Frequently Asked.

What is an Education Foundation?

An Education Foundation is a non-profit, non-partisan, tax-exempt organization formed under Connecticut State Statutes for the purpose of educational support. Education foundations often act as charitable benefactors, raising funds for and awarding scholarships and grants. The East Lyme Education Foundation’s mission is to promote and enhance education within the public schools of East Lyme through financial support of education, enrichment programs and innovative initiatives not typically supported by regular governmental funding for the Town of East Lyme.

Why should I give to the East Lyme Education Foundation?

By donating to the East Lyme Education Foundation, you can have a remarkable impact on the future of the youth of East Lyme. The outstanding quality of our East Lyme Public Schools sustains the vibrancy of our community by bringing new families to our town. In these tight budget years, the Foundation can help maintain and enhance the excellence of East Lyme’s schools by funding grants to teaching staff for programs and items not included in the regular school budget.

For those of you who are recipients of an East Lyme K-12 education, supporting the Education Foundation is a way to “pay it forward” and to say thank you to all the staff who helped you along the way.

As a donor, how do I know that my donation has made an impact?

The Grant Committee will conduct an evaluation of every funded grant. The results will be posted on our website. In addition, at the end of each school year, A Celebration of Excellence will be held to showcase the Grant Proposals for that year.

Who manages the money raised by the Foundation?

The East Lyme Education Foundation is governed under the Foundation’s bylaws by a Board of Directors. The Board has control and supervision of all affairs and properties of the Corporation including finances, fund-raising, and awarding of grants.

Who can apply for a grant?

Any member or group of members of the East Lyme teaching staff may apply for a Grant from the Foundation.

How do I apply for a grant?

The Foundation Grant Application will be available digitally on our website.

When should I apply for a grant?

There will be a Fall Grant submission (November deadline) and a Spring Grant submission (April deadline). In 2025, we anticipate only having a Spring Grant submission cycle 

What types of Education proposals is the Foundation looking for?

The Foundation is looking for creative and innovative projects that will enhance student achievement and student engagement in a classroom or across a grade level or academic department. The proposal must have specific objectives, align with the curriculum, include clear methods of assessing enhanced learning, and a clear itemized budget.