JCPS receives $20 million gift from philanthropist Mackenzie Scott

And it’s not her first act of generosity in the commonwealth.

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Grace James Academy. | Photo by the LOUtoday

Jefferson County Public Schools received its largest gift from a single donor in district history — and it’s from billionaire philanthropist Mackenzie Scott.

Her $20 million gift will be used to help improve 11 West Louisville schools by funding playgrounds, athletic fields, uniforms, music rooms, college trips + more as part of a new district initiative looking to narrow the gap in supplemental funding for high-poverty schools.

The initiative, called “E3: Engagement, Environment and Experiences,” looks to fight inequity in project funding so students, parents + communities across the district can all enjoy the same enrichment opportunities.

The money will go into the Jefferson County Public Education Foundationwhich provides financial support for the district — and from there, the district will begin the process of divvying up the funds.

Mackenzie’s generosity in the commonwealth wasn’t born yesterday. She’s also donated $10 million to Goodwill Industries of Kentucky + $20 million to Metro United Way in the last few years. In total, the philanthropist — who is also Amazon Founder Jeff Bezos’ ex-wife — has donated $12.8 billion to causes across the country.

The billionaire philanthropist isn’t the only one taking an interest in West Louisville, particularly its schools. Here are a few more educational happenings in West LOU:

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