Lexington One Educational Foundation Celebrates 30 Years
Established as a 501(c)(3) non-profit, the Lexington One Educational Foundation is a source of growth and support for Lexington County School District One. Their mission is to support the district’s educational programs and enrich the quality of life in the Lexington community by raising and managing funds. Annually, the Foundation’s board, staff, and volunteers work to build partnerships with individuals and corporations in order to benefit Lexington District One students, teachers, and schools.
Since its inception, the Lexington One Educational Foundation has grown and evolved into a supportive nonprofit organization to Lexington District One. Each year, the Foundation provides educational and need-based grants for Lexington District One students, teachers, and schools, thanks to donations from caring donors.
A few highlights of the Lexington One Educational Foundation’s accomplishments over the last 30 years include:
- $567,126 to 735 Lexington District One graduating seniors in college scholarships or grants.
- Establishment of the Lexington District One Virtual School in 2004, thanks to Toyota Motor Manufacturing North America and Michelin North America.
- More than $213,700 in Bucks for Books Grants over the last nine years to strengthen students’ literacy skills.
- More than $215,000 in Innovation Grants in 11 years to elementary and middle schools for creative, unique learning projects.
- Twenty-one years and $100,000+ invested via Michelin Golden Apple Teacher Grants to support students and classroom learning.
- STEM-focused robotics grants totaling $135,000+ thanks to the Foundation’s Board of Directors, Michelin, the Walmart Foundation, and other local donors who have chosen to invest in students’ STEM learning.
- Health Fund Grants of over $50,000 to support student health and Lexington District One nurses with spot vision screeners, digital thermometers, and more.
- Twenty-one years of honoring the top academically ranked graduating seniors through the Celebration of Excellence in Education.
- More than $2.8 million raised in 22 years through the Lexington Emergency/Education Assistance Program for need-based and educational grants.
All of this and more has been possible thanks to the passion and vision of the Lexington One Educational Foundation Board of Directors and staff. Each year, they work closely with Lexington District One leaders to identify areas of need where financial grants can have a positive impact on Lexington One students, teachers, and schools.
The Foundation’s executive director, Julie Anderson Washburn, shared, “It’s amazing to look back at the impact that the Educational Foundation has had in supporting and shaping the district through the years. We have been extremely fortunate to have dedicated board members leading the organization for many years. They are local leaders who are passionate about serving and supporting the students, teachers, and schools in Lexington District One.”
To find out how you can be a part of the Foundation’s efforts, contact Washburn at 803- 821-1008 or jwashburn@ lexington1.net or visit their website.