The Goddard Education Foundation (GEF)
The mission of the Goddard Education Foundation (GEF) is to provide resources designed to enrich educational opportunities for the students of USD 265 through an independent nonprofit community-based organization.
History of the GEF
The Beginning
In 2013, a task force of education leaders conducted a feasibility study for an education foundation to serve Goddard Public Schools. The committee determined the formation of a foundation would generate resources to support educational excellence and student success in USD 265.
Vision Becomes Reality
In 2014, the vision became a reality as the Goddard Education Foundation was established as an independent nonprofit 501(c)(3) community based organization with a mission to provide resources and enrich educational opportunities for the students of USD 265.
Inspiring Minds and Expanding Possibilities Today
Goddard Public Schools provides a wonderful education for students and families, and the GEF is committed to connecting resources to educators to make it even better! From investments in early childhood education to the annual Innovative Teacher Grant program, the GEF is there supporting the students from start to finish.
"The committee concluded that changes in the state tax policy at that time decreased the funding to the district and negatively impacted students and staff. With a unanimous recommendation of the Feasibility Study Committee and with the support by the Goddard Board of Education, our work to organize a foundation began." Kevin McWhorter Founding Board Trustee
Kevin McWhorter
Founding Board Trustee
"Excitement over the formation of the GEF continued to grow, and soon we had a team of trustees assembled to develop goals for the foundation. The gifts of time, talent , and resources donated by this dedicated team to the GEF will forever be credited with the launch of the foundation and the successful "Founding Donors" campaign. With that introductory event, we were off and running on our work to develop planned giving to benefit generations of Goddard District students!" Gail Jamison Founding Board Trustee
"We see the need for an Education Foundation everyday, and the opportunities that could be brought to life with the support of partners in education. The GEF is a catalyst for transforming the educational experiences for thousands of students." Jerry Longabaugh Founding Board Trustee