F A L L 2 0 2 3 D O N O R A P P R E C I AT I O N R E P O R T
About Us
Explore each chapter to discover stories and insights about the Shaker Schools Foundation’s impact in 20222023 and beyond!
elebrating its 42nd year, the Shaker Schools Foundation, established in 1981, C was the first foundation in Ohio to support a public school system The Foundation supports program enrichment and expanded opportunities for learning not covered by tax dollars.
District Staff
Sharon Galin, Alumni Liaison
Board of Trustees 2023-2024
Carter Strang, President Cathy Zbanek, Vice President, Class of ‘91 Christopher Hunter, Treasurer Ramona Lowery-Ferrell, Secretary, Class of ‘89 Jennifer Lawry Adams, Class of ‘88 Eileen Anderson Michael Bowen, Class of ‘05 Kevin L. Clayton, Class of ‘77 Nicol Coxon Mity Fowler Mark Freeman, Life Member David Glasner, Superintendent Jeffrey Isaacs, Board of Education Liaison Cliff Mendelsohn, Class of ‘94 Jay Morgan, Class of ‘87 Jonas Ng Barbara Nolan, Class of ‘85 Phillip Rowland-Seymour, Class of ‘93 Scott Shelfer Tricia Stevenson Stasia Vavruska Brittany Webb, Class of ‘02
Anne Borchert, Chair
Joanie Adler Maxine Isaacs Kathryn Jones Peter Lawson Jones Barb Miller Zachary Paris Terry Pollack Jennifer Proe Deborah Ratner, Emeritus Ronald Ratner Susan Ratner Robin Weaver Caroline Weingart Steve Weitzner Mariama Whyte
M I S S I O N & VA LU E S
Discovering Our Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 W E LCO M E & T H A N K S
Tales from Our Trustees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
P R O J E C T S T H AT M A K E A D I F F E R E N C E
Amazing Adventures in Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 O P P O R T U N I T Y A S S I S TA N C E & ENRICHMENT GR ANTS
Small Grants, Big Impact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 YOUR GIF T M A K ES A DIFFERENCE
It Is Your Superpower. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 BY THE NUMBER S
Foundation Facts & Figures. . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
O F
Holly Coughlin, Executive Director Laura Orazi, Director of Development Erica Verderber, Senior Administrative Assistant Megan Hanger, Development Associate Marla Walker, Marketing and Communications Specialist
Advisory Committee
Board of Education
A LU M N I G I V E B A C K
Raiders Return. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 THE FINANCIAL PIC TURE
Emmitt R. Jolly, President Alison Bibb-Carson Lora Cover Jeffrey Isaacs Heather Weingart
T A B L E
Shaker Schools Foundation Staff
C O N T E N T S
Since its inception, the Shaker Schools Foundation has raised over $10M in support of students and teachers in the Shaker Heights City School District.
Shaker Schools Foundation 15600 Parkland Drive Shaker Heights, Ohio 44120 (216) 295-4329
Unraveling the Treasure Map . . . . . . . . . . 14 CO R P O R AT E PA R T N E R S
Our Team of Supportive Friends . . . . . . 15 GROW THE LEG AC Y
Planting Seeds for the Future. . . . . . . . . . 16 BE LIKE JACK
A Scholar-Athlete Pays It Forward. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
ShakerSchoolsFoundation.org Tax ID # 34-1351470
E XCITING E VENTS
Shaker Shows Up!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 A NIGHT F OR THE RED & WHITE
Comes Home to Shaker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 2 3
Our Mission The Shaker Schools Foundation supports all Shaker Heights City Schools students by cultivating community resources to advance equitable access and enhance opportunities in and out of the classroom.
Shaker Heights has the right balance of school performance, proximity to city amenities, and diversity in its population. My kids are mixed-race, and we wanted them to grow up in a multicultural community. We love the community, our neighbors, and the friends we’ve made. I serve on another non-profit board that focuses on diversity and equity in education, which is what led me to joining the Foundation as a Trustee. My wife and I remark that this has been our favorite place to live ever since we had kids. -Jonas Ng
Our Core Values 4
Each student is valued. Each student feels included. Diversity makes us stronger. Community engagement is vital.
We are committed to inclusive decision making.
