Who is the Beaverton Education Foundation (BEF)?

Founded in 1988, the Beaverton Education Foundation raises money to provide hands-on innovative academic enrichment and advancement programs & projects that go beyond normal school funding at all 54 Beaverton public schools and is a 501(c)(3) community-based nonprofit organization. BEF mobilizes community resources to fund innovative classroom, summer, and after-school programs. Our mission is to directly connect our community and classrooms to provide all Beaverton students access to the people, tools and experiences that expand the depth, breadth and relevance of their academic journey.  We  mobilize community resources to fund innovative classroom, summer, and after-school programs. 

How does the BEF raise money?

BEF receives no public funds but relies on more than 2,500 tax-deductible contributions annually from school families, community members, alumni, district staff, and local businesses. Contributions come from business promotions, phone-a-thons, mailings, and via the BEF website. Beaverton’s Choice crowdfunding projects on FundRazr,   and via the BEF website.

Where does the money go?

Funds donated to BEF pay for programs not mandated or funded by the state, but ones our parents and dedicated educators consider necessary for a quality education. State funding for education in Oregon is inadequate for many basic programs, insufficient to fund enrichment programs, and unavailable to underwrite innovative programs. The Foundation directly supports hands-on student programs; purchasing equipment and materials, funding visiting artists and scientists, and helping offset transportation and facility fees.

How is the BEF different than my child’s school PTO?

BEF funds only hands-on academic programs and projects. Funding requests are received from all 53 schools as well as from District-wide and multi-school programs. BEF grants often fund pilot programs that are tested, proven and refined before being rolled out to a group of schools. Think of BEF as the start-up funding for innovative ideas.  Through BEF’s  Beaverton’s Choice,  an online crowdfunding resource, we can help Staff in Beaverton’s public schools fund their school or classroom projects. Beaverton’s Choice is…

• Fast – projects usually fund in hours or days and typically receive matched funds, increasing impact.
• Collaborative – BEF, teachers and PTOs work together to leverage resources and FUND more while teachers are in control selecting the project and materials.
• Free and sharable – No fees, no extra $ to raise – all money raised goes directly to the project. And, projects can be shared across your favorite social media platforms to fund faster!

How can I give?

Make a tax-deductible donation – our schools rely on every member of our community to educate the next generation of leaders and concerned citizens. Your support makes that possible. Contributions can be made by check or credit card or by monthly or quarterly installments. Contributions to the Foundation are exempt from federal income tax under section 501(c)(3) as allowed by law and our Tax ID number is 94-3076723. You can use our secure website to make a donation now by clicking here.

Community Partnerships

The Beaverton Education Foundation’s Community Partner Program invites you to join our growing network of local leaders to support quality public education – while encouraging thousands of parents, educators and other potential customers to support our local businesses. Learn more

How can I get more information?

Please contact us using the information below or connect with us on Facebook to keep up-to-date on events, announcements and the latest happenings.