The latest Education Foundation magazine will arrive in mailboxes soon, you can read it here. It features an incredible display of generosity from Larry Beans, State High ’62: a $1 million commitment to the Campaign for Memorial Field. This gift is a true milestone for the Education Foundation and for the school district and illustrates the impact of a well-rounded educational experience. I hope you’ll take a moment to read about Larry’s State High experience, how it influenced him throughout his life and why he is choosing to pay it forward to future generations of Little Lions.

In addition to sharing this exciting news, the magazine includes an update on the groundbreaking work being done thanks to donor support for the Mental Health Matters Fund. This fund, originally designed to fuel the district’s focus on student mental health and well-being, became an important lifeline for students and families during the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, gifts to the Mental Health Matters Fund are fulfilling growing needs for mental health support, including professional development for teachers and staff and new resources for students and families. Our school district has been a true innovator in this important realm with the generous support of our donor community.

Finally, this issue celebrates the success of our students, families and faculty after a challenging year. Superintendent O’Donnell reflects on how our school community came together to give students the best possible experiences, overcoming the challenges posed by remote learning, hybrid schedules, safety guidelines and more.

Behind the scenes in 2020-21, donors partnered with the Education Foundation, contributing more than $900,000 to various funds, programs and capital projects that directly benefit students and strengthen our schools.

As we look ahead to 2021-22 and look forward to having ALL of our students back in school EVERY DAY, I’m asking you to consider how you can be part of our students’ journey. The Education Foundation is preparing to support emerging priorities during the new school year through the Mardi Lowry McDonough ’87 Student Opportunity Fund and Grant Program. This program provides “beyond the budget” funding for K-12 student experiences, classroom equipment, new technology, traditional learning materials and more.

On behalf of our teachers, administrators, staff, students and families, thank you for being part of the SCASD community. I hope you enjoy this issue of FOUNDATION.

Sincerely,

Chris Buchignani, President