My three kids all took advantage of the vast opportunities in Shaker Schools. Their enthusiasm fueled mine. I volunteered at the Art Museum, giving school tours focused on the International Baccalaureate curriculum. I then joined the PTO, and served as President both at Woodbury and the Middle School. My professional background in manufacturing led me to promote more career pathway opportunities for Shaker students, beginning with co-founding Design Day at SMS. Later, I co-chaired the Red & White to raise funds for career pathways and equity initiatives. Lastly, the Sports Boosters reboot was an initiative near and dear to my heart. So much to celebrate in Shaker! -Mity Fowler I’m proud to be the President of the Foundation’s Board. I recently retired from my career as an attorney, but I was also a former teacher and coach at Shaker Heights High School. My wife, Deedra, is a retired Mercer Elementary School speech pathologist, and our five sons are Shaker graduates. -Carter Strang
Welcome!
We’re thrilled to share our Donor Impact Report, which contains stories of the incredible impact gifts to the Shaker Schools Foundation have on Shaker students and Shaker schools. Together we are writing a story of equity, opportunity, and excellence! Thank you! Read more about the ties and experiences that inspire our Shaker Schools Foundation trustees to support our mission. I’m a lifelong Shaker resident and the parent of three Shaker students, two alumni and one high school senior. Although the academics are excellent, I along with a few like minded parents, felt there should be more entrepreneurial and STEAM related curriculum and career paths in the District. The District listened and agreed and the i3 Initiative (Inquiry, Innovation and Imagination) was created. The Shaker Schools Foundation has been instrumental in making the i3 initiatives a reality by funding maker spaces, manufacturing career pathways, creating partnerships with local manufacturers and much more!
Shaker Schools Foundation trustees and staff at the 2023 Memorial Day Parade.
As a teacher, joining the Shaker Schools Foundation was a very important decision for me because I knew being a part of the Foundation would allow me to impact students on a broader scale. Even though there are so many reasons why I joined, the main reasons are to create opportunities for Black students that increase engagement in experiences unique to Shaker, to address and help remove barriers that prevent students from marginalized backgrounds from participating in enriched experiences, and to help evolve education to align more with students’ interests rather than tradition.
“Supporting the Foundation ensures that future Shaker Heights students receive the same outstanding education that I did nearly 20 years ago. Financial support is crucial to that moving forward.” - Michael Bowen, Class of 2005
When my grandfather chose to raise his family in Shaker Heights, his dream was to provide his children the best education available. Eighty years later, three generations of my family have grown up in the Shaker Schools. We are grateful for the learning, both inside and outside of the classroom, as well as the opportunity to experience and discuss real-world challenges. It’s an honor to be a Trustee of the Shaker Schools Foundation, where we continue to embrace Shaker’s focus on excellence and equity in education.
“A community is known by the schools it keeps” has been a core tenet of Shaker for at least the four generations that my family has cheered on the Red Raiders! As the son of an alum, an alum, and the parent of an alum, I care deeply about our community and our schools. That’s why, when I moved back to NE Ohio seven years ago, living in Shaker was an easy decision. I am honored to volunteer for SSF to help build a beloved community and support our children in our neighborhoods and schools. I have the privilege of helping Shaker live up to its promise of excellence, equity, and exploration through the Shaker Schools Foundation.
-Cathy Zbanek, Class of 1991
-Phillip Rowland-Seymour, Class of 1993
-Brittany Webb, Class of 2002
-Tricia Stevenson
Fall 2023 Donor Appreciation Report | 5
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P R O J E C T S T H AT M A K E A D I F F E R E N C E
Amazing Adventures in Education Thanks to your gifts, all Shaker students have opportunities to learn enriching new skills. The Shaker Schools Foundation supports projects that support social and emotional health, career development, technical mastery, leadership, service and more.
The Lomond Sensory Room supports the unique needs of each student. Shaker students are passionate about supporting Shaker families.
MLK Day of Service, A Tradition for Shaker Students
Sensory Room 101, Lomond Gets an A+
Thinking Outside the Box: ACE Mentoring
Wood You Look At That!
When our students returned to the buildings after the pandemic, they needed more resources to help them with their social and emotional health and well-being. With the support of the Shaker Schools Foundation, the new Sensory Room at Lomond Elementary offers a safe space that addresses the whole child. Through the use of sensory activities that improve balance, movement and spatial awareness, students learn to self-regulate their emotions, gain control of their bodies and increase attention span. While some students use the room as part of their daily routine, others visit as needed. Students can use any of the sensory activities – trampolines, crash bags, and color blocks are popular options.
