Foundation for Edmonds School District Celebrates 40 years of Empowering Students and Serving the Edmonds School District
Lynnwood, WA – The Foundation for Edmonds School District is proud to announce its 40th anniversary, marking four decades of unwavering commitment to supporting students, families, and educators in the Edmonds School District.
Since its inception in 1984, the Foundation has played a pivotal role in fostering educational excellence by providing resources, grants, and support to students, teachers, and schools within the district.
Over the forty years, the Foundation has grown from one program to launching its 22nd program in the fall of 2023, positively impacting students from cradle to career. As part of its vision that every student has the resources to learn, thrive and contribute to our vibrant community, the Foundation has provided approximately $2.5 million in classroom and schoolwide grants, funding innovative and inclusive education. Since its merger with the Edmonds School District Alumni Association in 2014 and the Mountlake Terrace Educators Association in 2015 the Foundation has awarded almost $1.3 million in post-secondary scholarships.
Alongside grants and awards, the Foundation has focused efforts on providing nutrition and hygiene support and wrap around services to students and families through the Nourishing Network and Whole Families, Whole Communities, extending its impact beyond the classroom and fostering a culture of collaboration and community engagement.
“We are honored to celebrate 40 years of service to the Edmonds School District. This milestone is a testament to the enduring dedication of our community to the success and well-being of our students,” says Deborah Brandi, Foundation Executive Director.
Throughout its history, the Foundation has contributed to initiatives that directly impact the learning environment, including post-secondary scholarships for deserving students:
“When I was still in high school, I couldn’t have imagined that I would be where I am today. My future was very uncertain at the time, I wasn’t sure how I was going to be able to afford college” says Neil Wiborg, 2018 Mountlake Terrace High School graduate. “Now that I have graduated from the University of Washington Bothell, I have moved across the country to start my career as a software engineer with Boeing in St. Louis. I’m not sure where I would have been 5 years after graduating if I hadn’t gotten these scholarships, but I know that they are a big part of what allowed me to focus on school rather than money and I am very thankful to be where I am today.”
“We look forward to building on the framework laid over the past 40 years and continuing to make a positive impact on the lives of students in our district. Our commitment to education remains steadfast, and we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead,” adds Deborah.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, the Foundation for Edmonds School District be hosting their 40th Anniversary Ruby Gala on March 16th, 2024 at the Edmonds Waterfront Center as well as highlighting the important stories of students, teachers, and families who have been impacted by the hard work of Foundation Staff, Board, and Volunteers over the years.