Tammy Chase, executive director of the Mercer Island Schools Foundation, told attendees the foundation raised a record $623,000 during its September–December All In for Kids fall campaign and had reached $756,000 as of the meeting day, roughly $200,000 more than the same time last year.

Chase said the foundation awarded 74 teacher grants this year, spending $85,500 — nine grants more and more funding than the prior year — and that the fall event raised $182,000 in gross proceeds, including about $25,000 in sponsorships. She also reported the foundation received a $100,000 gift this season and referenced prior large gifts that helped build reserves.

The foundation is adding staff: Chase said the organization recently hired a development manager and a database manager to support donor outreach and data cleanup. She said the group plans student-centered storytelling for the spring fundraising breakfast, will continue an art contest for students, and is running a Valentine’s fundraiser that sends cards and small gifts to teachers for donations above a set level.

On legacy giving and naming, Chase said a community committee has developed an approach that would recognize one or two individuals annually “who’ve left a legacy in the district.” She said the committee’s draft would separate recognition from direct financial commitments but could provide a channel for donors who wish to make gifts linked to a particular program or facility. Chase emphasized the committee’s work has not been presented to, or voted on by, the school board and said the next step is a study-session presentation to the board.

Board members and meeting participants recommended continuing translation and outreach efforts for events, using student hosts at the breakfast and expanding social-media outreach. Chase asked trustees and city representatives to help amplify foundation posts and to refer potential board candidates.

The foundation presentation concluded with a request for volunteers to help with new-family outreach and other event support, and with an invitation to the district breakfast that the foundation organizes as a major spring fundraiser.