About

EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

The Educational Foundation’s mission is to support education and enrich the quality of life in our community by raising and managing funds. Through our many philanthropic partners, we provide innovative educational programs, literacy initiatives, teacher grants, and need-based financial assistance to teachers, staff and students. Our key initiatives include the Bucks for Books Grants, Michelin Golden Apple Teacher Grants, Robotics Grants, and scholarships and grants for graduating seniors. 

We support learning, empower growth, and inspire excellence.

History

The Lexington County School District One Educational Foundation was established in 1994 as a 501(c)(3) organization that serves as a source of funds to support district programs and initiatives which are outside the scope of the district’s Annual Fund budget. It is governed by a board of directors comprised of Lexington District One parents, local business leaders, district school board members, the district teacher of the year, the district superintendent, and caring community leaders.

Our Foundation Board of Directors has grown from the original five members to the present group of more than 20 community leaders. The board hired the first executive director in 2003 and this position continues to lead the Educational Foundation, along with its dedicated board members, the superintendent, district trustees and staff. The Educational Foundation Board of Directors meets quarterly throughout the school year and holds special meetings as deemed necessary.

Since its inception, the Educational Foundation has been a continuously growing and evolving support arm of the district. The alternative sources of funding generated through the Educational Foundation have focused on a variety of important initiatives, including grants for schools, teachers, and students; scholarships for graduating seniors; financial help to families in need; and innovative educational programs that enhance students’ learning experiences in Lexington County School District One.

Most recently, the Foundation has supported literacy efforts through its Bucks for Books Grants; funded creative educational programs via our Innovation Grants for K-8 Schools; supported teachers with the Michelin Golden Apple Teacher Grants; and increased students’ learning through WP School Garden Mini-Grants. Annually, the Foundation honors the top graduating seniors through its Celebration of Excellence in Education banquet. Furthermore, our high school seniors have the opportunity to apply for numerous Foundation scholarships, thanks to individuals who want to leave a legacy and assist our students in their pursuit of future dreams. We also provide numerous types of financial support to our Lexington District One families in need. Help us strengthen educational opportunities and experiences for our students by making a gift to the Lexington One Educational Foundation today!

Board of Directors

Executive Committee

Katrina D. Bryant

Board Chair

Brandi S. Keefer

Vice Chair

Melissa K. Moore

Secretary

Randall M. Cooper

Treasurer

Bridget Winston

Immediate Past Chair

Nicholas C. Pizzuti

Lexington One Board of Trustees Liaison (Ex Officio)

Libby Roof

Lexington One Chief Communications Officer (Ex Officio)

Board Members

Laura Amick

Julie Bartels

Brent Clark

Cielo Holt

2026 Lexington One Teacher of the Year

Lindsey Miles

Jacqueline Kaminer

Willard M. Salley

Chris Shealy

Dr. Scarlet R. Taylor

Jennifer White

Michelle M. White

Foundation Staff

Pam Altman

Executive Director

Heather Y. Johnson

Executive Secretary

Melissa Kneece

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