New Coats for Kids Drive: Helping Students and Families Stay Warm this Winter

North Thurston Education Foundation (NTEF) is calling on the community to join our mission to keep North Thurston Public School students warm this winter by donating new coats in all sizes. We aim to collect 1,000 coats to ensure that every student in need has access to essential winter clothing as temperatures continue to drop.

Throughout the year, NTEF partners with local businesses to provide drop-off locations for donations. These partnerships enable us to meet the growing needs of students facing economic challenges in our community. Right now, as nighttime temperatures hover near freezing, the demand for warm winter coats is greater than ever.

NTEF is a Lacey-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to mobilizing resources to enrich student programs, meet basic needs, and enhance educational opportunities across North Thurston Public Schools. We envision a school system where every student, regardless of background or financial status, has the resources to thrive and reach their full potential.

The Need
North Thurston Public Schools currently serves nearly 14,600 students, with an increasing number identified as vulnerable. Last school year alone, 1,024 students were classified as homeless, and 44% (6,469 students) qualified for free and reduced-price meals. These figures have risen significantly, underscoring the critical role of community support in meeting the needs of our children.

How You Can Help
Anyone can help by donating a new winter coat in any size—or a warm hoodie for teens in adult sizes—at any of our partner drop-off locations:

  • Vert Chiropractic: 4444 Lacey Blvd SE, Lacey, WA 98503 (open during business hours)
  • Lacey South Sound Chamber: 3925 8th Ave SE Suite C, Lacey, WA 98503 (Monday – Thursday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.)
  • 4th Dimension Computers: 3315 Pacific Ave Suite B2, Olympia, WA 98501 (open during business hours)
  • Café Elite:130 Marvin Rd SE Ste 130, Lacey, WA 98503 (anytime open)

For questions or to arrange a donation drop-off directly, please get in touch with Deanna East, NTEF Executive Director, at [email protected].

New Coats for Kids Drive: Helping Students and Families Stay Warm this Winter

Quick Details:

  • Who: North Thurston Education Foundation
  • What: New Coats for Kids Drive
  • When: November 11 – December 20, 2024
  • Donations: Donate here

August is Make a Will Month

Dear Friends,

August is Make A Will Month, and it’s a great time to think about planning for the future. You might think that writing a will is only for people with lots of money or property, but that’s not true at all. A will is important for many reasons and does much more than just deciding who gets your belongings.

You might also believe that if your family knows what you want, you don’t need a will. However, without a will, a court will make decisions based on local laws, which can lead to delays and extra costs. It’s better to have your wishes clearly written down.

In addition to taking care of your loved ones, this is your opportunity to support the causes that matter to you. Please consider making a legacy gift to the North Thurston Education Foundation. Your support makes a huge difference in the lives of our homeless and low-income students, helping them get the basic needs and resources necessary for success in school.

To learn more and start your will, visit Leave 10 South Sound. Making a will is a small step that can make a big difference for the people and causes you care about.

Thank you for supporting the North Thurston Education Foundation and for thinking about your legacy.

Best wishes,
Deanna East
Executive Director
North Thurston Education Foundation
[email protected]
(360) 628-3281

P.S. If you have already made arrangements for a planned gift, please let us know by
completing this form and let us know if you would like to be listed on our website in our FRIENDS OF THE FOUNDATION

North Thurston Education Foundations Tax ID #: 91-1433235

Sue Shannon Memorial Fund

Update: Sue Shannon, founding member and longtime Executive Director of North Thurston Education Foundation (NTEF), passed away in May. Her Memorial Service will be held on October 5 at 2 p.m. at Olympia First Baptist Church, 9th & Washington. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to a fund in her name here https://bit.ly/3Vm4e6L

The North Thurston Education Foundation (NTEF) mourns the passing of Dr. G. Sue Shannon, a driving force behind its inception and success. Sue was integral to the Foundation from its earliest days, joining the organizing effort in 1988 and becoming the Volunteer Executive Director when NTEF was officially established in 1990. She remained in this role until her retirement in 2016.

Sue Shannon’s dedication and vision were instrumental in shaping NTEF into one of the first foundations committed to removing barriers for students and empowering them to change their futures. Her tireless work transformed countless lives, leaving an enduring legacy within the community. Sue’s guiding presence will be profoundly missed, but her spirit of compassion and commitment will continue to inspire and propel NTEF forward.

