BROCKWAY, PA (EYT) – The Brockway Schools and Community Education Foundation has been operating for five years, but this year is the first time it has thrown a gala event.
The Foundation provides extra educational opportunities to students in the Brockway Area School District. The Foundation is how Brockway has been able to offer college English and Psychology courses, Advanced Placement courses in calculus, chemistry, biology, and social studies, and other STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) enhancements to the curriculum.
“It’s an independent public charity focused on enriching education for BASD students,” explained Foundation Executive Director Lisa Rutherford. “Our mission is, really, to prepare students in an ever-changing society.”
The Foundation is funded by businesses and alumni who share the same vision. It is not funded by tax dollars, although donations are tax-deductible.
Rutherford said that the Foundation Gala is more than a fundraiser, but also a chance to showcase the talent fostered by the Foundation’s money. “Fred Barefield will be there showcasing his woodcraft,” she said. “Bill Porrin is coming with a display of his pens and pencils. He donated a pen and pencil set for the giveaways. Our dual enrollment and AP students will be there to help run the event, and even bartend.”
Barefield and Porrin got scholarships from the Foundation to build their shops. Barefield makes furniture while Porrin does custom-order pens. Both expanded their operations due to the scholarships.
Rutherford said that the students will be present to talk about how the Foundation has enriched their experiences. Some Brockway graduates, she explained, left the high school with almost a year of college already completed.
The event will have hot and cold hors-d’oeuvres, a selection of beer, wine, and soft drinks, and a raffle and silent auction. Brockway area businesses donated the auction items and raffle baskets.
“Everybody there will have a chance to win,” Rutherford said. “And you do not need to be present to win.”
The Foundation helps Brockway students get a jump start at college, but also provides extra services that students can enjoy while in school. It has purchased a 3D printer, assisted in purchasing science equipment and technology, and has funded field trips. Businesses and individuals donating have the added benefit of tax deductions.
Even the centerpieces are connected to the Foundation. “BCAT provided bowls, cups, and vases that can be purchased with a percentage going to the Foundation,” Rutherford said. BCAT has been assisted by Foundation money, and several Brockway students have been connected to BCAT through the Foundation.
The Foundation Gala is April 28 at 6:30 p.m. at the Il Villagio Social Room. RSVPs are appreciated and can be sent to lrutherford@brockway.k12.pa.us or by calling 265-1940.
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