.jpg)
In about three weeks, another graduating class from Ely Memorial High School will cross the stage at Washington Auditorium.
And thanks to the generosity of individuals, families and groups, many of the students will get a sizable helping hand as they take the next steps in their educational journey.
In all, about 100 scholarships totaling roughly $140,000 were awarded earlier this week during the school’s annual awards day.
For a small community such as Ely, this is remarkable, and there’s no doubt that each year graduating seniors benefit from the generosity of those devoted to education and with a fondness for Ely.
Yet we can’t help but think that there are even more ways to benefit Ely’s students - beyond college scholarships and helping more than a select few.
Like many school districts across the state, the Ely School District is encountering difficult financial times.
Rising costs, more state mandates and fewer kids in the classrooms put together a math equation that school officials haven’t been able to solve. For a second straight year, the district has made budget reductions that not only have an impact on staff, but on the offerings the district provides.
The Ely Educational Foundation has been called on more and more to help out, and in addition to funding some “extras” the group has come to the aid of the district with contributions that have directly funded school operations.
Already in place to oversee a slew of scholarship programs, EEF is a fitting arm to help the district continue its course and remain afloat.
As graduating classes continue to shrink and are a fraction of what they once were, there’s an argument to be made that Ely is already well-stocked when it comes to scholarships.
The existence of the EEF makes it easier to contribute funds, whether one-time or annual donations, or a gift upon one’s passing that can truly last a lifetime.
That’s something to consider moving forward, and a robust EEF aided by Ely graduates, their families, or those who simply love Ely and its schools, can be a significant player in making sure quality education and programming continues well into the future.