Before passing in May 2024, Sue was actively involved in raising $100,000 for Student Assistance Grants. Sue wrote in her last email to the NTEF committee, “Student Assistance Grants is descriptive and ties to the Foundation history. We started that program in the early years as one of the major purposes of the Foundation. The list of items (below) are the types of things we [funded].” – Sue Shannon, May 20, 2024.

  • Instrument rentals
  • Special needs equipment
  • Medications
  • Glasses
  • Clothing, shoes, and coats
  • Socks and underwear
  • Testing fees
  • Backpacks and school supplies
  • Athletic fees or ASB cards
  • Sports camps
  • Food
  • Uniforms or cleats
  • Hygiene supplies
  • Field trip fees
  • Class fees
  • Chromebook repairs
  • Credit retrieval classes
  • ID and birth certificates
  • Gas cards

To honor Sue’s legacy, the NTEF Committee will continue this fundraising project in her memory. Donations to the Sue Shannon Memorial Fund will support Student Assistance Grants, providing crucial resources to students in need.

Donations can be made here:

https://bit.ly/3Vm4e6L

 

North Thurston Education Foundation Awards $128,500 in Scholarships to 24 Students

The North Thurston Education Foundation has awarded scholarships with a total value of $128,500 to 24 graduating seniors from North Thurston Public Schools.

Scholarships awarded range from $2,500 to $14,000. The NTEF Scholarship Committee evaluated applications on several factors, including academic achievement, school and community activities, references, quality of the required essay and financial need.

The following graduating seniors received this year’s awards:

Named Scholarships: The scholarship program includes designated named endowed scholarships and Foundation-funded scholarships.

In 2024, 24 named scholarships were awarded to the following students:

Alex Ward Memorial Scholarship – Joshua Valerlo, North Thurston High School

Bill Williams Memorial Scholarship – Vanessa Leavitt, Timberline High School

Charles E. Callahan Education Scholarship – Megan Jackson, Envision Career Academy

Colton Thorstrom Smith Scholarship – Victoria Cabo-Schultz, River Ridge High School

Lisa Corwin Memorial Scholarship – Aylana Young, North Thurston High School

Davies Vocational-Technical Scholarship – Karen Ayala-Dominguez, River Ridge High School

Frank Parker Memorial Scholarship – Brandon Fogleman, Timberline High School

Friendship and Family Scholarship – Jaydn Kress, Timberline High School

James Koval Memorial Scholarship – Ashley Ackerson, Timberline High School

Jeannette Hostetter Ford Memorial Scholarship – Benjamin McElroy, Summit

John Gott Education Scholarship – Ariana Jackson, Timberline High School

Roy Pedersen Memorial Scholarship – Ryan Crowley, Timberline High School

Dr. G. Sue Shannon Scholarship – Ariel Searcy, River Ridge High School

Nicholas T. Walker Scholarship – Caitlin Grygorcewicz, Timberline High School

Ethel & Vaughn F. Philpot Scholarship – Tan Mai, Timberline High School

Rahman Family Scholarship – Alexander McElroy, Summit

Gillis Breaking Barrier Scholarship – Susanne Le, River Ridge High School

Porter Scholarship for Hope – Jersie Hendrickson, Timberline High School

Skip Scoggin in Scholarship – Elijah Yoshioka, North Thurston High School

Supporting Women in STEM Scholarship – Paige Wood, Timberline High School

Lewis R. Hawthorne & Edna C. Hawthorne Scholarships –

  • Isaac Perez Osuna, Timberline High School
  • Da’Laijha Tate, Timberline High School
  • Karla Bazail, North Thurston High School
  • Preceise Anvia Koto, North Thurston High School

To view a list of scholarship establishment history and details, visit: https://ntef.org/special-named-endowed-scholarships/

Basic Needs Food Drive

 

Please join us in making a difference by participating in our Basic Needs Drive. We’re collecting essential items for the North Thurston Public Schools (NTPS) Family & Youth Resource Center (FYRCor FYR Center), a crucial support system for NTPS families and students facing hardships.

Did you know? Over 900 students in our district are experiencing homelessness, and nearly half of our students qualify for Free or Reduced lunch. These numbers highlight the pressing need to ensure every student has access to the basic necessities to thrive at school. We’re currently seeking donations of full-size hygiene and cleaning supplies, including:

  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Body Lotion
  • Sanitary Pads
  • Dish Soap
  • Laundry Pods

Additionally, we need of new packages of boys’ and girls’ underwear and socks in all sizes.

