A Look at Our Schools Through My Mom’s Experience as the Issaquah Schools Foundation Board President
The Issaquah Schools Foundation (ISF) opens doors to opportunity for the 19,000 students across 27 schools in the Issaquah School District (ISD). ISF does this by raising money to support programs in five key areas: academic support, academic enrichment, student wellbeing, educational innovation and community outreach.
I am lucky to have the opportunity to learn about ISF and the work they do because my mom is the board president. I asked her a few questions about this role and how she juggles it with being the Pacific Cascade Middle School (PCMS) PTSA treasurer and keeping up with our busy family.
Joining the Board
My mom’s connection to ISF was sparked by another Issaquah Highlands resident, Carolyn Kennedy, who worked at the foundation. She helped connect PTSAs with the work ISF was doing, which led my mom to join ISF’s judging committee for Teacher Grants. In 2021, she joined the ISF Board of Trustees.
Challenges of the Role
One of the biggest challenges she faces is making sure students get the support they need, even with limited resources. More students need essentials like food, clothing and school supplies as well as extra help with classes and career planning. My mom says ISF is constantly working to ensure they can meet those needs.
“Raising awareness about the gaps in public education funding and increasing community support is an ongoing challenge, but that’s why we’re here!” she shares.
Issaquah Schools Foundation (ISF) awards Teacher grants to schools across Issaquah School District, including this one at Grand Ridge Elementary!
A Success Story
Music programs have a special place in my mom’s heart. She told me about one success story through the Teacher Grant program where they brought in a piano lab at one of our local high schools. The school’s music teacher recognized a need for students who didn’t feel comfortable in large ensembles like band or orchestra but still craved a creative outlet, especially after remote learning.
A year later, a senior from that school shared how much it had meant to her—learning piano at school gave her an opportunity she never could have afforded otherwise. The piano electives have continued to fill, allowing even more students to take advantage of that opportunity.
Finding a Work-Life Balance
It’s definitely a balancing act for my mom to oversee the well-being of our family and 19,000 students districtwide, but thankfully both roles offer flexibility. Working with great people at both ISF and the PTSA ensures that she doesn’t miss important family stuff.
“Plus, you kids have been really good about pitching in to help, too!” she adds.
Community Support
Mother-daughter duo Laura Gaffney (left) and Anna Gaffney (right).
The Nourish Every Mind Student Showcase, ISF’s biggest annual fundraising event, will take place at the Issaquah Community Center on Thursday, May 1, from 12–1 p.m.
It’s a great opportunity for the community to come together, learn about the impact of ISF programs and contribute to student success. Please register and join us!
Every contribution—whether donating at any level, volunteering for a committee or event, or simply learning more about the foundation’s impact—supports ISF’s mission and impacts students…like me.
Anna Gaffney is a member of the Highlands Youth (HY) Advisory Board and a Grand View Park resident.
As published in the spring issue of Community Connect magazine >>>
