GESF Winter Newsletter

Three new teachers to the profession joined the USD 231 family in January 2024. Knowing that it is expensive to embark on a new career, the Foundation provided each educator with a cash stipend. It our way of joining the district in saying WELCOME. No strings attached. No receipts. This terrific trio can use the funds however they want. Join us in celebrating Annie, Sharon, and Katie as they begin their journey in education.

Once again USD 231 staff members stepped up to exceed the goal of raising $20,000 in 2024. Funds will be used to support the mission of the Foundation which is to serve students and staff in USD 231. Over 130 staff (click list to the right) are contributing a portion of their monthly earnings to partner with the GESF. It's not too late to participate. Call or email Tim Brady or Amy Jackson (Business Manager) if interested. Multiple staff members and schools won various incentives and drawings (see below).

If you have a GESF t-shirt or quarter zip, wear it to school on Wednesday, January 24, to show your support to the Foundation. This is an early release day.

Proceeds from the annual GESF cornhole tournament and other donations, support the WE CARE Fund. This money is earmarked to help students and their families during a time of hardship. During the first semester, nearly $4,000 was issued to support various challenges. These include: assisting with a house payment for a family facing eviction; covering utility costs so a family has water, electricity and heat; paying for driver's education classes; providing Christmas presents to children whose parents have fallen upon hard times; providing car fuel so a parent can drive to work; assist with medical bills, and Project Period. The Foundation works closely with school personnel in supporting those who are in need. If you or someone you know would like more information on how to contribute to the WE CARE Fund, please contact Tim Brady at bradyt@usd231.com.

The spring promises to be a busy season for the Foundation. We hope you join us in participating our annual golf tournament, Thankful Thursday, or nominating someone for the Gardner Edgerton Alumni Hall of Fame. More information forthcoming on all of these opportunities.

We are grateful to our partners who provide financial support. The list below are companies, alumni, community members, or district retirees who gave $1,000 or more to the Foundation in 2023. If you know of someone or a business that you believe would like to support the Foundation, contact Tim Brady at bradyt@usd231.com or they can scan the QR code to make a contribution.

Major Donors: Ameritime, Olathe Health, Holmes Murphy, MidAmerica Bank, DLR Group, Frontier Community Credit Union, Major Saver, American Family Insurance, Next Era Energy, BCI Mechanical, TradeNet, United Healthcare, Universal Construction, Charles Barnett, Brian & Beth Huff, Mark & Stormy Meyer, Tim & Lou Brady.