Here’s how you can help. Donate any of the listed items before June 15th to:

Lacey Hops n Drops: 4739 Avery Ln SE, Lacey, WA 98503 (anytime open)

Lacey America’s Credit Union: 8308 Quinault Dr. NE, Lacey, Washington 98516 (anytime open)

Lacey South Sound Chamber Office: 3925 8th Ave SE Suite C, Lacey, WA 98503 Monday–Thursday 10-4 

4th Dimension Computers: 3315 Pacific Ave Suite B2, Olympia, WA 98501 (Anytime open)

If you have questions about how you can support the struggling students and families in our community, please contact:
Deanna East
Executive Director
North Thurston Education Foundation
[email protected]
(360) 628-3281

Help us Continue the McGimpsey Legacy

In North Thurston Public Schools, many students face the daily challenge of attending classes without basic necessities like toothpaste or enough food. The McGimpsey Pantries program, initiated in 2007 and named after local philanthropists John and Opal McGimpsey, has been a lifeline for these students.

Born from their humble beginnings during the Great Depression, John, a proud veteran who served his country during World War II, and Opal, a beacon of strength during the Dust Bowl era, understood firsthand the struggles of going without. Their experiences fueled a deep-seated desire to make a difference, particularly for the youth in their community.

Initially funded by the McGimpsey’s with $700,000 over three years, the program provides essential supplies like school materials, toiletries, clothing, and food to homeless and underprivileged students in North Thurston Public Schools. Today, every school in the district has a McGimsey Pantry and access to NTEF Student Assistance Funds which support students on Free/Reduced Lunch Program with educational opportunities like class/credit recovery fees, ASB cards for sport participation or music rentals. With approximately 6,300 students qualifying for free and reduced lunch and over 900 experiencing homelessness last year, the need is profound. 

Following the wishes of the McGimpsey’s—John, who passed away in 2014, and Opal, who passed away in 2015—the North Thurston Education Foundation utilized their generous gift to support students in need and ensure no students went hungry. However, the funds have now been fully expended, yet the demand for support remains as pressing as ever. We urgently need your help to ensure that we can continue providing essential assistance to these students. Your contribution can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.

The McGimpsey Pantry and Student Assistance Program is a vital resource for our homeless and low-income students, providing them with the basic necessities they need to thrive and access to programs that charge for participation. It’s not just about meeting physical needs; it’s about ensuring that students have the resources required to focus on their education without the burden of hunger, inadequate hygiene, or financial constraints limiting their participation. Equitable access to all educational programs and support is crucial to ending the cycle of poverty.

The needs of our students persist and continue to grow. Every student deserves a safe environment to learn, grow, and access to education for a brighter future. We urgently seek your help to ensure that every student, regardless of their circumstances, has the tools they need to succeed. Your support today will have a lasting impact on the lives of countless students tomorrow. Join us in honoring the spirit of compassion and generosity embodied by John and Opal McGimpsey. Learn more about how you can contribute to the McGimpsey Pantries program and help us continue their remarkable legacy at Student Assistance Grants – North Thurston Education Foundation (ntef.org).

Scholarship Thank You, From Kaelynn Sharp

Dear Hawthorne Family,

As I approach the end of my academic career, I am writing to express my sincere gratitude. Words cannot describe how appreciative I am for how much this scholarship has supported me over these past two years. Receiving this scholarship not only alleviated the financial burden of a college education but also served as a source of immense motivation for me to pursue my dream of working in the healthcare field. As I am only working a minimum-wage job, your generosity has allowed me to focus on my studies. This shows through everything that I have accomplished so far, as I have maintained a consistent 3.5-4.0 GPA. I am truly humbled to have your family as well as the NTEF who have believed in and supported me since the beginning.

These past two quarters have been exceptionally exciting as I was accepted into TCC’s Respiratory Care Program last August. It has always been my goal to work in healthcare, just like my father. His love for the field has instilled in me a passion for helping others and building positive patient outcomes through compassion and hard work. Finally, being able to learn about my specific field and work with respiratory patients has only deepened my sense of belonging and enthusiasm for the future. In June 2025, I will graduate with an Associate in Applied Sciences Degree in Respiratory Therapy.

