Our mission is to enrich, support, and promote innovation for the students and teachers of the Gilbert Public School District. Founded in 2001, the Gilbert Education Foundation (GEF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit
organization. Tax ID#86-1023126
Our mission aligns with the needs of the district but we are a separate entity with our own board of directors and staff and comply with the IRS rules and regulations to retain our tax-exempt status. Our board is comprised of business leaders with large corporations such as Orbital, Dignity Health and other midsize local firms such as architecture, construction companies, etc.
Over the last 21 years, through events, grants, donations and corporate sponsors GEF have raised and contributed over $2.4 MM to students, staff and programs in Gilbert Public Schools (GPS).
GPS enrolls on average 35,000 students and employs more than 4,500 people. It is the largest employer in the Town of Gilbert. So, we not only benefit students, but our impact stretches deep into the community to all whom live and work in Gilbert.
- We provide Senior Scholarships to GPS graduates that enable students to attend college or learn a trade.
- We provide scholarships for GPS educators to improve their skills, further their education and put that knowledge right back into students of GPS.
- Our S.H.A.N.E. program provides social services to at risk families and employees within the district.
- We promote community engagement and volunteerism through our Varsity Letter in Volunteerism program
- We support technology in the classroom and STEM education projects and curriculum
- We provide enrichment district-wide which has included: school therapy dog, guest speakers, curriculum items and materials, after school programs, art fairs, and much more.
Our Team
- Theresa Dootson, Executive Dir.
- President: Lori Gauna – Retired, Town of Gilbert
- Secretary – Serena English, ESI
- Treasurer – Kimberly McAlevy – School Specialty, Inc.
- Member – Aaron Salvo, Dignity Health
Gilbert Public School Liaisons
- Dr. Shane McCord, Superintendent
- Lori Wood, Gilbert Public Schools Governing Board
- Shawnda Harmsen – GPS Social Worker – S.H.A.N.E. Program Liaison