Winter 2011
We are well into the 2011-2012 school year and EdUCate! remains a strong presence in our five University City public schools, thanks to you, our donors.  Last year, during the 2010-2011 school year we were able to distribute more than $100,000 to our schools and our goal is to repeat that this year.  This unprecedented amount of giving has allowed our teachers and principals to pursue projects and continue programs they would otherwise not be able to. Our generous donors stepped up their giving, even in these tough economic times.  I believe that is because EdUCate! provides an avenue for donors to show how much they care about education in University City. 

This year, the board of directors of EdUCate! has again decided to distribute our funds in the way we did last year.  We are giving the principals of the five University City schools money to spend on their school where they see a need.  Giving the principals this flexibility has been key.  From Principal Jeff Olivero, UCHS: “While some departments will have lost 70% of their funding for next year, the funds from EdUCate! will help restore much of the loss in this area.”  From Principal Cecilia Fernandez: “It was nice to have the flexibility to buy something for everyone.” ( Principal Fernandez used her funds to purchase the Raz Kids reading program)

We are also continuing our grant process, and will be distributing $40,000 to teachers in the way of grants.  EdUCate! is also looking to fund iPad and iPod technology to teachers who want to integrate it into their classrooms.  Other districts which use this technology have shown amazing growth in math and language skills.   EdUCate! currently has two teachers piloting this program at the elementary level and feedback to date has been extremely positive.

It is so wonderful to know we can make a difference in our schools.  At EdUCate!, we have fun raising money! Oktoberfest by EdUCate! was wonderful again this year.  Taste of the Triangle, our annual gala, will be held in a different venue this year: UCSD’s Ida & Cecil Green Faculty Club, and promises to be even more fun than last year.  Join us as we come together once again.  Your generous support as always, is appreciated.

Brook Feerick, President president@uc-educate.org