The Lincoln School Project is thrilled to announce it has received a $10,000 Community Possible grant from the U.S. Bank Foundation. This generous contribution will further the Project’s mission to preserve the historic Lincoln School and provide vital arts, culture, and educational programming to the community.
The Lincoln School Project, a cornerstone of cultural enrichment in West Plains, operates out of a restored one-room schoolhouse that served as a Black school during the segregation era. The Project provides unique programming that celebrates African American heritage, educates on local history, and builds community through the arts. This grant will help fund new initiatives that engage local residents, as well as visitors from across the state, in diverse and dynamic cultural experiences.
“All of us deserve to experience the joy we receive from opportunities to play, create and immerse in arts and culture. We’re proud to support organizations like the Lincoln School Project to help more people access the benefits of art and cultural activities and make our communities stronger and more vibrant,” said Kristen Polchinski, Community affairs manager at U.S. Bank.
In recent years, the Lincoln School Project has introduced a variety of events, including artist-led workshops, historical exhibits, and educational discussions on topics impacting Black history and culture. The Project has also hosted prominent speakers and artists, creating a space for shared learning and appreciation for Missouri’s diverse heritage.
The U.S. Bank Foundation grant will specifically support the upcoming Reflection Plaza, an outdoor space adjacent to the Lincoln School building that will offer the community a place for reflection and remembrance. Reflection Plaza will include custom statues honoring the history of Lincoln School and the historical contributions of those students that attended the segregated school. Reflection Plaza will stand as a tribute to those who taught and learned within Lincoln School’s walls.
Crockett Oaks III, Founder of the Lincoln School Project, expressed his gratitude for the grant, saying, “This support from the U.S. Bank Foundation is a tremendous boost to our efforts to preserve Lincoln School’s legacy and expand our programming. It will allow us to honor the past, educate the present, and inspire the future of our community.”
The Lincoln School Project’s mission is to foster a welcoming space for all ages to explore the arts, connect with history, and deepen their appreciation of cultural heritage. This funding will allow the Project to continue providing meaningful experiences that enrich the lives of residents and visitors alike.
