Lancaster Foundation for Educational Enrichment
The Lancaster Foundation for Educational Enrichment was established in 1989 by an insightful group of civic leaders. The Foundation promotes educational excellence in the School District of Lancaster by strengthening community participation and by providing support for initiatives not funded by current tax revenues.
The Foundation ensures excellence in the District by encouraging creative teaching, student development, and enhanced community/school partnerships. Since its inception, the Foundation has distributed over $5 million for the benefit of District students. In the early 1990’s, the Foundation raised funds to equip “electronic classrooms” in the District’s middle schools. The Foundation conducted the “Tools for Schools” campaign in the year 2000 to provide resources for course materials in grades 4-10. This effort raised $208,000 from the Lancaster Community, and an additional $100,000 in matching funds through the generosity of the John Frederick Steinman and James Hale Steinman Foundations.
Through the ongoing Venture Grant program, District staff may apply for funds that give teachers an opportunity to put innovative ideas into practice. Venture grants are effective because they put funds directly into the classroom. In the past two years, approximately $200,000 has been provided though these Grants. The LFEE has been approved to receive Pennsylvania Educational Investment Tax Credits (EITC), and these donations directly support Venture Grants.
The Foundation manages resources for more than twenty scholarships, given annually to District students. These scholarships have been established either by individuals and families to honor a particular person or by a bequest. Additionally, due to its non-profit 501 (c) (3) status, the Foundation is a partner with the District in receiving grants for special uses.
The Foundation is a member of the Public Education Network, a national organization representing over 70 local education funds in 29 states and the District of Columbia. The mission of the Public Education Network is to create systems of public education that result in high achievement for every child.
Through PEN, the LFEE was awarded a “Schools and Communities” implementation grant in March, 2002. This work is a partnership with the School & Community Network, which seeks to involve community agencies and services in the life of the schools. This work is supported by a grant from the Lancaster County Community Foundation.
The Foundation board is made up of 28 members who meet six times per year. Operating independently from the District, Foundation trustees are corporate and community leaders who support high-quality public education for young minds.