What exactly is the Okemos Education Foundation (OEF)?

The Okemos Education Foundation is a non-profit volunteer organization that has partnered with the school district since 1984 to support our outstanding educational system. We are comprised of a Board of Directors that includes parents, school administrators, teachers, residents, business leaders, and retired adminstrators and teachers.  We have no paid employees.  We raise money to provide funds for programs and activities designed to promote academic excellence that are above and beyond normal school budgetary and operational functions.

We also recognize and support the excellent staff of OPS and the contributions they make to our community. Our two most important programs are:

• The Commitment to Excellence Awards - These awards, bestowed annually, honor educators who demonstrate commitment and innovation that enhance the Okemos Public Schools, and who embody the qualities of excellence.
• Educational Grants – This program awards grants to Okemos educators to encourage innovative and creative teaching, and to provide expanded educational opportunities for students.

To support OEF programs, one of the first actions undertaken by the Foundation was the establishment of the endowment fund. Ultimately, the OEF Endowment Fund will generate enough interest income to support the OEF grant and award programs.   The OEF also conducts an annual fundraising campaign called "Partners in Education" which supports our Educational grants and Commitment to Excellence awards program. 

In recent years, the OEF has also undertaken more targeted fundraising campaigns such as Okemos Cares, and now the Strategic Fund Campaign, to provide even greater financial support to Okemos schools in response to reductions in State funding.  Supporters of the Strategic Fund will also be recognized as part of our Partners in Education recognition program.