CCS INTRODUCES COLUMBUS CITY EDUCATION FOUNDATION

CCS INTRODUCES COLUMBUS CITY EDUCATION FOUNDATION

Foundation Announces Opening of Executive Board Applications

COLUMBUS, OH—Columbus City Schools Superintendent and CEO Dr. Angela Chapman joined community leaders Feb. 4 to formally introduce the Columbus City Education Foundation at the Columbus Metropolitan Library Main Branch. The event marked a milestone in building long-term community investment in students across the District.

Dr. Chapman opened the program by describing the Foundation’s role in strengthening support for public education.

“This Foundation represents a powerful opportunity to deepen community investment in our students and schools,” Chapman said. “By bringing together partners who believe in public education, we are building a structure to support innovation, equity, and student success for years to come.”

The Columbus City Education Foundation was created to mobilize community, business, and philanthropic partners in support of educational opportunity and student achievement within Columbus City Schools.

Foundation Consultant Christina Vera described the Foundation as a new avenue for collective action.

“We are here to introduce a new tool for our community,” Vera said. “The Foundation is designed to expand opportunity, strengthen public education, and organize support around Columbus City Schools in a way that is sustainable, strategic, and community-driven.”

Foundation leaders also announced the opening of Executive Board applications, inviting civic, corporate, and community leaders to help guide governance and long-term direction.

Vera said the Board will play a central role in shaping the Foundation’s mission and accountability.

“This Foundation is about creating a lasting vehicle for community voice and impact,” she said. “Opening Executive Board applications invites leaders across sectors to help shape the future of education in Columbus and ensure this work reflects accountability, transparency, and long-term vision.”

The Foundation will advance initiatives aligned with District priorities, including student enrichment, educator support, alum engagement, and workforce and career pathways. It will operate as an independent nonprofit organization focused on strengthening student outcomes through partnerships and community leadership.

Student voice played a key role in the event. Columbus Downtown High School senior Makailah Richards shared her perspective on the importance of community investment in education.

“Education has always mattered deeply to me,” Richards said. “Throughout my time in Columbus City Schools, I have worked hard academically, served my community in leadership roles, and advocated for what I believe students need and deserve.”

Richards also spoke about the power of collaboration across generations and sectors.

“It means so much to see the adults in this room coming together to think creatively about how to sustain and expand opportunities for students across Columbus City Schools,” she said. “Your work supports students like me today, future students who have not yet entered our classrooms, and alumni like my mom who helped build the foundation we stand on.”

Executive Board applications are now open and will be reviewed on a rolling basis. The Foundation is seeking individuals with experience in governance, finance, education, workforce development, philanthropy, and community leadership.

For more information about the Columbus City Education Foundation or to apply for the Executive Board, visit https://www.columbuscityeducationfoundation.org or contact info@columbuscityeducationfoundation.org.

About the Columbus City Education Foundation:

The Columbus City Education Foundation is an independent nonprofit organization created to expand opportunity and strengthen public education for the 47,000 students of Columbus City Schools. Through community partnerships and philanthropic investment, the Foundation directs resources to close opportunity gaps, support classroom innovation, and connect students to career pathways. The Foundation ensures students have access to the tools and support needed to succeed in school and beyond.