40 Years and Growing...

Join President and CEO James Gavrilos as he takes you back to 1984 when the Education Foundation was established. The video sheds light on the Foundation’s integral role within Palm Beach County’s public school system. Learn about their mission of fostering student success through comprehensive support for public education. 

Back in 1984, a collection of noteworthy business and academic leaders realized the importance of creating a foundation that would link the business world with public education. Fast forward 40 years, and the Education Foundation has had a significant impact on the lives of countless teachers and students in The School District of Palm Beach County. Our programs, grants, and educational training initiatives all continue to play a role in shaping the educational landscape of our community.

Click on the link to read the history as it was written in 1988.

BCOME PART OF HISTORY

Join us in celebrating 40 years of unwavering commitment to public education by becoming a part of the Education Foundation’s Honor Society. Not only will your contribution help further our mission of supporting and enhancing public education, but you will also gain recognition for your generosity.

Your name will be prominently displayed on our Honor Society Wall on our website as well as receiving a certificate to display as a token of our appreciation. By joining the Honor Society, you become part of a community that shares a passion for the betterment of education and the empowerment of future generations.

Join us today in shaping a brighter future for education and celebrating four decades of meaningful change.

Cost of School Supplies

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, prices for educational books and supplies are 544.89% higher in 2023 versus 1984

Classroom Grants

The Mini-Grant is intended to enhance teachers' efforts to bring creativity and excellence into the classroom by providing funds outside of what the District provides. Today, these grants are known as GoTerach! Classroom Grants

Funding Innovative Programs

By 1987, the Education Foundation had provided over $100,000 in supportto the School District of Palm Beach County. Today, our support is $3.2 million.

Board of Directors in 1987

The board members of the Education Foundation hailed from diverse backgrounds, representing a tapestry of experiences and expertise. Among them were educators with decades of classroom wisdom, philanthropists driven by a passion for youth empowerment, entrepreneurs keen on investing  in the future workforce, and community leaders committed to fostering educational equity. Their varied perspectives and insights enriched the Foundation’s vision, ensuring it resonated with the needs of students and educators across all walks of life. Together, they forged a dynamic coalition, united in their dedication to advancing education and unlocking the potential of every learner, regardless of their circumstances.

Board Officers
Earl Denney, Jr.
President
Gale G. Howden
Vice President
D. Culver Smith III
Secretary
Dari Bowman
Treasurer

Board Members
James H. Anstis
Sharon Stewart Byrd
Frederic T. DeHon
Wilbur F. Divine
Richard Ellington
Thomas C. Ferguson
Wayne L. Forrest
Gordon D. Gaster
Kate Gildan

Judith Goodman
B.Janice Peak-Graham
William B. Howden
Lynda Myers Johnston
Kieran Kilday
Ronald K. Kolins
George D. Nale
A.E. Osborne III
William G. Owens

Carroll Peacock
Leo B. Schwack
Paula Shore
Merle E. Singer
Barbara S. Smart
Cyrus N. Smith
Lynn M. Smith
Samuel A. Thomas
Paul Twitty

Honor Society Wall of Fame

Angel Adams | James Gavrilos | Teresa West | Angelica Tabio | Jennifer Ethridge | Lisa Park | Valerie Crenshaw | Luke Kurtz |Merdoche LaFrance | Ruth Guerra