FESD Raises $309,000 During 40th Ruby Gala to Enrich Public Education
LYNNWOOD, WA – In celebration of 40 years of service, the Foundation for Edmonds School District held its 40th Ruby Anniversary Gala on March 16th at the Edmonds Waterfront Center. The Gala raised over $309,000 which will be used to provide a wide range of programs and wrap around services to support children in need in the Edmonds School District. The event was attended by 200 local civic and business leaders, district staff, sponsors, and community supporters.
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. Programs include early learning, classroom and schoolwide grants for innovative teaching ideas, on the job training, post-secondary scholarships, school supplies, reading programs, and more, alongside all important nutrition services provided by the Nourishing Network. Programs serve children along their journey from cradle to career.
“Now, more than ever, we all need to help all our children succeed in school so they can succeed in life,” says Dr. Jack Faris, recognized community leader. “The Foundation for the Edmonds School District exemplifies the kind of comprehensive and strategic approach necessary to support our schools and our children, helping families with early learning programs so their children are ready to start Kindergarten ready to learn, making sure they are well nourished, guiding them to the full range of possibilities for college, vocational training, and careers. And more.”
“Through their support, our donors, sponsors, and community members are building bridges for children along their educational journey,” says Deborah Brandi, Foundation Executive Director. “This support is vital to preparing our children to become thriving members of our community. We are honored to carry out our mission for the last 40 years and to continue this legacy well into the future, enriching the education of students for years to come.”
During the event, guests were treated to live music from the Mountlake Terrace High School String Quartet, the District’s Korean P’ungmul Pae, and Lynnwood High School’s Jazz Ensemble. Foundation Executive Director Deborah Brandi shared about the important educational journey children take over the course of their lives and the impact Foundation programs and services have had over the years.
Guests also heard from a variety of presenters, including district students, Ava Rector and Jesse Gausch, Phil Onishi, teacher and music director at Lynnwood High School, Matthew Benuska, Program Instructor of the Korean P’ungmul Pae and District Budget Analyst, and Haeley Handy, alumnus from Mountlake Terrace High School.
“We want to extend a big thank you to everyone who attended the event and to our sponsors,” says Deborah. “The support of our community as we continue this important work is truly heartwarming.”