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New DeKalb Schools Foundation outlines strategy while trustees press for separation and transparency
Summary
Patricia Smith, chair of the DeKalb Schools Educational Foundation, described incorporation steps, committees and upcoming donor events; trustees welcomed the foundation but several urged a clear separation between the board and foundation membership and asked for a comprehensive list of school foundations to avoid omissions.
The DeKalb Schools Educational Foundation presented its formation timeline, structure and immediate plans to the school board on Aug. 12.
Patricia Smith, foundation chair, told trustees the board of the foundation has completed bylaws, obtained an EIN, adopted a conflict‑of‑interest policy and is pursuing federal tax‑exempt recognition (Form 1023). The foundation described four standing committees (finance oversight; survey/composition; fundraising; enrichment and scholarships), a potential signature event in 2025, and near‑term activities including a Brunch & Brag on Sept. 26 and a Presentation Day on Oct. 17.
Multiple trustees expressed support, but several raised governance questions about the selection process for foundation board members and the need for a clear “wall” between the district and the foundation. Trustee Dr. Morley spoke at length about historical concerns related to earlier foundation efforts and urged clear boundaries and public involvement in any member selection. Trustees asked staff to confirm a list of school‑level foundations and promised invitations to foundation events while emphasizing that board members should avoid influencing foundation operations.
Why it matters: District foundations can expand fundraising capacity for scholarships and enrichment, but trustees emphasized that public trust requires transparency about appointments, conflicts of interest and how the foundation will coordinate with school‑level foundations.
What’s next: Foundation staff will finalize federal filings and return with updates; administrators said they would share the full list of school foundations and coordinate event invitations.
