As teachers and staff across CFBISD prepare for a new year, the CFBISD Educational Foundation is hard at work behind the scenes supporting the community, students and staff. Established in 1997, the Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD Educational Foundation has awarded well over $1,000,000 for aid and assistance through supporting programs, scholarships, teacher grants, and other initiatives. Donna Wald, the foundation's director, is very excited about what is on the horizon for the foundation.

How did you become involved in the Educational Foundation?
I started my tenure with the foundation as a volunteer for a golf tournament in 2011. I fell in love with the district, the mission, the teachers, and of course, the students. My company was a sponsor of CFBISD events, and it was just such a positive experience, I couldn’t stop. I was elected to the Foundation’s Board of Directors soon thereafter and I felt like I was home. In 2018, I was elected as President of the Board. CFBISD is a passion near and dear to my heart. 

How does the Educational Foundation work?
The Educational Foundation is a separate 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization. It is governed by a volunteer board, who are elected to serve. All Board members have a demonstrated passion for CFBISD and are willing to serve, lead and support our fundraising initiatives. The Board has an elected president who governs and leads the efforts as well as the financial responsibilities of leading a non-profit organization. Our entire purpose is to raise funds and support educational opportunities in the CFBISD community.

What is the vision of the Ed. Foundation? 
The Foundation Board is currently in a growth mode. We are looking to triple this board and are actively seeking new leaders that are passionate about the district and want to serve. We are planning our soon-to-be-launched Innovative Teaching Grant program which will be focused on encouraging, facilitating, recognizing and rewarding innovative and creative instructional approaches that drive district and program objectives. We are also planning for a celebratory signature event in 2022 to highlight our many years of service and promote CFBISD as the premier school district in North Texas. 

How does the Ed. Foundation benefit the CFBISD community?
Supporting student scholarships is a primary focus of the Foundation. We’ve been known for the student scholarship program and that will never change. With that said, we know there’s the possibility of a greater reach and we are driving toward that end. We are very excited about our new, Innovative Teacher Grant Program. “A rising tide lifts all boats” and we know that with educators that are supported, we will have students that are impacted positively.  

What are some things that you are looking forward to this coming year?
I am so excited to launch the Innovative Teacher Grant Program and to watch our Board expand, grow and thrive. I want to see CFBISD receive all the love and support possible. When I tell others about the graduation rates of our students, the vision of the district, the passion of the educators, the programs, the innovation, the TEAMWORK and the FAMILY – I realize how we are the “best kept secret,” and I want everyone to know the greatness of this district.