There are a few question that we are asked frequently, so we thought we'd take a moment to answer those. If you have other questions about the BEF, please ask! We'd love to talk with you about the Foundation and how we work with the community to support the schools. 

For each question, just click on the + to see the answer. 

What does the Birmingham Education Foundation do? 

The Birmingham Education Foundation supports our schools by providing funding and support for great learning experiences that might otherwise be unattainable. We do this by working with the community to raise support that is distributed to our schools through our teacher grants program. Teachers and school staff who have an exciting, innovative idea are able to apply for a BEF grant at any point during the school year. 

What Types of Projects do you fund?

The BEF funds projects that will have a direct impact on student learning in these areas: arts, academics, athletics, STEM (science, technology, engineering & math), character education and mental health. Each grant funded project is unique, ranging from bringing experts to our school to work with students, to funding the purchase of equipment and supplies that make innovative projects possible, to sending students out of their schools for unique experiences. 

Why does a public school need a foundation? 

Time and time again, Birmingham Public Schools has been named one of the top school districts in our state. But even top districts are impacted by school funding decisions made at the state level. When you adjust for inflation, our schools are receiving less funding per student than they were in the 1990's, despite being asked to do more and more for students. 

The fundraising efforts of the Birmingham Education Foundation are able to assist our schools, by granting funds for those things that might otherwise go unfunded in our schools. This includes funding pilot programs, purchasing expensive pieces of equipment, allowing schools to bring unique and enriching programming to our students, and so much more. Funds donated to the BEF directly impact the quality of learning in classrooms by giving teachers the ability to apply for funding that will support the learning of the students in their classes. 

Do other Public Schools have Foundations?

Yes. According to the National School Foundation Association, there are more than 4,800 Education Foundations nationwide and at least 200 in Michigan. The BEF is proud to be a part of the Michigan Education Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization comprised of Michigan School Foundation administrators, executive directors and board trustees. Its mission is to be a catalyst for the creation and growth of local education foundations through collaboration, philanthropic leadership, professional development and networking., 

Who is involved in directing the BEF?

The BEF is governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees, comprised of parents of current students, alumni, teachers, parents of alumni, school staff, school board members, and business leaders. We strive to have a board that is representative of the community that we serve. All members of the board believe that a strong school district is important for students, as well as being a vital part of having a strong community. To learn more about joining the BEF Board of Trustees, please email [email protected].  

How can I get involved with the BEF?

There are many ways to get involved! You can attend or volunteer for one of our events, make a gift to the foundation, or reach out to learn more about serving on one of our planning committees. To learn more about any of these opportunities, contact Executive Director Kathy Zanolli at [email protected]

Can I make a gift to support a program I care about?

The primary mission of the BEF is to support all BPS students, regardless of the school they attend. That said, we are able to work with donors who would like to make more directed gifts. For more information, please contact our office by calling 248-203-3030 or emailing us at [email protected]. 

Does the BEF offer scholarships?

Our community is fortunate to have the Birmingham Student Scholarship Fund Association, better known as SCHOLAR to assist with student scholarships. For more than 75 years, SCHOLAR has been providing college financial assistance to students who reside within the boundaries of the Birmingham School District upon high school graduation. Because this need is already being met in our community, the BEF does not offer any kind of assistance to individual students. For more information on SCHOLAR, please visit their website: www.scholarbirmingham.org.