The Dorchester District 2 (DD2) Education Foundation has released its 2023-24 Annual Impact Report, providing an in-depth look at how their initiatives have positively shaped the educational landscape of the district. From financial support to innovative programs, the Foundation has played a pivotal role in enhancing the experiences of students, teachers, and the broader community. Below is a detailed breakdown of the key initiatives and their impacts over the past year.
Financial Contributions & Community Support
Over $400,000 Infused into DD2 Schools: The Foundation raised more than $400,000 in the 2023-24 school year, directly benefiting over a quarter of all DD2 students and teachers.
1,588 Donations: Community members, businesses, and partners made significant contributions that supported various programs, reinforcing the district’s commitment to innovation in the classroom.
"$2 for Two" Initiative: This recurring donation program enables local businesses, households, and individuals to make small but continuous contributions to fund educational initiatives, teacher projects, and student needs.
Impact on Students & Teachers
Classroom Grants: More than $200,000 was directed into classrooms for projects requested by educators, with significant support from partners such as Bosch, Boeing, the Summerville Italian Feast, and DonorsChoose.
Teacher Support & Morale: To boost teacher morale, the Foundation invested over $15,000 in first-year teacher support, another $15,000 for Teacher Appreciation Week, and an additional $10,000 for teacher incentives. This helped foster a positive environment and retain talented educators within the district.
Professional Development: The Foundation funded several professional development (PD) opportunities for teachers, including resources for a summer Math Academy for 3rd-5th grade educators, sponsoring speakers in schools, and sending teachers to present at national conferences.
Health, Safety, and Technology
Weapons Detection K-9 "Chester": The Foundation purchased Chester, a K-9 trained to detect weapons, enhancing campus security and creating safer learning environments.
Solar Panel Installation: Through a grant from Bosch, solar panels were installed at Fox Ridge Farm at Ashley Ridge High School. This initiative was designed to demonstrate how renewable energy can support agriculture education and sustainability practices within the district.
Meatball Run 5K: In partnership with the Summerville Italian Feast, the Foundation funded the first-ever Meatball Run 5K, providing cross-country students at all three high schools the opportunity to participate in this community event.
Supporting STEAM & Robotics
HOSA Leadership Conference: The Foundation’s continued support of Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) programs allowed students to attend the International Leadership Conference, where they achieved second- and fourth-place finishes on the global stage.
Robotics Competitions: Robotics students from Summerville High, Ashley Ridge High, and Summerville Elementary were supported in their efforts to attend national
competitions, showcasing their skills and promoting STEM education within the district.
Flex Farm Hydroponics: The Foundation helped bring hydroponic gardens to five
classrooms, promoting STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) education for 4K students, demonstrating innovative farming techniques.
Arts & Community Engagement
Arts Funding and Fine Arts Initiatives: The Foundation partnered with DD2’s Fine Arts Department to showcase student talents in the community. They also supported the Artist-in-Residence program, which provided students with opportunities to work closely with professional artists.
Performances & Cultural Events: The Foundation sponsored a performance by Appalachian musician Philip Bowen, a finalist on America’s Got Talent, who provided lessons to students and performed at the Summers Corner Performing Arts Center (PAC). Additionally, they sponsored the SC Ballet’s Motown performance, bringing music and dance to the district.
Legacy Bricks: In collaboration with Summerville High School, students engraved bricks for the McKissick Museum, allowing community members to leave a lasting footprint of their legacy.
Summerville Christmas Parade: The Foundation hosted a float showcasing the district’s Teachers of the Year (TOY) winners, further fostering community support and recognition of outstanding educators.
Scholarships & Student Opportunities
Joseph R. Pye Legacy Scholarship: Named after former Superintendent Pye, the Foundation awarded three $2,000 scholarships to future educators. Additionally, students who remain on track to become educators receive $500 for years two through four, supporting their educational journeys.
National Recognition & Leadership
Executive Director Ralph Hayes became the first Certified Education Foundation Leader (CEFL) in South Carolina, completing a year-long certification process. Hayes also serves as a national board member for the National Association of Education Foundations and has presented at national conferences, representing DD2 on a broader stage.
Looking Ahead
The DD2 Education Foundation continues to build partnerships and drive innovations that benefit students and educators alike. With a clear mission to support public education and ensure that DD2 produces world-class, world-ready students, the Foundation’s work remains critical to the district’s ongoing success.
For more information on how to support the Foundation, visit https://dd2foundation.org.
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