Public Education Empowers Generations
Edmonds School District Budget Cuts Threaten the Power of Public Education
Facing a $15 million shortfall, the Edmonds School Board voted to cut $14 million from its budget in April 2023. The cuts will result in the loss of 32 teaching jobs throughout the district, eliminating several hundred hours of classes in art, drama, music, career and technical education, and co-curricular activities. Class sizes are also expected to grow.
“It deeply saddens and distresses us to know that art, music, drama, and technical education are being cut so drastically. Our children, our community, our very future depends on a strong public education program.” ~Frank and Yvonne DeMiero, composer, renowned Edmonds School District music educator, and local jazz vocal legend
Public education plays a vital role in shaping the minds of future generations. Creativity, career preparation and extracurricular programs shape children’s lives. In addition to creating a sense of purpose and improving self-confidence, countless studies have shown that engaging in creative outlets helps children with problem solving, flexibility, and emotional resilience. Similarly, extracurricular activities boost academic performance. Cutting such programs has far-reaching impacts.
“The impacts from these budget cuts could negatively affect generations of students and future leaders in our district. We know that cuts like these have the ability to reduce academic performance, impact emotional and social development, limit college and career preparation, and increase stress and mental health issues.” ~Deborah Brandi, Executive Director, Foundation for Edmonds School District
The Foundation is launching a new $4 million endowment campaign over the next year to be responsive to the needs of children, families, and schools in the district. Currently the foundation provides a music lab, nourishing programs, classroom grants and other programs and bridge funding to help in the pursuit of educational excellence in our District. The new endowment will enable the Foundation to be responsive to evolving needs in light of these significant budget cuts.
We are accepting gifts of all sizes to help students now and in the future. Together, we can safeguard the transformative power of public education. By acting now, we can ensure a brighter future for our children and a thriving community for all. Join us in preserving the opportunities that shape young lives.
Whether through a one-time gift, multi-year pledge, or planned donation, your support will help preserve a vibrant community and empower the next generation of leaders. Visit foundationesd.org or send your gift to Foundation for Edmonds School District, PO. Box 390, Lynnwood, WA 98046. For information on making a planned gift or pledge, reach out to Deborah Brandi, the Foundation’s Executive Director at deb@foundationesd.org or 425-431-7260.