SACRAMENTO – Assembly Member Anna Caballero (D-Salinas) today presented a $5,000 check to the officials and students at Salinas’ McKinnon Elementary School. 

McKinnon will use the funds to purchase 11new digital, high-resolution microscopes for use in their science programs.  Susan Fisher, Principal of the McKinnon School, teaches a hands-on science club class that meets during the lunch hour, providing interested students with additional science instruction.  Although the students voluntarily give up their lunch recess, the class is so popular that it has a waiting list.

“I’m delighted that these funds are available to help our McKinnon students acquire a practical, hands-on approach to science, beyond what they can learn through standard textbooks,” said Caballero.  “This is a tremendous boost for young people at a critical stage in their education.”

The check is a grant from the Barona Band of Indians, provided as part of the Barona Education Grant Program.  The McKinnon School’s application for the grant was endorsed by Assembly Member Caballero.  The high-resolution microscopes will be used by students receiving daily science instruction, as well as by students in after-school programs and the Saturday Migrant Intervention Program.

The Barona Band of Mission Indians established the Barona Education Grant Program several years to benefit schools throughout California.  With the endorsement of their locally-elected state legislator, schools can apply for the grant to purchase much-needed supplies and materials.  Each grant is $5,000.  The Band is located in San Diego County.

“It is generous of the Barona Band of Mission Indians to support schools in this way,” said Caballero.  “I appreciate their generosity, and their commitment to help support schools throughout our state.”