Maximizing the Quality of Education

Maximizin of Edu ation The Quality

by Brooke Ezzo

On February 1, 2020, the Denton Public School Foundation hosted one of their biggest fundraisers of the year, the Groundhog Day Gala. This year’s theme was Education and All That Jazz, and guests filled the Denton Convention Center in their best 1920s attire.

The Denton Public School Foundation is a non-profit corporation founded for the purpose of raising and providing support for the teachers and students of Denton ISD.

“The Foundation was established for the purpose of raising funds to enrich and maximize the quality of education in the Denton ISD,” said Jenifer Fuller, Gala coordinator.

Many might not know that most school districts partner with education foundations to help support staff and academic programs. Although the Foundation is a separate entity, they work in cooperation with the Denton ISD administration.

“The public schools are supported by tax payer dollars, but this usually covers the basics,” Jenifer said. “We feel that our kids deserve more, so the goal of the Foundation is to find support within the community to make that happen.”

One way to make this happen is by fundraising. “The Groundhog Day Gala is the Foundation’s largest fundraiser and celebration of the year,” Jenifer said. “We have a Donor Reception just before the big event to honor those who have given either new endowments or significant contributions to the Foundation over the previous year.”

Celebrating its 18th year, the Gala did not disappoint. The decorations made you travel back in time, the silent auction room was adorned with incredible items, and the room housed the Library to Go bus. When it was time for dinner, everyone found their seats and enjoyed entertainment by the Denton High School Jazz Band and the Braswell High School Royals Dance team.

Master of Ceremonies was Mike Vance, President of the Denton Public School

Foundation. We also heard from Board of Directors Weston Thaggard and Mike Woods. Denton ISD Superintendent Dr. Jamie Wilson gave the introduction of special guests and sponsors.

“The Groundhog Day Gala is a wonderful way to break up the winter doldrums,” Jenifer said. “People are emerging from the post-Holiday slump and we hope to offer a little sunshine while we celebrate.”

The profits from the Gala are used to create permanent endowments that will provide teacher grants and scholarships, creating programs, and student scholarships.

“This past year we focused on the Library to Go bookmobile and Outstanding Meal Balances for Child Nutrition,” Jenifer said.

Monies raised from the Gala each year allow the Foundation to continue their mission of supporting the education of our children. As donations come in, incentives and special

programs are formed to enrich the lives of the students and staff.

Jenifer said a goal of the Foundation’s for next year is to simply try and keep up with the growth of the district and by raise awareness of the Foundation in the community.

The 19th Annual Groundhog Day Gala will be held on February 6, 2021.

We Feel That Our Kids Deserve More