ACE (Architecture, Construction and Engineering) Mentoring is a nationwide after-school program that connects high school students with experts from the design and construction industry. Students explore interactive, hands-on, problemsolving activities in a collaborative environment. The Shaker team meets bi-weekly with their advisors and industry mentors including architects, construction managers and structural, civil, electrical and mechanical engineers. The mentors are representatives from Gilbane Building Company, Van Auken Akins Architects, Equity Engineering Group, The Austin Company, Intertek, CLM Design and Independence Construction. Shaker’s participation in the ACE Mentoring Club is made possible through the Shaker Schools Foundation.
As part of their IB (International Baccalaureate) experience, Middle School 8th graders participate in a Design course that highlights various types of hands-on learning. The Woodworking segment allows students to work together to plan, measure and design projects. They learn essential collaboration skills as they watch their designs grow from start to finish. In the 2022-2023 school year, students made grill scrapers and sanding blocks.
Lomond School Counselor, Mary Bourisseau, says she can already see a positive impact on students. “Lomond has seen a decrease in behavior issues in the classroom. We have seen fewer classroom removals and fewer office referrals, allowing our students to spend more time in class for classroom instruction.” She shared one of the many success stories: “There was a second grader with attentional needs and body awareness issues. Each morning she participated in three activities to engage and calm her body. Over the year she developed more awareness of her body in space. Her teacher reported she was more focused in the classroom.”
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Woodworking students use wood burners to creatively customize their latest project.
The High School piloted the ACE program during the 20212022 school year, with 2022-2023 becoming the first official year for the program. The Shaker team of Amir Midgett, Sam Dillenbeck, Christian Dennis and Rowan Dunn presented at the annual ACE banquet in 2023, finishing in the top three. The three seniors on the team each received scholarships from ACE for their efforts.
“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” - Benjamin Franklin In addition to the support for woodworking equipment provided by the Shaker Schools Foundation, a generous grant from the Architectural Woodwork Institute (AWI) allowed teacher Mark Nagel to procure additional tools, supplies, and resources to grow the impact of the class. The Foundation and our Shaker students are grateful for the support AWI has delivered with their investment in this valuable and popular woodworking class.
Students from Youth Ending Hunger and Student Council have a passion for giving back. As part of the District’s MLK Day of Service, they participated in a project to address hunger and homelessness. Cece Grimberg, a junior, organized the initiative with Laurie Brem, the Student Council Advisor. Many students of all grades participated in this initiative. Partnering with the Outreach Program, the students assembled 2,000 meals for families to receive mac & cheese, Spanish rice, rice & beans, cheesy rice, pasta with tomato sauce, apple cinnamon oatmeal, and minestrone soup. A local church handled the distribution to Shaker families. Students also made two-layer fleece blankets distributed by the NEO Coalition for the Homeless. The bright and colorful blankets were donated to their winter drive that gathers clothes and blankets to comfort the community. Cece shared, “Creating change in the community is my goal.” She is grateful that her high school classmates came together to help local families. The Shaker Schools Foundation was proud to support this student-led initiative through the purchase of supplies.
Fall 2023 Donor Appreciation Report | 7
O P P O R T U N I T Y A S S I S TA N C E & E N R I C H M E N T G R A N T S
Opportunity Assistance gives Shaker students the chance to explore and learn something new outside of the classroom. The Beyond the Desk Fund supports scholarships for students seeking assistance to participate in classes, camps, visual or performing arts groups and more. The Level the Playing Field Fund provides scholarships for students to participate in youth sports. The goal of these funds is to increase diversity and inclusion in all student activities.
Small Grants,Big Impact
Enrichment Grants support small projects that enhance student learning and participation. Teachers and faculty mentoring school-related activities or clubs can request grants for field trips, special art supplies, additional classroom resources, teaching tools, special events, and more. Grants provide teachers with the resources to implement innovative and creative teaching methods.
O P P O R T U N I T Y A S S I S TA N C E
Families Share Their Stories Basketball & Legos
I’m so appreciative of the Shaker Schools Foundation for their generous donation to help my kids enjoy summer activities. My oldest was able to join a basketball camp and my youngest went to Lego camp. They both had a great time, without the help from the Foundation they would’ve missed out. A Gaga Pit provides fun as kids jump, dodge and laugh.
An Opportunity Assistance scholarship recipient practices her gymnastics in front of Mercer Elementary. Gymnastics
Our daughter received assistance for two months last year for the Little Gym program. We are deeply grateful for this opportunity, as it significantly contributed to her physical and mental development. Not only did she acquire some gymnastic skills, but we also observed an enhancement in her social and communication skills through the extracurricular activities. Such assistance is invaluable for children from low-income households.
