The Tolland Education Foundation (TEF) was founded twenty years ago on one core principle: to inspire – and fund – innovative, creative learning experiences in Tolland Public Schools (TPS). Experiences that enrich academics and build life skills from our youngest to our oldest students of all abilities.
In the past 20 years, this all-volunteer organization has supported creative learning opportunities that enhance our students’ educational experiences.
TEF is a 501c3 organization and grants are funded solely on the generous tax-deductible donations of members of the community. Through their generosity, TEF is able to be a consistent resource for our superintendent, principals, teachers, paraprofessionals and staff members. Donations enable TEF to ‘show up’ for them when their unique ideas surpass their funds.
TEF is a non-political entity, independent of both the Board of Education and the schools. TEF may supplement current school Board priorities, but it is not a substitute for them nor simply a routine alternative funding source.
The David E. Golden Discovery Center
David E. Golden, an extremely active and passionate advocate for better education in Tolland public schools, was one of the eight founding members of TEF. He served as President of TEF from 2010 until his passing in 2016.
The Golden Discovery Center at Tolland Public Library was introduced in 2018 in honor of David. The center contains cutting edge technology typically not available to the average person and is a safe space for teens to use MACs, gaming PCs, virtual reality systems, and other technology to discover new skills and knowledge, and bring ideas to life on their own terms. The midi and music resources, video editing and production, game construction, and Oculus Virtual Reality stations make this lab one of the most cutting edge in the State of Connecticut.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Tolland Education Foundation?
The Tolland Education Foundation (TEF) was established in 2004 as an independent, non-partisan, non-profit, tax-exempt organization. Comprised of a diverse board of volunteers – parents, empty-nesters, business people, and other community members-TEF is committed to enhancing the educational experience for Tolland’s children.
Where does the Foundation get its funds?
TEF seeks donations from individuals, businesses, private grant sources, and through fundraising activities.
What is the Foundation's purpose?
The purpose of the foundation is to raise funds and award grants to provide students with innovative learning opportunities that are beyond the conventional resources or our public schools.
Why does Tolland need a Foundation to support education?
As a valuable community resource, TEF:
- Engages new partners and deepens community support for schools.
- Augments traditional public funding.
- Funds programs not normally included in the school or municipal budgets.
- Provides tax-deductible opportunities to support Tolland’s children and educational programs.
- Promotes public/private partnerships and enables Tolland’s Public Schools to benefit from corporate grants gifts.
What is the Foundation's relationship with the Board of Education?
TEF is a non-political entity independent of both the Board of Education and the schools. TEF may supplement current school board priorities but it is not a substitute for them, nor is it simply a routine alternative funding source. TEF seeks to seed promising pilot projects and encourage innovation in teaching and learning.
How can someone contribute?
Individuals, businesses, community groups, and civic organizations are invited to become supporters with a tax-deductible contribution. Volunteers and pro-bono services are welcome. Visit the Donate page or contact info@tollandeducationfoundation.org for more information.
