub for hands-on learning, creativity, and entrepreneurship for both students and community members. It will host workshops, support local projects, and encourage innovation. The initiative positions students as active contributors to their rural community.
Rex Putnam High School
Rex Putnam seeks to replace outdated marching band drums that are over 30 years old and no longer functional. New instruments will improve sound quality, performance, and students’ ability to develop proper technique. The upgrade also ensures equitable access to music programs for students who rely on school-provided equipment. This investment supports student growth, program sustainability, and stronger community engagement through performances.
Woodland High School
Woodland High School plans to take students on visits to trade schools, community colleges, and universities to explore postsecondary options. These experiences aim to increase awareness, confidence, and interest in continuing education, especially for first-generation students. By removing financial barriers and providing guided exposure, students can better understand available pathways. The project empowers students to make informed decisions about their futures.