For more information about Beyond the Desk or Level the Playing Field Scholarships, visit ShakerSchoolsFoundation.org/ student-scholarships. 8
Summer Camps
My daughter participated in Camp Explore through the Shaker Rec Center. This was her second year getting a scholarship through the Shaker Schools Foundation. She had such a blast attending camp for three weeks this year. She learned so many amazing things through the different activities they engaged in every week. One highlight of her time was becoming a better swimmer. Her quote: “I loved seeing some old friends from last year and making new ones this year.” This was my son’s first year attending Camp Discovery through the Shaker Rec Center. He loved getting up every morning and racing to camp. He attended three weeks and was sad to see it end. He loved all the friends he made and his counselors. His quote:v“I loved when our teacher would bring her karaoke machine in and sing Disney songs.” I love that this Foundation is here and available to families in Shaker. It is such a help especially when you have four kids like me who are interested in different things. To be able to have assistance is such a blessing. My children still get to experience opportunities that they enjoy. I am truly grateful.
Students “Advance to Go” while they learn about finance, money and life lessons.
ENRICHMENT GR ANT
ENRICHMENT GR ANT
SHHS Flex Block in Action at Boulevard Elementary
Life Size Monopoly
Recently, Shaker Heights High School students used their scheduled Flex Block time to build a Gaga Pit at Boulevard Elementary. A Gaga Pit, or sometimes referred to as Gaga Ball, is a game for students of all ages and athletic abilities. It’s a fast-paced game with a lot of dodging, running and jumping while using hand and eye coordination and large muscles. Flex Block is on the schedule twice a week at the High School, and is an opportunity for students to continue learning outside of a traditional classroom setting. Students engage in realworld problems that require creative thinking and problem solving. The Shaker Schools Foundation purchased the supplies for the pit. Student Coleman Lauritsen led the project: “The experience of building the Gaga Pit was a unique combination of fun, excitement and stress. It taught me a lot about organizing projects with others and communicating my plans. I loved the day of building the pit and hope the kids at Boulevard will get a great amount of use out of it!”
Shaker Schools Foundation was pleased to support an enrichment grant for 7th grade Science teacher, Brittany Tonti, in the 2022-2023 year. With this grant, she was able to purchase the supplies needed for a life-size Monopoly. Ms. Tonti shared the story of this life-sized lesson: After a community circle that led students to ask many questions about credit, interest rates, and how to invest money, she realized there was a true need for this type of education, even at the middle school level. She developed a classroom economy system that provides students with the opportunity to apply real-world concepts to strengthen financial literacy over the course of a school year using “science singles” as their currency. Students rent or purchase their desks, can buy other students’ desks and collect monthly rent, as well as pay insurance, income tax and fines. They can obtain second jobs within the classroom to earn additional money and learn how to budget and save funds to spend at “Tonti’s Target.” The Shaker Schools Foundation was pleased to partner in this fun way to increase financial literacy!
Fall 2023 Donor Appreciation Report | 9
SHAKER SCHOOLS FOUNDATION BY THE NUMBERS 2022-2023
YOUR GIF T MAKES A DIFFERENCE
OUR ASK
Classroom Learning
Join the collective force of our supporters to provide educational excellence and opportunity for Shaker students!
Technology for hands-on learning, SEL programs, supplies & equipment for new curriculum
Innovative Teaching
Enrichment grants for field trips, author visits, and other tools for creative study and exploration
Opportunities for All
Direct student support for K-12 extracurricular activities and youth sports, and assistance for international high school travel
Career Exploration
Entrepreneurship, mentoring, job shadowing and leadership experiences
The Power of Recurring Donations
Recurring giving amplifies the impact of your support. A monthly commitment, even as little as $5, accumulates to create substantial, lasting change. It provides a reliable source of funding that allows us to plan and execute programs that benefit students directly. We offer multiple giving frequencies, from weekly to semiannually. Choose what works best for you to ensure giving is convenient and comfortable. Visit us online at ShakerSchoolsFoundation.org/donate for more information.
How to Donate Online
By Mail
Visit ShakerSchoolsFoundation.org, select “donate” and choose the fund where you would like to direct your gift.
Mail your contribution to Shaker Schools Foundation 15600 Parkland Drive Shaker Heights, OH 44120
In Honor or Memory: You may designate your gift in honor or in memory of a special teacher, student, classmate, or loved one.
