Innovation surrounds us, it’s the world we live in. From talking watches to privately funded space flight, video cameras that go wherever you go — innovation abounds. Closer to home, we are fortunate to live in a community that encourages and fosters creativity. From a robust focus on the arts to dynamic local businesses that are leading their fields with creative, technology-based solutions.

The Bristol Warren Education Foundation (BWEF) is dedicating itself to a celebration of this creativity and innovation. Many of the programs BWEF is currently funding reflect this dedication. A robotics program for elementary-school students, a storm-water restoration plan for the Mt. Hope H.S. campus designed collaboratively by students, Save the Bay and Save Bristol Harbor, professional musicians serving as mentors for music students at the middle and high schools, iPads to support a mathematics learning strategy for special education students at Kickemuit Middle School to name a few.

All of these innovative programs, and so much more, have become reality in the classrooms of Bristol and Warren thanks to the support of our generous donors.

Fulfilling BWEF’s mission is possible only through the generous support of our community and we’d like you to consider joining in our pursuit of excellence. We have a number of ways to give: our ‘Thank a Teacher’ initiative is ongoing and takes on a special feel during the holiday season and again at the end of the school year. Our signature event, the Bodacious Bee, is a lively adult spelling bee and then some. This year’s event will once again be held on the campus of Roger Williams University in March. The theme is ‘Bee Inspired!: An evening of Arts and Innovation'. And in May 2015 the ‘Food Truck 5k’ will return for its second run. There is something for everyone at this event —whether you are a running enthusiast, a food aficionado, or simply out for a fun day with friends.

We urge you to join us during any one of these opportunities — or — consider giving this fall during BWEF’s 5th Annual Drive for Educational Excellence. Please consider a tax-deductible donation that will continue to bring innovative, world-expanding opportunities, like those I have mentioned and more, to all Bristol Warren public school students.

The BWEF board believes excellence in public education is essential to the economic and social health of any community. With the help of our many generous donors we believe we can achieve a high-caliber education for all students of Bristol and Warren.

BWEF is an independent, non-profit, community organization that promotes educational excellence in the Bristol Warren public schools. Since 2007, as a direct result of our donor’s generosity, BWEF has awarded over $230,000 in enrichment grants to teachers and staff in every district school.

All the best,

Jock Hayes

BWEF Board Chair

How to give: Help BWEF promote educational excellence in the Bristol Warren public schools by making a tax-deductible donation. You can give securely online:

Or mail your tax-deductible donation to:

Bristol Warren Education Foundation

P.O Box 543

Bristol, RI 02809