Education Foundation of Indian River County
"Opening Doors to Student Success!"
Love Science!
This years 27th Annual Science Fair held on January 26th, 2019 was a HUGE scientific success! Over 550 students competed in both the Elementary & Secondary Divisions.

Over $700,000 in awards was given to winning students for this years fair!

Thank you to Gifford Middle School & Sebastian River High School for being the host venues for this years fair, and to ALL of our Judges, Volunteers, Science Coordinators, School District Staff & Board, we THANK YOU!

For a full listing of Science Fair Winners click the links below!
Love New Shoes!
Our Sneaker Exchange Program, has begun for the second half of the school year! Thanks to a partnership with Payless Shoe Store, students who are in need are eligible to receive a free pair of new shoes to help keep them on a path for learning!

We kicked off our first one in February feeling very grateful! Thank you to Senior Life Services and their "Give Back Program" for their generous donation of $2500 to this program. Jonathan Blackburn, Divisional Director was there to present the check to Education Foundation Staff & Board Members.

These take place every Tuesday & Thursday running through April 4th (excluding Spring Break from March 18th-22nd). If you are interested in volunteering or donating to this program please visit our website to sign up or make a donation to help continue this program.
Love Board Members!
Pat Blackburn is a former educator and lifelong child advocate. She acquired her degree in Early Childhood Education from Appalachian State University in North Carolina. She later attended Salem College to earn her certification in Special Education. Pat taught students in both Charter and Public Schools in North Carolina.
Pat moved to Vero Beach in 2009 with her husband, Jonathan and young son, Wil. While retired from the NC Public School System, she continued to indulge her love for children and education as a volunteer at Wil’s school, Beachland Elementary. Eventually, Pat served as PTA President and enjoyed seeing parents engaged with teachers in partnership to create a phenomenal learning community. 
Pat is also is a firm believer in civic duty and community responsibility. She is dedicated to her church. She enjoys being a Poll Worker for the Supervisor of Elections. She is member of The Tax Payer Association of Indian River as well as other local clubs. She believes that engagement in local government is vital. 
Joining the Education Foundation of IRC was a perfect fit for Pat. She is excited to be able to learn and work with other amazing child advocates to help students succeed.

Welcome to our Board of Directors, Pat, we are excited to have you!
Love Education in the News!
Want to learn more about what's going on with education in Indian River County? Stay tuned to our show called "Building Foundations for Education."

In the latest edition, Education Foundation CEO, Cynthia Falardeau, interviews
Dr. Nikki Mosblech (Indian River County Teacher of The Year), Mr. Jeramy Keen, and Mr. Patrick Hiser. Also an episode featuring Dr. Mark Rendell, Superintendent of Schools for Indian River County.
Love Kindergarten!
Do you or someone you know have a child who will be entering Kindergarten in the Summer of 2019?

If so, then make sure to attended the 4th Annual Kindergarten Round Up, being held on Saturday, February 23rd, from 10am-2pm at the
Indian River Mall.

Here you can register your child for Kindergarten, learn about the many programs and school activities for your child and also learn more about the Education Foundations 'STEP into Kindergarten' program!
Love Events!





April 17th, 2019 - Wine & Wickets & Other Lawn Games! Fundraising Event, held at Johns Island West Course.

Event to feature rounds of croquet and other fun lawn games! Wine, beer, light appetizers and fun!

Reservations are $125 per guest.

Sponsorship Opportunities Available!





April 27th, 2019 - Charity Shoot Fundraising Event, held at The Windsor Gun Club.

Registration fee is $125 per person.

Sponsorship Opportunities Available!
“A well educated mind will always have more questions than answers"
-Helen Keller

Do you want to continue to help us grow power, knowledge and skills for our local students and teachers? Without the help of donors like you, many needs in our education community will be unmet.

Please make a gift for education to help us continue to provide skills for children and their teachers ensuring they will achieve successful lives through high quality education.


Education Foundation Board of Directors 2019

President - Cathy Filusch
Vice Chair - Wanda Lincoln
Treasurer - Brian Elwell, CPA
Secretary - Margot Kornicks, RN, MBA

Members at Large:
Pat Blackburn
Bill Douglass
Cindi Dixon
Marion Manchester
Jim McGuigan, CPA

Education Foundation Staff:
Cynthia Falardeau, Chief Executive Officer
Ben Earman, Development Officer
The Education Foundation of Indian River County is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization
whose mission is to enhance our community’s investment in our schools
with the goal of achieving excellence for students and educators.

P. 772-564-0034 | F. 772-564-0761 | [email protected]