Schools

DEF Doles Out Grants for Teachers

The 20-year-old non-profit eclipsed the $300,000 level for contributions to Dedham teachers.

Teachers in the Dedham Public Schools system received a big boost last week at the from the Dedham Education Foundation to the tune of $21,000 - the most given out in the organization's 20-year history.

The money will help fund projects, buy equipment and supplies and allow students to take field trips to enhance their education.

Requests funded this year included student trips to the Museum of Science, Museum of Fine Arts, Minuteman National Park, and the Institute of Contemporary Art, familiar programs such as “Read-Write-Win,” the Lowell Mill Girls presentation at the Tsongas Industrial Center in Lowell, the Birds of Prey at the Trailside Museum, presentations on bullying, health and social skills, and books, materials and equipment for music, arts and science programs.

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“This event is really about recognizing the tremendous talent, energy and creativity that exists among the teachers in our schools,” said Steve Bilafer, president of the DEF. “We are heartened that we are able to do more each year to support their efforts and make these excellent programs possible for our students. Every year, we say we wish we could do more. This year, we did – and we hope to set a new record again next year.”

Since its inception in 1991, DEF has donated more than $300,000, according to the foundation.

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The DEF received 54 grant requests, and filled 33 of them.

“We could not do what we do without the incredible community support from parents, friends, alumni and businesses, all of whom have donated so much throughout the years to the DEF,” Bilafer said.


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