Upper Arlington Education Foundation

The Upper Arlington Education Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and enriching the educational experience for students within the Upper Arlington school district. Established to challenge and support every student at every stage of their education, the foundation plays a crucial role in providing resources that go beyond the school district's budget.

Mission and Objectives

The mission of the Upper Arlington Education Foundation is to build and maintain a community trust that provides funding for superior, innovative educational initiatives. This involves enhancing existing programs, furnishing essential supplies, providing scholarships, and meeting other needs that exceed the school district's capacity.

Funding Sources

A significant source of funding for the foundation comes from its annual event, the Golden Bear Bash. This event, held since 1985, serves as a key fundraiser, allowing the foundation to carry out its mission effectively. Additionally, the organization relies heavily on contributions from the community, with donations making up a substantial portion of its revenue[1].

Activities and Initiatives

The Upper Arlington Education Foundation supports a variety of educational projects and initiatives. In recent years, these have included supporting events like the UA High School's hUmAn Connection Festival, providing whiteboards for vertical math lessons, assisting with visual art noise reduction for sensory-sensitive learners, and installing a bike shed at Hastings Middle School[2]. The foundation also supports programs such as the UAHS Beartique (a free store), Tremont Elementary Music Risers, and educational equipment for various schools[4].

Governance and Leadership

The foundation is led by a board of trustees whose members are committed to ensuring the organization's success and transparency. Governance practices include formal board orientation and CEO oversight, with a focus on maintaining ethical standards and reviewing conflict-of-interest policies regularly[3].

Financial Overview

The Upper Arlington Education Foundation manages its finances with care, ensuring that donations and other revenue streams are used effectively to support educational initiatives. In 2023, the foundation granted $185,618 to support educational projects, reflecting its commitment to enhancing education within the community[5].

[1] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/311156964 [2] https://upperarlingtonoh.gov/ua-education-foundation-golden-bear-bash/ [3] https://www.guidestar.org/profile/31-1156964 [4] https://www.uaeducationfoundation.com [5] https://www.instrumentl.com/990-report/upper-arlington-education-foundation