Tesla promises to give $37.5 million for education in Nevada
Tesla Motors Inc. has sent a letter to Governor Brian Sandoval that promises to give Nevada’s public schools $37.5 million for education over a five-year span.
This commitment letter, signed by Diarmuid O’Connell, was distributed to legislators this month after numerous lawmakers made complaints that education is getting shortchanged in the $1.3 billion package of tax breaks proposed for the car company. Tesla intends to build a battery manufacturing plant in Storey County.
Tesla’s O’Connell tells us, “We at Tesla are excited at the prospect of forming a partnership with Nevada’s K-12 public education system.”
The $7.5 million annual contribution will begin in July 2018 and be delivered to the state Department of Education.
Dale Erquiaga, state superintendent of public instruction, will be in charge of the distribution of the monetary donations, Sandoval’s chief of staff Mike Willden tells us.
Tesla’s donation will go towards engineering, science, technology and math programs.
Chancellor of the Nevada higher System of Education Dan Klaich announced that the system is already collaborating with Tesla to identify what graduates will need to get hired at the car company.
The donations were not included in Tesla’s tax break bills because the Legislature cannot mandate private companies to make contributions.
I am always happy to hear about companies who value the importance of education and show it through their actions. Tesla Motors Inc. deserves a pat on the back for their donation to and excitement towards Nevada’s public schools. I’m certain these funds will prove very beneficial and I’m interested to learn more about how exactly the schools utilize the generous donation.
I think this donation makes sense, especially as it relates to STEM education. It does appear that Tesla may just be trying to buy some positive tax breaks in its direction — but I do hope the money is put to good use.
It makes sense for businesses to give back to the education systems where they are local because in the end, that will boost their own bottom line.
Am I the only one who thinks it is sad that businesses are always saving our schools? What about just better budgets and things like that?
I love that Tesla is making this generous donation! It is also great they are looking for ways to prepare students to work for their business, too.