In every classroom, there are stories happening that often go unseen.
A student who finally gets the supplies they need. A teacher who brings a new idea to life because funding makes it possible. A school community that feels more connected because someone chose to invest in it.
At the center of those moments is the Snohomish Education Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting students, teachers, and learning opportunities across the district. This year marks 40 years of that work in Snohomish.
The Snohomish Education Foundation focuses on creating opportunities that might not otherwise exist. Across the district, teachers apply for classroom grants that bring new ideas to life. These grants support hands on learning, classroom projects, guest speakers, field trips, and tools that expand what is possible during the school day.
Over the years, those grants have supported experiences students remember long after the lesson ends. From science projects to creative work, the goal is simple, give teachers more ways to support students.
“There is not one student in our district who has not been impacted by the grants program in some way,” said Erica Cenci, executive director.
For Erica, the work is personal. A Snohomish High School alum, she returned to serve the district that helped shape her. Earlier this year, she was also inducted into the Snohomish High School Sports Hall of Fame, reflecting her long connection to the community.
“I care deeply about this district because I lived it,” she shared. “To now be in a position where I can support the next generation is incredibly meaningful.”
The foundation’s impact reaches across several programs, including classroom grants, scholarships, essential needs support, trades initiatives, and InnovateED grants. Together, these efforts support students from early learning through graduation.
This year alone, classroom grants provided over one hundred thousand dollars in funding for hands on learning and classroom innovation across the district.
SEF also manages a local scholarship program for graduating seniors from all three district high schools. These scholarships are made possible through community donors, families, and local organizations who support students pursuing college, technical training, or trade programs.
Beyond academics, SEF helps meet basic student needs through its Essential Needs program. In partnership with local organizations and businesses, the foundation provides clothing, shoes, backpacks, and school supplies for students facing hardship.
“That is our opportunity to help a student show up and do their best at school,” Erica said.
Another growing area of support is the Trades Initiative. This program helps students pursuing apprenticeships, certifications, and hands on careers after graduation. Many students need tools or safety equipment, and SEF helps remove those financial barriers so they can move forward with confidence.
“It does not matter what path a student chooses,” Erica explained. “We just want to help them continue learning and take that next step.”
Across all of these programs, one theme is clear: community support makes it possible.
“This work only happens because people care,” Erica said. “Every donation and every partnership helps create something bigger than any one of us could do alone.”
That support shows up in many ways. Families, businesses, and volunteers help fund scholarships, serve on committees, review applications, and participate in fundraising events throughout the year.
One of the biggest opportunities to get involved is the annual auction at the Tulalip Resort Casino on November 7th. The event brings together hundreds of community members for an evening of dinner, auction items, and fundraising that directly supports students and teachers across the district.
After 40 years, the Snohomish Education Foundation continues to prove that education is built together, through support, opportunity, and a community that believes every student deserves a chance to succeed. To learn more about Snohomish Education Foundation programs, apply for scholarships, explore ways to get involved, or purchase tickets to the Annual Auction, visit snoed.org.
"There is not one student in our district who has not been impacted by the grants program in some way."