Grant and Funding Programs Offered by Karen L. Colussi Foundation

The Karen L. Colussi Foundation is a charitable foundation created in 1993 to carry forward the vision of Karen L. Colussi, founder and first principal/administrator of Selkirk Montessori School in Victoria, British Columbia. The foundation was established to enable the construction and long‑term stewardship of a purpose‑built Montessori facility and to provide ongoing financial support to the Pacific Montessori Society, which operates Selkirk Montessori School.

One of the foundation’s core roles is to hold and lease the school building at 2970 Jutland Road to the Pacific Montessori Society. Beyond facility stewardship, it channels philanthropic support into the school community through scholarships, book awards for graduating students, library support and other targeted funds. The donations page highlights several giving options, including scholarships, a mortgage retirement fund, the school library, book awards and a general donation fund, with charitable tax receipts issued for qualifying contributions.

The foundation administers an Awards Program that provides direct financial recognition to students of Selkirk Montessori School. The program includes the Ken Scorey Music Award, created in memory of a long‑time music teacher, as well as awards for student achievement in academics, athletics, visual arts, performing arts/musical theatre and music.

Each year, Selkirk Montessori students are invited to apply in a single category. The website outlines application rules, required supporting documents and submission deadlines, and provides an online application form. Awards are granted at the discretion of the board of the Karen L. Colussi Foundation, which reviews applications and makes final and binding decisions.

The foundation is governed by a volunteer board of directors composed largely of former students, parents and long‑time supporters of the school. Board biographies underline the deep connection between directors and the Montessori community, as well as their experience in areas like administration, finance and technology.

Rooted in the legacy of Karen L. Colussi and educators such as Ken Scorey, the foundation aims to preserve and expand Montessori education from preschool through elementary and secondary levels. It serves as a vehicle for gifts, donations, bequests and endowments, and sponsors events and programs that advance the mission of the Pacific Montessori Society while fostering opportunities for current and future students.