501(c)(3) Non-profit: The Shaker Schools Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and all donations are tax-deductible. Tax ID: 34-1451470
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MAKING CONNECTIONS
OUR AREAS OF FOCUS
GETTING IT DONE
Together we form a league of everyday heroes, standing as guardians of educational equity and opportunity for all Shaker Heights City Schools students! Gifts from alumni, parents, and community members help Every Student, Every Grade, and Every School.
WHAT WE DO
WHO WE SUPPORT
It Is Your Superpower
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Served by the Foundation every student in every building
PreK, Elementary, Middle Years and High School buildings receiving support
Projects
Teacher Grants
Expanding curriculum and resources throughout the District
Enhancing classroom learning
400
Educators
Alumni
Helping dedicated teachers, coaches, counselors and advisors
Creating an active network of Shaker grads
Given to outstanding High School juniors and seniors
For extra-curricular opportunities and travel assistance
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Community Events
Partners
Sharing ideas through our Shaker Speaks series and other events
Memorial Day Parade, Kindergarten Kickoff, Back to School BBQ, MLK Day, Homecoming
Corporations and foundations providing mentors, career training and sponsorships
Helping with fundraising and community events
Established by alumni, parents and community members to benefit Shaker students
Generously supporting Shaker schools.
Attendees
Speakers
At our spectacular annual benefit, A Night for the Red & White
Board Members Contributing time and talents to Shaker Schools Foundation
Numbers reflect programs and activities in the 2022-2023 academic year.
THANK YOU!
A LU M N I G I V E B AC K
Raiders Return
Shaker alumni have a deep love for their schools. They generously give back to support current students, ensuring they have the best opportunities for success!
Alumni Giving Their Time & Talent SHHS Reunion Classes Giving Back Each year reunion classes enthusiastically return to Shaker to reminisce with classmates, catch up with one another and even create new relationships. Our alumni share a similar story that their Shaker schools experience shaped their future and created a solid foundation. We are fortunate that many reunion classes choose to give back to the Shaker Schools Foundation in honor of their reunion.
ACE (Architecture, Construction, and Engineering) Mentoring Program is supported by many industry professionals as well as the Shaker Schools Foundation. The goal is to build a diverse and better-prepared workforce by providing scholarships, internships and mentoring as our students learn from their mentors and pursue careers in architecture, construction and engineering. We are grateful to our alums, Kyle Jones, Class of 1988, and Ramona LoweryFerrell, Class of 1989, who are mentoring our students. Alumni gather at a Cleveland happy hour.
Alumni Gather Near & Far Class of 1993 Reunion
Alumni Family Creates New Fund The Harry J. Lehman Political Science Endowment Fund was started by Lehman’s adult children to honor the 1953 graduate. “Our dad was a proud Shaker graduate, and equally proud that many of his children and grandchildren graduated from, and thrived within, the Shaker School system. Through this scholarship, we want to encourage other SHHS graduates to explore public service and how they can leverage their Shaker Schools experience to drive for meaningful change through involvement during their post- high school studies (and hopefully beyond).” We are grateful for their generous gift.
Calling All Alumni Please update your contact information by using the QR code or email us at ShakerAlumni@shaker.org. 12
Kevin Clayton with SHHS Student-Athletes Kellon Smith and Javiera Baeza.
Class of 1983 reunion attendees shot some hoops in the North Gym during their tour of the High School.
The Class of 1970, which was passionate about social issues when they were students, established a class fund supporting SGORR (Student Group on Race Relations). Their class gift arrived at a special moment as SGORR celebrates its 40th anniversary. The Class of 1983 donated to the Shaker School Foundation’s Education Equity Fund. As shared by the class, “Our reunion was a celebration of the diversity of our class and of the many meaningful paths we have walked in communities within and beyond Shaker Heights.”
Kevin Clayton, Class of 1977, shared “A Letter to my Ninth Grade Self” with student athletes and families. The Shaker Schools Foundation, Shaker Sports Boosters, and Shaker Athletic Department sponsored this inspiring program. Kevin is the Senior VP, Head of Social Impact and Equity, Cleveland Cavaliers, as well as a Trustee of the Shaker Schools Foundation.
Returning to Shaker Schools Will Warren, Class of 2007, is the District’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Coordinator. “To be back in the place where the foundation for my success was laid, to work on the staff alongside coaches, teachers, athletics staff and even security guards who took the time to get to know me and look out for me during my time here as a student, is such a full-circle moment as a professional. I’ll always be appreciative of what Shaker provided me.” Will oversees student based programs that he participated in during his high school years, including MAC Scholars, Bridges and SGORR.