Once again, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support and for making such a positive impact on my life.

Sincerely,
Kaelynn Sharp

Thank you from Isatou Barrow

March 25, 2024

Dear North Thurston Education Foundation,  Lewis R. Hawthorne, and Edna C. Hawthorne,

If anyone had told me two years ago that I would be attending college and pursuing my dreams without worrying about finances, I would never have believed it. You gave me the chance of a lifetime and the hope of seeing dreams come to reality, for which I am forever grateful.

Starting my first quarter at the University of Washington in 2023 marked the beginning of my academic journey. Determined to uphold the academic standards I had maintained throughout high school, I embarked on this new chapter of my education. I have faced numerous challenges throughout my college journey, gained valuable insights, and reached significant milestones.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my academic progress has been the opportunity to delve deeply into my chosen field of study. From foundational courses to advanced seminars, I have embraced the opportunity to expand my knowledge and develop a deeper understanding of key concepts and theories. Engaging with passionate professors and peers has enriched my learning experience, allowing me to explore diverse perspectives and foster critical thinking skills.

Despite the many rewards of higher education, I have also faced challenges. Balancing multiple STEM courses, extracurricular activities, and personal commitments has sometimes proved daunting. However, through careful time management and perseverance, I have been able to overcome obstacles and stay on track towards achieving my academic goals.

As an active member of the Black Student Union, African Students Association, and Africans in Medicine, I have had the opportunity to meet and connect with many amazing people who share similar experiences with me. As a member of these organizations, I Actively participated in planning and organizing events and initiatives to promote cultural awareness, diversity, and inclusion on campus. I also collaborated with fellow members to facilitate discussions, workshops, and events addressing issues affecting the Black and African community.

I am also a member of A Vision for Engineering Literacy and Access (AVELA). I partner with the Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine to conduct research, create STEM workshops, and teach k-12 children from underrepresented backgrounds. This is especially important because I can give back to my community. I have also recently been elected as the Director of Fundraising for the University of Washington Engineering Without Borders chapter, and I am looking forward to serving my club to the best of my abilities. Another thing I found myself heavily involved in this year was the student body. I have been an active senator since October 2023. I took on this role because I am passionate about amplifying student voices and promoting student engagement. As a member of the General Affairs Committee, I advocate for student issues and participate in decision-making. I am currently running for the position of Director of University Affairs for the ASUW. In this role, I seek to foster meaningful engagement, influence university policies, and address student concerns effectively, ultimately contributing to a thriving and inclusive campus community.

In terms of achievements, I have been working tirelessly to maintain a strong academic record while actively participating in campus organizations and community service initiatives. Whether conducting research, organizing events, or volunteering in the community, I have sought to make the most of my time outside the classroom and contribute positively to my campus and local community. Looking ahead, I am excited to continue my academic journey and pursue opportunities for growth and exploration in Biochemistry. With each new challenge and achievement, I am confident I will continue learning and evolving as a scholar and a global citizen. Thank you for believing in me and allowing me to achieve my dreams.

Sincerely,
Isatou Barrow

Welcoming Deanna East as the Foundation’s New Executive Director

We are pleased to announce that after an extensive search, we have hired a new Executive Director, Deanna East. East will begin on August 1, 2023. 

 

Deanna East is a highly experienced professional with 20 years of experience in public education and a steadfast commitment to improving educational outcomes. Her impact extends beyond the classroom, making a profound difference in the lives of students and families.

 

While working as a Health Room Assistant at Timberline High School in 2005, Deanna became aware of the presence of homeless students within the system. This discovery ignited her passion to address their needs, leading her to establish programs that provided essential resources and support. Deanna’s dedication extended further as she actively served on the executive boards of nonprofits dedicated to supporting students and homeless populations.

 

Deanna’s impact extended beyond Timberline High School. Raising her two children who attended North Thurston Public Schools from Kindergarten through 12th grade, she was a frequent volunteer at not only each of their schools but in many other support organizations as well. Her boys both graduated from Timberline High School. Through her active involvement as a parent, Deanna strengthened her personal connection to the community and deepened her commitment to fostering educational success for all students.

 

For over a decade, Deanna’s powerful advocacy and inspiring stories have reached a wide audience. As a keynote speaker for Homeless Backpack (now All Kids Win) and through her active involvement with the North Thurston Education Foundation, Deanna has tirelessly advocated for students facing challenges. She consistently seeks out opportunities to raise awareness and secure new resources to support their needs. Her unwavering dedication to empowering students is a driving force behind her advocacy efforts.

