About ELF
The Easton Learning Foundation (ELF) is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing educational excellence for the children of Easton Public Shools. ELF was founded in 2004 by a group of community volunteers and educators. ELF's tax ID is 41-2149638.
Grants
We want children to learn from teachers who are excited, engaged and reflective professionals. Our grants program enables Easton and Region 9 (Joel Barlow High School) teachers to search for effective, creative strategies to ensure that every child receives an excellent education.
To help teachers improve the quality of instruction so every child can reach his or her potential, our grant programs:
- encourage teachers to critique instructional practices and seek solutions through innovation, research, study, professional growth, and supporting materials
- support teachers who show enthusiasm and intellectual curiosity about education and subject matter, and who think deeply about the needs of every student
- seed new ideas and approaches to teaching that demonstrate potential widespread application across the school system
- encourage applications not only from teachers but also administrators, teacher-student teams and local organizations or individuals who wish to partner with our schools to provide the kind of innovative and unique educational opportunities that keep Easton schools at the forefront of education in our area
Fundraisers and Events
Our generous donors make ELF grants and programs possible. We raise money from individuals and businesses through direct appeals, community events such as our Sports Equipment Sale, and our STARS program (School Teachers Are Really Special) which enables parents and students to honor teachers and staff while supporting the Foundation.
ELF co-funds grants at Joel Barlow High School with our sister organization, the Redding Education Foundation (REF). We also co-fund and co-sponsor some grants with school and local organzations such as the Easton PTA, the Easton Historical Society, and the Easton Public Library.
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As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, ELF donations are tax-deductible. ELF funds do not substitute for, replace, or relieve responsibility for taxpayer funding of the public schools. ELF is non-political. |
Board of Directors
Since its founding in 2004, ELF has been governed by a non-salaried all volunteer board which seeks to represent a cross-section of the community. Our Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent assist our board in a non-voting ex-officio capacity. We also depend on many volunteers for help with our programs, events and publications.
To ensure our programs are relevant and effective, we work closely with Easton pubic schools. The Foundation is a private, separate entity, however, and makes decisions independently.
Membership
ELF is a member of the Connecticut Consortium of Education Foundations.