We are pleased to help our Shaker alumni gather with other alumni of all class years in different cities. They love finding the Shaker connection wherever they may live. To date, we have helped Shaker alumni gather in person and virtually in Southern California, the DC area, Chicago, Atlanta, and of course, Cleveland. Please contact us at ShakerAlumni@shaker.org if you would like to assist in coordinating a gathering in your town.
Celebrating Anniversary Milestones Shaker Raider Hockey celebrated its 50+2 year anniversary with a full weekend of activities. Alumni of all ages gathered from all across the U.S. and even from Europe to celebrate this beloved Shaker team. SGORR’s 40th Anniversary in October provided many conversations and panels focused on social justice and racial equity. Started by a group of students in the 1980s, their work has continued and grown. Sankofa’s 25th Anniversary will be celebrated February 23-24, 2024. Look for details at ShakerSchoolsFoundation. org/alumni.
Fall 2023 Donor Appreciation Report | 13
T H A N K S T O O U R 2 0 2 3 PA R T N E R S
I N V E S T I N G I N E D U C AT I O N
Turning Donations into Opportunities Thanks to the generous support of our donors, the Shaker Schools Foundation is able to provide a wide range of opportunities for our students, teachers and community.
Receipts Contributions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $594,057 Corporate Sponsorships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58,500 Net Gain on Investment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 462,942 Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,115,499
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Disbursements Authorized Projects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $326,917 Student Awards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54,168 Teacher Grants. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9,167 Administrative & Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 262,951 Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 653,203
Cash & Investments
Cash & Investments
Looking Back:
Looking Ahead:
Here are just a few of the projects and initiatives supported by the Shaker Schools Foundation in recent years: Design Labs at Lomond, Boulevard & Woodbury Fernway Outdoor Space Raider Athletic Center PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) Advanced Manufacturing & Machining Courses Fashion Design Course Middle School Woodshop and Food Insecurity Design Courses Pandemic Support - headsets, hot spots and more
In addition to project support that promotes educational equity and hands-on learning, the Shaker Schools Foundation will continue providing direct support for students through: 6th Grade Camperships Middle School Washington, DC Trip Scholarships High School International Travel Scholarships Junior and Senior Student Awards Opportunity Assistance - extracurriculars and youth sports
(at market, beginning of year 7/1/22) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $4,839,670
Our Team of Supportive Friends
Watch this video and see how the Shaker Schools Foundation has partnered with the Cleveland Foundation to maximize our resources to support Shaker students!
Corporations, foundations and other organizations contribute to Shaker schools because they believe in nurturing bright futures. By investing in education, they’re not just funding classrooms, they’re sowing seeds for a stronger community. It’s about creating opportunities and shaping tomorrow’s leaders. This support makes a tangible impact on the lives of our students.
“Corporate philanthropy in education is not about giving back; it’s about propelling forward, ensuring that future generations have the tools they need to succeed” - Indra Nooyi
(at market, end of year 6/30/23). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $5,301,966
Does your company have internships or mentoring opportunities? Contact Holly Coughlin, Executive Director PHONE: (216) 295-4325 EMAIL: coughlin_h@shaker.org
All-American Athletic Apparel AmazonSmile Foundation Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Arminius Foundation Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. AVI Foodsystems Bellefaire JCB Blue Point Capital Partners Brindza McIntyre & Seed LLP The Botnick Law Firm Brookfield Calvetta Brothers Floor Show Cardinal Charitable Foundation Carol Nursery School Champions Before and After Care City of Shaker Heights Cleveland Cavaliers Copy King Inc. Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church The Esther and Hyman Rapport Philanthropic Trust Expedia Frames Unlimited Gilbane Building Company The Harry K. Fox and Emma R. Fox Charitable Foundation Hogan Transportation The Horowitz Ratner Family Foundation
Huntington National Bank Independence Business Supply J. Pistone Market & Gathering Place Karlovec & Company Design/Build Remodel KeyBank National Association League of Women Voters - Shaker Heights Chapter Legacy Capital Partners Love Insurance Agency The Lubrizol Foundation Marrow Fine Jewelers Medical Mutual of Ohio Microsoft Modom Sound Nederlandse School Cleveland Inc. Neptune Plumbing & Heating Co. North Union Farmers Market Orange Place Family Dentistry Parker Hannifin Foundation PayPal Peebles Fitness, LLC Phoenix Specialty Candles LLC The Progressive Insurance Foundation James & Susan Ratner Family Foundation Ronald and Deborah Ratner Family
Foundation Rube Adler Sporting Goods, Inc. Samuel H. and Maria Miller Foundation Sangree Foundation Sauerland Foundation SAY - Social Advocates for Youth Sgt. Clean Car Wash Shaker Arts Council Shaker Heights Teachers’ Association Shaker Heights Youth Center, Inc. Shaker Raiders Football Booster Club Shaker Sports Boosters SHATA The Sherwin-Williams Foundation Solon Orthodontics Studio J Academy of Dance Third Federal Foundation TIRL LLC TransUnion Tucker Ellis LLP Turfscape LLC Ulmer & Berne LLP Uvas Foundation Van Auken Akins Architects LLC The Veale Foundation Wallpaper Warehouse WeFund4u Weston Hurd LLP Wilkoff & Sons LLC
Fall 2023 Donor Appreciation Report | 15
GROW THE LEGACY
Planting Seeds for the Future
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
We are grateful to our amazing donors with an eye on the future –you’re building a legacy for the next generation of Shaker kids.
