The Education Foundation, a nonprofit group incorporated into D219, is dedicated to helping students rise to their full academic abilities. The group, founded in 2006, has been able to raise money without using tax dollars for almost ten years. The money goes toward AP exam fees, study abroad programs, various academic camps. The Foundation has primarily been focused on high school students, though it has started to expand into the feeder schools.

Applications for various grants can be filled out by either the teacher, student, or counselor. Applicants should show financial need in order to receive a grant. One of the main indicators for of financial need is based on qualifications for free or reduced lunch.

Director of Community Relations Jim Szczepaniak felt that the Education Foundation has been vital to keeping students interested in these programs, despite the burden of cost.

“I think it [The Education Foundation] is important because more and more families are facing financial need,”  Szczepaniak said. “Students’ opportunities should not be limited based on how much money the family has. It is also a great way for alumni and graduates to give back.”

Former grantee Vraj Schroff also felt that the Foundation has helped him in a multitude of ways. Schroff was able to receive a grant his trip to Berlin. He has also received money from this organization for a debate camp at Northwestern.

“I applied for grants in order to attend a global entrepreneurship program. The three weeks I spent in Berlin were really fun. I got to explore the attractions of Germany as well as working on a project,” Schroff said, “The overall cost of the program was five thousand dollars and I paid practically nothing. The foundation even paid half of my airfare. Overall, I think I paid less than five hundred dollars for everything.”

Senior Brendan O’Shaughnessy was also a recipient of the grant. Through the grant, he was able to expand his knowledge of art at the San Francisco Art Institute.

“I am forever grateful for the financial assistance from the district because I was able to have one of the most memorable experiences in my life, thus far why still fostering and further developing my artistic talent,” O’Shaughnessy said.

If parents or alumni would like to contribute to the foundation, donations can be made through the education foundation’s website, as well as by check.