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Board praises Issaquah Schools Foundation partnership, discusses ways to showcase foundation-funded programs
Summary
Board members recapped a recent meeting with the Issaquah Schools Foundation and discussed featuring foundation-funded classroom programs during board meetings and outreach to broaden community awareness.
Board members reported on a recent joint meeting with the Issaquah Schools Foundation leadership and described the foundation's role in funding pilots and programs the district would not otherwise support. Directors said the foundation helps underwrite innovation and local programs that address gaps not covered by state funding.
Director Coyne (a former foundation board member) said the foundation "plays a really unique role" in supporting classroom pilots and innovation. Board members highlighted several foundation‑funded efforts presented at an Impact and Action event: a community‑based homework club serving students at Endeavor Elementary School, a Buddy Hall program at Beaver Lake Middle School that operates within the school day, and an ISF tutoring program at Skyline High School. Directors noted these programs not only produced academic support but also improved student confidence and engagement.
Board members said they want more frequent opportunities to spotlight foundation work during board meetings so the community understands where non‑tax funding is supporting student experiences. Directors also discussed how the foundation can help pilot small, targeted programs (for example, small‑scale electives such as a zoology or geology course at a single school) before the district considers scaling across multiple sites.
The board noted the Issaquah Schools Foundation's upcoming Nourish Every Mind fundraising event on Thursday, May 1, at noon at the Issaquah Community Center and encouraged community members to attend.
