You are invited to attend the…
This year’s Gala is going full Kentucky Derby flair! Join us at the beautiful Useless Bay Golf & Country Club on May 2 at 5 p.m. for an unforgettable evening.
Kick things off during social hour with live music from a jazz combo featuring talented musicians from our award-winning high school jazz band. Sip on mint juleps and other beverages, enjoy delicious appetizers, and browse an exciting selection of silent auction packages generously donated by local businesses.
Don your finest Derby attire—especially those fabulous hats! Prizes will be awarded for the most creative Derby headwear. We can’t wait to celebrate with you in true Derby style!
Then settle in for a Southern-inspired dinner, with your choice of four delicious entrées, as emcee Seth Raabe kicks off the evening’s program. New district superintendent, Dr. Becky Clifford, will share her vision for our public schools, and South Whidbey graduate and newly appointed band teacher for grades 6–12, Catherine Ballestrassa, will speak about the impact grant funding has had on her and her students.
After dinner, the excitement continues with a lively dessert dash, followed by a live auction featuring fabulous getaways, unique items, and unforgettable experiences. The evening concludes with the ever-popular Raise the Paddle, giving you the opportunity to support the area of education you’re most passionate about.
We can’t wait to celebrate with you in true Derby style!
TICKETS ARE EXPECTED TO SELL QUICKLY, SO SIGN UP NOW USING OUR SECURE REGISTRATION FORM BELOW.
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SWSF Hosted October Teacher/Staff Luncheon
The South Whidbey Schools Foundation hosted an informal luncheon for district staff at the High School Commons on Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025.
Twice a year the SWSF hosts a teacher/staff luncheon as a way to show our appreciation as well as to remind staff we are here to support their visions for the best educational experience inside their classrooms. This year’s luncheon was held in the cafeteria at the SWHS.
Thank you to Pickles Deli for helping us cater today’s lunch! And thanks to Cindy Rupp who coordinated the luncheon and fellow Foundation Board members Gabby Guidry and Justin Silva for setting it up!
Click on the secure link above, or, write a check today
and mail it to SWSF / PO Box 24 / Freeland, WA 98249
View a few of the projects we funded last year.
5th Grade Field Trip for a live performance of The Snow Queen
On Dec. 13, 2024, 110 fifth-grade students, parents, and educators attended a performance of The Snow Queen at Seattle Children’s Theater. In preparation for the trip, students engaged in a classroom Readers Theater activity based on The Snow Queen.
This field trip provided an invaluable experience for students, many of whom had never attended a professional theater production before. It brought literature to life, inspired creativity, and fostered a deeper appreciation for the arts.
The students were thrilled by the opportunity to see a professional live performance. Many commented on the magical set design and the actors’ expressive performances. The show’s themes of friendship, bravery, and the power of love resonated deeply with them, tying seamlessly into their classroom discussions and activities.
As one parent, Kaesie LaChaussee, wrote: “The children were given a wonderful opportunity to see a professional acting company perform a beloved classic. They were very respectful in a new setting and followed directions. These opportunities do not come around often to students of Whidbey Island, and I was grateful to be a part of their experience.”
Students demonstrated a high level of interest in the story both before and during the trip. This opportunity provided a unique way for them to engage with literature and theater, enriching their education. The live performance allowed students to see the power of storytelling in a new light, encouraging creativity and teamwork. Students left the theater inspired, and many shared their favorite moments from the performance during follow-up discussions in class.
Food Forest & Garden Grants
Curriculum that students can really dig
South Whidbey schools offer hands-on lessons in picking, cooking, baking and tasting real food from its own farm.
Click this link to read more about the farm program from an article in the South Whidbey Record.
Middle School Intro To Golf Equipment
Thanks to a grant from the SW Schools Foundation, students can now practice golf swings, etiquette, and complete an 18 hole course set up throughout the athletic fields and HS/MS campus. The oversized clubs and larger balls help all students to find success in golf before advancing to more difficult equipment. This is a fun activity for all ages and abilities and will add to our “Life-Long Activities” PE Theme.
Books & Materials for the new Inclusive Transitional Kindergarten Grant
Once students read about sharing, asking someone to play and making friends, they go outside and practice. What better way than to have some toys to play in our wonderful sandbox with and bikes to ride in our undercover area when it’s raining.
Play to Learn is the concept we’ve embraced at ITK and the learning manipulatives provide a fun way for our 4 year olds to learn their numbers and letters.
“Be Your Own Hero” Talisman Writing Project
Advanced Ethnic Studies Field Trip
Teaching Life Skills Through Baking Grant
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Celebrating Milestones
Thank you to Whidbey Telecom for providing a discount for the Schools Foundation’s voicemail services. We appreciate the support!
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