Holly Coughlin, Executive Director
Together, let’s nurture that proud legacy of a Shaker Schools education. It’s your support that makes our vital work possible!
EMAIL: coughlin_h@shaker.org
Your Planned Gift
PHONE: (216) 295-4325
Named Funds
HOW TO SUPPORT:
You can provide for the future work of the Shaker Schools Foundation in the following ways: - Bequest from a will or trust - Life insurance policy or annuity
HOW TO SUPPORT:
Income from the Shaker Schools Foundations’ named funds helps support programs that enrich curricula, encourage and celebrate achievement, provide professional development, and enhance inclusivity for all Shaker students. VIEW LIST OF NAMED FUNDS:
- Retirement assets (IRA, 401K) -C urrent gift of $5,000 or more to the Foundation’s Legacy Fund or other named endowed fund
www.ShakerSchoolsFoundation.org/named-funds
- Establish a named fund in honor or memory of a loved one, or to support a special focus area, with a gift or pledge of $10,000 or more
The Legacy Society (List as of 9/15/23) Stuart Abrams Ruth S. Affelder Reading Fund Eileen Anderson Herbert Ascherman, Jr. Christine Auginas Joan Ball Deborah Beim Cathy Belk George & Margaret Cannon Bill & Jennifer Clawson Deborah Cowan 16
Mr. & Mrs. Rand M. Curtiss James Deutchman Sarajane & Sam Dolinsky Susan Fainstein Dr. Mark Freeman Estate of M. L. Freidman Ann & Scott Garson Steven & Gail Goldfarb Grant Kohn Goodman Fiona & Matthew Green
We appreciate these donors who have provided support for the Legacy Fund and other endowed funds. Derek Green Linda & John Hallbauer Ayesha Bell Hardaway Betty & Karl Hess Estate of Dorothy Humel Hovorka Rick & Annie Hubbard Chris & Maria Hunter Estate of Helen L. Ittner Robin D. Johnson Kathryn & J. Stephen Jones
Nancy & Bernard Karr Amy Kerr Thome & Stephen Thome Adam Lehman & Belina Krifcher Matthew & Julie Lehman Dr. & Mrs. Gilbert Lowenthal Neil & Susan Luria Abe & Barb Miller John S. Murphy Nancy Silber Pickus Dorothea & Michael Polster
Judge Dan A. Polster & Ms. Deborah A. Coleman Jonathan & Nancy Polster Lisa & Sean Richardson Sauerland Foundation Paul Sauerland Shaker Heights High School Class of 1967 Philip & Shuara Shands Sue Starret
Craig Stout Deedra & Carter Strang Brian S. Sullivan Annette Tucker Sutherland & J. Mark Sutherland Stasia Vavruska Holly & Douglas Wang Robin Weaver Fred Widen Thomas Wise Cathy & Brian Zbanek
Jack Holdstein, Class of 1944, fondly recalls his time as a student here in Shaker Heights and credits his education for his success in life. As a child, Jack’s family moved to Shaker Heights for the renowned school system. Jack was a scholar-athlete and played on the tennis and football teams. After graduation, Jack went to Wisconsin University and later attended Harvard Business School. He retired as a successful financial planner for what is now Morgan Stanley. Jack and his wife Leslie had two boys, John and Tom. Now a Florida resident, Jack has had a good life despite the heartache of losing his wife and sons over the years. He turned his grief into giving by creating a fund in their names at the Shaker Schools Foundation. The Tom, John, and Leslie Holdstein Memorial Fund receives gifts from the Holdstein family and others who donate in honor of birthdays, holidays and special occasions. The Holdstein Fund, which provides an annual award to a graduating senior who is an accomplished student-athlete, has already assisted over 26 Shaker students. Jack regularly invites his family members and friends to support his favorite charity. He gives to the Holdstein Fund to help further the education of Shaker students, knowing every little bit helps. Jack encourages students to get as much education as possible and believes that the key to success is education. “Don’t be afraid of hard work!”
