Hawthorne Foundation Committees

Purpose:
The STEM Committee supports and advances Hawthorne Elementary School’s commitment to high-quality STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. This committee works collaboratively with school leadership, teachers, and the Foundation to strengthen and sustain STEM initiatives, assist in the school’s STEM recertification, and expand future opportunities toward STEAM certification by integrating the arts into hands-on learning.

Responsibilities:

• Support and coordinate efforts related to the school’s STEM recertification process, including planning, documentation, and partnership opportunities.

• Collaborate closely with Ms. Pope (STEM educator), the Principal, and the Foundation Board to identify needs, funding priorities, and volunteer opportunities that enhance STEM learning.

• Help plan and support Hawthorne’s annual STEM Night in partnership with Ms. Pope—coordinating volunteers, activities, and materials to showcase student learning and engage families.

• Oversee and organize animal care for the school’s chickens, ensuring they are well-maintained and meaningfully integrated into classroom and outdoor learning activities.

• Partner with the Garden Committee to align garden projects with STEM curriculum goals—such as sustainability, life sciences, and environmental education.

• Help identify and pursue STEAM opportunities that bring creativity and design-thinking into STEM learning.

• Explore grants, partnerships, and community resources that strengthen the school’s STEM and outdoor learning environments.

• Support communication and outreach around STEM initiatives, including community events, student showcases, and Foundation updates.

Purpose:
The Communications Committee manages all Foundation-related outreach, marketing, and public communications to ensure consistent, engaging messaging that connects parents, teachers, and the wider community to Hawthorne’s mission and initiatives. This committee serves as the voice of the Foundation, helping share successes, recruit volunteers, and inspire support.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement a communications plan for the Foundation’s ongoing efforts and major initiatives.

• Manage and update digital platforms, including the Foundation website, social media, and email newsletters.

• Create and maintain a Hawthorne Alumni Directory, gathering contact information for former students, families, and staff who wish to stay connected

• Coordinate with other committees to promote events, fundraisers, volunteer opportunities, and grant-supported projects.

• Create and distribute marketing materials, such as flyers, graphics, and press releases, for Foundation activities.

• Ensure consistent branding and messaging across all Foundation communications.

• Share stories of impact—including highlights from STEM, Garden, Arts, and other programs—to celebrate success and foster community pride.

• Collaborate with school administration to align Foundation communications with school-wide messaging and events.

• Maintain a communications calendar to ensure timely updates and coordinated outreach throughout the school year.

Purpose:
The Grants Committee leads the Foundation’s efforts to identify, pursue, and manage grant opportunities that support Hawthorne Elementary School’s programs and priorities. This committee ensures the Foundation maximizes external funding to enhance initiatives such as STEM/STEAM, arts, outdoor learning, technology, and other enrichment projects.

Responsibilities:

• Research and track grant opportunities from local, state, and national sources that align with Foundation goals.

• Maintain the Foundation’s grant tracking spreadsheet, including deadlines, submission status, and award results.

• Coordinate and schedule grant writing efforts, ensuring proposals are strategically timed and responsibilities are clear.

• Support other Foundation committees (e.g., STEM, Garden, etc.) by assisting with writing and reviewing grant applications.

• Prepare and submit grant proposals in collaboration with teachers, administrators, and committee leads, including required budgets and documentation.

• Monitor and report on grant awards and outcomes, ensuring compliance with reporting requirements.

• Provide regular updates to the Foundation Board on active and upcoming grant opportunities.

• Explore partnerships with local businesses, community groups, and sponsors to expand funding sources for Hawthorne programs.

Purpose:
The Care Committee supports the well-being of Hawthorne Elementary students and families by leading philanthropic and community support initiatives. This committee ensures that our school community feels cared for, connected, and supported through programs that provide essential items, emergency assistance, and meaningful ways for families to give and receive help.

Responsibilities:

• Coordinate the bi-annual Hawthorne Blood Drive, including promotion, volunteer coordination, and event logistics.

• Establish and manage a Care Closet to provide students and families with access to clothing, toiletries, school supplies, and essential everyday items.

• Organize seasonal food drives and collaborate with the school counselor and social worker to distribute items sensitively and confidentially.

• Develop and support a Backpack Buddy program, ensuring students experiencing food insecurity receive take-home food and supplies as needed.

• Work closely with school staff (counselor, social worker, administration) to identify needs and connect families with available resources.

• Coordinate with other Foundation committees and parent organizations to maximize support for our Hawthorne community.

• Lead efforts to build a network of volunteers, donors, and community partners who can assist with family support initiatives.

• Share updates and needs with the Communications Committee for promotion and awareness while respecting student privacy and dignity.

• Provide regular progress reports to the Foundation Board, including updates on outreach efforts, partnerships, and support impacts.