What is an Education Foundation?
An Education Foundation is an organization comprised of concerned citizens who recognize that as education has become more essential and complex, and both state level and local level funding is consistently cut or eliminated, there is a need to develop a means to raise funds for innovative and effective programs that can help improve student achievement and foster lifelong learning.
An Education Foundation works to
- Increase community involvement in education.
- Raise funds through community-based activities, projects and donations.
- Award grants to teachers/schools for innovative projects and experiences that enrich education for Naugatuck public school students.
Is this a new idea?
No! There are more than ninety-five education foundations currently operating in Connecticut, and others in development. Many are well established and very successful. Many foundations have active web sites that serve to educate the community about the foundation, the grant process, and the important work they do. The Connecticut Consortium of Education Foundations serves as a liaison among foundations and provides information to foundation members.
How does the Education Foundation make a difference?
- First and foremost, the Foundation involves the community in our children’s future.
- It is a beacon of positive thought and action.
- It is a testament to children that their talents and dreams matter.
The Foundation provides enriching, perhaps life-changing, experiences to children - experiences that might never otherwise happen.
The Naugatuck Public Schools are excellent. However, there continues to be a need to expand educational opportunities and meet the needs of our children beyond the core program provided by the public school budget. The NEF recognizes that it is the obligation of the Naugatuck Board of Education and the town to provide a quality educational experience for all students. We will not fund or supplant any program that is rightfully the town's responsibility. The Naugatuck Education Foundation is committed to funding programs and projects that go beyond the central mission of the public schools. We will challenge teachers, principals, and the community to discover new and innovative initiatives that will enhance the program and curriculum of Naugatuck Public Schools.
What is the relationship between the NEF and the Naugatuck Board of Education?
The NEF is a non-political entity independent of the BOE. The NEF will support programs that enhance the opportunities for our children, but will not fund any program that is a part of the expected services and programs provided by the BOE and the town.
Does having an Education Foundation raise my taxes or affect the school budget?
No! Because all money spent by NEF is from private and corporate donations, your taxes will not be affected. Since we will not fund or supplant any program that is rightfully the town's responsibility, the school budget will not change because we have an education foundation.
I have no children. The schools do not affect me. How can the Borough of Naugatuck and the community at large benefit from the NEF?
We all have a stake in ensuring the best education for our children. The quality of a school system is an integral part of any community's success. The school system affects property values, the attractiveness of the town for new business and industry and the general quality of life. We all benefit from improved schools.
How can teachers or schools receive a grant for a program they want to initiate?
Teachers, principals or any certified staff of the school district may submit a grant. Grant proposals are submitted to the Grant Committee of the NEF using the NEF Grant Application. The Grant Committee reviews the grant proposal to ensure that it furthers the mission of the NEF and it is reviewed in the context of all other proposals. Finally, if approved, the teacher or school will receive the funds.
How do you contribute to the NEF, either with time or money?
Soon, the NEF website will have a link to enable online donations. In the mean time, or if it is your preference, you may mail a donation to NEF, P.O. Box 1717, Naugatuck, CT 06770. The NEF is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization and all donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.
We welcome community involvement. Contact any NEF Board member for information on getting involved.