Foundation News and Matching Gifts

A Message from The Bellingham Public School Foundation

The Bellingham Public School Foundation (BPSF) wishes to thank the many supporters who made a contribution this year, participated in the Race for Education or attended the first annual Hungry Minds Breakfast in May. Including gifts and pledges through June 14, nearly $80,000 in total contributions have been received. These and any additional gifts, up to a total of $100,000, will be matched dollar for dollar through the generosity of an anonymous donor. If you would like to make a gift, please visit http://foundation.bellinghamschools.org  and donate today.

BPSF is committed to raising awareness and financial support to help ensure the best possible education is available to all students in Bellingham Public Schools. Its grant program this year funded many direct classroom grants and positively impacted thousands of students, meeting needs that would have gone unfunded without local community support.

Also, please save the date for this fall’s Race for Education. Scheduled for the morning of Saturday, Oct. 6, 2012, this scenic 5K run/walk in and around Civic Field is an annual fund and friend-raising event held in partnership with Communities in Schools. Bragging rights will go to the school with the most participants!

Seeking New Board Members

BPSF is currently seeking board members. If you are an engaged and connected community member with an interest in helping the Foundation increase resources for Bellingham Public Schools, please see visit the BPSF website to learn more and contact Executive Director, Gennie Clawson, for more information.

Celebrating College Bound Scholars

BPSF recently hosted a celebration of the first graduating class of high school seniors who successfully participated in the College Bound Scholar program. Drawing from all Bellingham School District high schools, more than 50 students who enrolled in the program as middle school students completed all the requirements and are now eligible to receive full scholarships to further advance their education. With college destinations including Western Washington University, University of Washington, and Whatcom Community College on the horizon, the students and their families celebrated both their success through high school and their future.

The College Bound Scholarship program encourages low-income, middle school students to choose a path that will lead to educational success after high school. The program promises tuition (at public institution rates) and a small book allowance for income-eligible students who sign up in the 7th or 8th grade, work hard in school, stay out of legal trouble, and successfully apply to a higher education institution when they graduate. Administered by the Washington Higher Education Coordinating Board, the College Bound Scholarship program provides hope and incentive for students and families who otherwise might not consider college as an option because of its cost.

June 30 is the deadline for current eighth grade students to register for this program. Please click here for eligibility requirements and to apply online.

Please see the BPSF website (http://foundation.bellinghamschools.org) for additional information and ways you can get involved.