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

 

USD 265 History

In the fall of 1884, nestled in the heart of a small South Central Kansas town, a modest schoolhouse was constructed, equipped with a teacher and a handful of eager students. It was here that Goddard Public Schools began its journey as a beacon of education, hope, opportunity, and enlightenment.

A tradition of educational excellence, coupled with an inviting hometown atmosphere continues to attract families, talented educators, and visionary leaders to Goddard Public Schools. The District has expanded its programs and schools to support the growth during the last 139 years, for students and families residing in the 65-square mile radius from Eisenhower National Airport to Lake Afton.

Goddard Public Schools honors the past with a sense of pride and gratitude for all who were part of the #265 family throughout the years. Looking to the future, many exciting chapters are yet to be written in the Goddard District story.

The core values of Goddard Public Schools are:

  1. All students can learn and must have access to resources which maximize their opportunities for post-secondary and career success.

  2. Education is a shared responsibility. Students, parents, community members, and the district must be active partners in this process.

  3. Status quo is not acceptable. We must pursue excellence in providing diverse and advanced opportunities for all students.

  4. We must continue to recruit, develop and retain world class staff members throughout the district.

  5. The district must provide a safe, caring and connected learning environment to educate the whole child academically, physically, and socially.

The mission of the Goddard School District is to educate all students for lifelong success.