Jack’s Photo from the Class of 1944 yearbook. Fall 2023 Donor Appreciation Report | 17
SAVE THE DATE : March 2, 2024 | Shaker Heights High School | 7 pm
EXCITING EVENTS
Shaker Shows Up! Shaker Speaks Our Shaker Speaks events feature Shaker alums who share their insights and passions with our wonderful Shaker community. Our guests have a unique opportunity to connect with amazing alumni from all over the country in an intimate setting. It is a fundraiser as well as an outstanding Shaker community engagement event. Combining fundraising with a fantastic opportunity for the Shaker community to come together, each Shaker Speaks is shaped by the speaker and the topic of discussion. We had two amazing speakers during the 2022-2023 year: Peter Lawson Jones, Class of 1971, shared many stories and reflections from his life’s journey in our first Shaker Speaks series, A Night with Peter Lawson Jones! Jones, a graduate of Harvard College (magna cum laude in Government) and Harvard Law School, is an attorney, consultant, dramatist,acting instructor, and former elected official. Peter is a member of SAG-AFTRA and Actor’s Equity. He has appeared in well over twenty films and has starred on network television series, (NBC’s Chicago Fire and ABC’s Detroit 1-8-7). Mr. Jones has shared his passion and love for acting on stages throughout Northeast Ohio. He recently starred in, A Man Called Otto alongside Tom Hanks! Donations supported the Fine & Performing Arts Fund Adam Grossman, Class of 1998. In a unique question-and-answer Shaker Speaks format, Adam shared his road from intern to Executive Vice President / Chief Marketing Officer with Boston Red Sox & Fenway Sports Management. Adam is a 2002 cum laude graduate of Duke University with a degree in public policy and one of eight members selected to the 2014 Eisenhower Fellowships program, chaired by General Colin L. Powell. While at Duke, he co-founded a student-led organization to improve the Durham Bulls Youth League. He spearheaded a $450,000 renovation project to refurbish two baseball fields in Durham’s inner city. Donations supported the Sheri Grossman Literacy Fund
Oh, What A Night! Red & White 2023 Thank you again to all of our generous donors who joined us in support of Shaker students for A Night for the Red & White at the Hilton Cleveland Downtown in March 2023. David Pogue, Class of 1981 alum and CBS Sunday Morning correspondent, was our entertaining and engaging emcee. Guests enjoyed the talents of our Raider Reps, Raider Marching Band Drumline, Vocal Ensemble, Strings Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, Sankofa, and SpongeBob Theater performances. Fantastic student artwork was on display from every school building in our District. Patrons enjoyed dinner, dancing and a champagne toast! Funds raised supported student opportunities, including scholarships for extracurricular activities, travel assistance, mentoring experiences and career training programs.
Comes Home to Shaker
You’re invited to our annual benefit celebrating the impact of our donors through inspirational Shaker stories. Join us for dancing, specialty drinks, tapas, and performances by our talented students in an elegant setting that captures the Shaker spirit!
Your dollars directly support: EVERY STUDENT. EVERY SCHOOL. EVERY GRADE. Classroom Learning - resources for hands-on learning and new curriculum Innovative Teaching - grants for field trips and tools for creative study and exploration Opportunities for All - direct student support for extracurriculars, youth sports and travel Career Exploration - mentoring, job shadowing and entrepreneurship experiences Together we can make a difference in the lives of our students, right here at home.
This annual event is the Shaker Schools Foundation’s biggest fundraiser.
Purchase your tickets today!
Join us on March 2, 2024, as the Red & White Comes Home to Shaker!
ShakerSchoolsFoundation.org/RedandWhite
* Discounts available for young alumni, staff and first time attendees
Stay tuned for information about the spring 2024 Shaker Speaks series. If you have a suggestion for a featured speaker, we’d love to hear from you. Email Holly Coughlin @ coughlin_h@shaker.org. 18
Fall 2023 Donor Appreciation Report | 19
Every Shaker student is a unique story with chapters yet to be written. Thank you for being a part of their narrative!
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn or visit us at ShakerSchoolsFoundation.org for information about upcoming events and to learn more about how the Foundation uses your generous donations to support Shaker students!