In recognition of "We Love Erie's Public Schools Week," teachers across Erie are receiving some much needed grant money.

The Foundation for Erie's Public Schools on Friday awarded nearly $16,000 in annual innovation arts mini-grants.

Funding for the grant is typically raised through the foundation's annual gala, but that was canceled last year, so much of this year's money comes from other community donations.

The grant money will help fund a variety of arts projects, events and activities that are geared to help boost student engagement in both the classroom and the Erie community, according to a foundation spokesperson.

This year's focus for "We Love Erie Public Schools Week" is to deliver a big "thank you" to the entire Erie Public School community.