The Latest

A Season of Gratitude & Giving
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A Season of Gratitude & Giving

As we head into Thanksgiving week, we find ourselves reflecting on the many reasons we’re grateful for this community. Every day we see neighbors looking out for one another, educators going the extra mile for their students, and families who show up again and again to support the work of the Decatur Education Foundation.

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Announcing the Stephanie Trauner Memorial Fund
current Erin Hinek current Erin Hinek

Announcing the Stephanie Trauner Memorial Fund

This week, our community experienced a profound loss with the passing of Stephanie Trauner, a beloved CSD teacher whose bright spirit and deep care shaped the lives of countless students and families…Together with her family and friends, Decatur Education Foundation has created the Stephanie Trauner Memorial Fund.

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Own a piece of CSD Art
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Own a piece of CSD Art

Celebrate Decatur and its schools with a one-of-a-kind collectible from beloved local artist and City Schools of Decatur art teacher Colleen Dunbar. Each hand-built, glazed ceramic sculpture captures the architectural charm of a neighborhood school facade…

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DEF is Hiring!
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DEF is Hiring!

Decatur Education Foundation (DEF) is looking for a creative, relationship-oriented professional to join our small but mighty team as Community Engagement Manager. If you love connecting people, planning meaningful events, and telling stories that move others to action, this might be the perfect role for you.

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Supper & Sips 2025 Tickets are now available
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Supper & Sips 2025 Tickets are now available

Join us for Decatur Education Foundation’s annual evening of great food, drinks, and community—Supper & Sips—on Thursday, November 6, 6–10 PM at The Chapel on Sycamore. Your night out fuels DEF’s work to empower students, remove learning barriers, create opportunities, and strengthen our community.

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Innovation Grant Cycle is Open for Applications
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Innovation Grant Cycle is Open for Applications

Decatur Education Foundation launched Teacher Innovation Grants (TIGs) 25 years ago - one of the very first programs of the organization - to help educators bring bold, student-centered ideas to life. We’re excited to announce that the 2025 grant cycle is now open and accepting applications.

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DEF is hiring!
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DEF is hiring!

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT — Community Engagement Manager Job Title: Community Engagement Manager Job Description: The Decatur Education Foundation seeks a dynamic and experienced professional to join our team as the Community Engagement Manager. This position is responsible for the Foundation’s…

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DEF Scholarship Applications are now open!
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DEF Scholarship Applications are now open!

ATTENTION: graduating DHS Seniors and parents/guardians of graduating DHS Seniors: Applications for DEF's 4-year renewable scholarships are now open. All application materials are due by April 15th. Available Scholarships Patrick Family Scholarship This scholarship, established in 2002 by members of…

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