Our Story
“A Vision without action is merely a dream. Action without vision just passes the time. Vision with action can change the world.” – Joel A. Barker
The above quote summarizes the beginning of the Olney Education Foundation (OEF). What began as a DREAM in 2014 soon became a VISION — a vision to help OISD students. The VISION then found the support of the Olney Independent School District, and with OISD’s endorsement, it was time for ACTION.
ACTION led to framing a Memorandum of Understanding and Operating Procedures, an eight-member governing committee, and a 501(c)3 nonprofit status. Today, the Olney Education Foundation is CHANGING THE WORLD for OISD students. How?
Unique to OEF, as compared to many other education foundations, is its scholarship/mentorship program and the desire to help students, not just through high school, but all the way through earning a college diploma, a vocational certificate, or even a master’s or doctorate degree. To be eligible for this program, a student must show financial need, exhibit the desire to further their education, maintain good grades, and be willing to work with a mentor through their high school and college/technical school years. Students in the program are held accountable to their mentor for communicating, getting things (FAFSA, college applications, etc.) done in a timely manner, maintaining their grades, actively applying for additional scholarships, and seeking part-time employment. From this partnership, many life-lessons are learned, trust is built, and friendships are formed that will last a lifetime.
The Olney Education Foundation is continually working behind the scenes to enrich the educational experience for all OISD students. New programs to benefit students are added as needs arise and the financial support materializes. The following is a list of OEF’s current/new programs:
- AP Testing Grant – to help lower the cost of all participating
- Driving permit vouchers
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) mentoring and scholarships
- Campus grants for elementary, and junior high campuses
- Summer leadership scholarships
- ACT/SAT tutoring
- Parent financial aid instruction
Board of Directors:
Kelly Mahler, Chairman
Dr. Matt Caffey, OISD Superintendent
Sherry Altmiller, Secretary
Mark McClelland, Treasurer
Summer Branum
Jennifer Lane
Kendall Montgomery
Debbie Shelley
