The world changed abruptly in March, upending the education system in a few short days. The Granby Education Foundation (GEF) responded with initiatives designed to bring smiles and relief during a turbulent time.
Staying Home, Staying Creative
To uplift students missing school and raise the community’s spirit, the GEF created the Staying Home, Staying Creative social media project, focusing attention on the artistic and musical talents of Granby students. Art pieces from chalk art and paper hearts to Impressionist-inspired paintings and videos of musical performances were submitted over the last 10 weeks. The artists’ submissions and the community reaction have been heartfelt. All artwork can be seen on the GEF’s Facebook and Instagram pages.
Graduation Signs
The loss of the traditional graduation ceremony and activities for the Class of 2020 was an unfortunate consequence of the coronavirus crisis experienced nationwide. To make this time more special for our seniors, the GEF printed signs for each graduate with their senior picture and name. The signs were a surprise and set up along the GMHS driveway when the seniors picked up their caps and gowns. They were also displayed for public viewing at the municipal complex and high school. Seniors took their signs home after the display. The graduates and their parents showed their appreciation in comments on social media: “My senior thought it was cool and every parent I know has cried. Thank you!” and “As a 2020 senior I’d like to thank you! I’ve been really sad about the whole graduation situation and when I pulled in yesterday to receive my cap and gown, I was shocked to see this surprise.”
The photos can be viewed and downloaded at classof2020.granbyeducationfoundation.org
Tribute Program for Educators
Teachers have risen to the challenge of distance learning, spending countless hours researching resources, talking to families, and modifying their lesson plans. To honor these heroes without capes, please consider a donation of any size to the GEF Education Tribute program, honoring a teacher, community member, administrator, coach or counselor who positively impacts Granby students. All honorees will be recognized on GEF’s social media, website and annual report as well as in The Granby Drummer. Details can be found on our website, Facebook, and Instagram pages.
The Granby Education Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that continues to thrive, thanks to generous donations from the public. Donations can be made at our website or send to Granby Education Foundation, P.O. Box 351, Granby, CT 06035. Working together, the GEF will continue to enrich our community with quality arts and education programming for Granby residents of all ages.