Founded in 1985 to fund programs that otherwise would not exist, the foundation has contributed more than $8.4 million toward enriching student learning and strengthening school communities. As EPSF begins its fifth decade, its focus remains on creating access, support, and awareness to help students lead and shape the future.

For the 2025-26 school year, EPSF has outlined more than $750,000 in program support designed to advance learning from early childhood through high school and beyond. This investment spans several key areas. In Early Learning, $54,000 will support Everett Ready, Play & Learn, literacy programs, and translation and dual language resources that help families engage more in their child’s education. Another $243,000 is dedicated to enhancing student, family, and staff outcomes through classroom, new-teacher, paraeducator, and library grants, as well as support for STEM, homework help, the arts, parent engagement, and donor-funded special projects.

EPSF is also committed to preparing students for life after high school. To strengthen college, career, and life readiness, the nonprofit will contribute $220,000 for summer school support, college-bound scholarships, and High School & Beyond activities. These efforts help open doors for students as they explore pathways and plan their futures. An additional $240,000 is dedicated to student needs and wellbeing. These resources support the Stuff the Bus backpack program, student and family grants, and a range of urgent or immediate assistance provided throughout the school year. This work is part of a broader effort to remove barriers that can interfere with learning. 

Over time, EPSF has invested more than $2 million in critical supports such as the district’s Family Resource Center, gift cards for unhoused or housing-unstable students, and unrestricted principal funds that allow schools to respond quickly when challenges arise. Often, these unrestricted funds make the most profound and immediate impact. In one recent example, staff used foundation-provided resources to purchase sleeping bags for a family living in their car until cold-weather shelters opened. The staff then collaborated with community partners to connect the family with temporary housing. Situations like this demonstrate how EPSF empowers schools to respond compassionately and swiftly when students face hardship, ensuring they have access to essentials such as clothing, hygiene supplies, transportation assistance, and emergency items that help stabilize daily life.

To ensure these resources remain available, EPSF invites the community to take part in the upcoming BIG Give Showdowns, districtwide benefit events taking place on the following three March dates and locations:

The BIG Give Showdown will bring the community together for an evening of fun, food, and philanthropy. It’s a chance to give, cheer loudly, and celebrate the great work happening in schools every day. Each donation, no matter the size, helps meet urgent needs, expand learning opportunities, and strengthen programs that benefit students across Everett Public Schools.

With four decades of service and a strong foundation of community trust, EPSF remains committed to ensuring every student has the resources they need to learn, grow, and thrive.