 

In 2017, Deanna seized the opportunity to serve as a McKinney Vento Homeless Student Navigator at the NTPS district office. Over the next five years, she dedicated herself to providing unwavering support to homeless students and their families, guiding them through available programs and ensuring their success in school. Deanna’s efforts not only improved graduation rates for McKinney Vento students but also inspired many to pursue post-secondary education.

 

In March 2022, Deanna joined Capital Region ESD113 as a Coordinator for the Attendance and Reengagement Project. Collaborating with OSPI and 8 other ESD Coordinators across Washington, Deanna leveraged research and best practices to train districts on building effective Attendance Teams. Her role involved working closely with district and school teams to enhance proactive approaches to attendance, develop re-engagement systems, and utilize real-time attendance data for structured support, all aimed at improving attendance and engagement.

 

Now, as the Executive Director of the North Thurston Education Foundation, Deanna’s vast experience and unwavering dedication continue to transform the lives of countless young individuals in the community.

Deanna East, (360) 628-3281

[email protected]

Job Description: Executive Director for North Thurston Education Foundation

Job Description: Executive Director for North Thurston Education Foundation

POSITION CLOSES: JUNE 27, 2023

To apply for this position, please send your application to Blake Knoblauch, Board President of the North Thurston Education Foundation, at [email protected].

The North Thurston Education Foundation (NTEF) is seeking a motivated and creative self-starter for the position of Executive Director. As the Executive Director, you will be responsible for assisting the Board of Trustees in expanding the organization’s capacity to meet the growing educational needs of the community. This includes program management, fundraising and resource development, asset stewardship, communications and partnerships, and organizational administration.

The NTEF is an independent, not-for-profit, community-based organization that mobilizes financial, leadership, and other resources to enrich programs and enhance educational opportunities for students and staff of North Thurston Public Schools. In the previous year, the Foundation raised $739,500 to support students and overcome educational obstacles where public funding is unavailable or inadequate. Examples of the Foundation’s impact include providing financial assistance for emergency needs, scholarships for higher education, direct aid for unique student learning opportunities, and grants for innovative education programs.

As the Executive Director, you will play a key role in implementing the recently established partnership agreement between NTEF and the North Thurston Public Schools. Your responsibilities will include serving as ex-officio and staff to the Board of Trustees and Executive Committee, providing administrative support, training, board development, planning, contract management, and other operational and administrative duties. You will also cultivate and maintain an excellent working relationship with the North Thurston Public Schools, coordinate committees, manage financial operations and reporting, and oversee program implementation, including scholarship awards and learning assistance grants

Additionally, you will be responsible for developing and strengthening community and business partnerships, increasing the visibility and outreach of the Foundation, managing communications through the website and social media platforms, and representing the Foundation as requested. Fundraising and development activities, including membership growth, securing in-kind donations, and working with contracted marketing agencies for reports and publications, will also be part of your role.

To excel in this position, you should have a passion for education and community-based organizations. A minimum of 3-5 years of related experience in the majority of areas of responsibility is preferred, and a bachelor’s degree is desirable. You should be committed to the Foundation’s mission and capable of working cooperatively with the Board of Trustees and Executive Committee. The ability to work independently with minimal supervision, financial and record-keeping skills, development experience, strong communication skills, proficiency in computer applications, and the ability to work effectively with external partners and stakeholders are essential.

The North Thurston Education Foundation offers competitive compensation for this role.

To apply for this position, please send your application to Blake Knoblauch, Board President of the North Thurston Education Foundation, at [email protected].

We welcome individuals who are enthusiastic about supporting education and are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of students in the North Thurston Public Schools. Join our team and contribute to the growth and success of our community through education.

 

ABOUT NORTH THURSTON EDUCATION FOUNDATION: Incorporated in 1989, the North Thurston Education Foundation is an independent, tax-exempt non-profit volunteer organization that raises funds to eliminate financial barriers to student success among North Thurston students from low-income families. In addition to the scholarship program, the Foundation provides each district school with student assistance funds that can be used for student needs that can’t be met with public funds; offers financial help to the district’s more than one thousand homeless students; and makes grants to teachers for special classroom projects. More information about the Foundation is available at www.ntef.org.