The Plano Education Foundation was incorporated in 1989 for the purpose of providing additional and enriched educational experiences for the students and faculty of the Plano School District, as well as the community in general. A Board of Directors runs the Foundation.

Recognizing that learning is a continuous lifelong process, our mission is to enhance and enrich the educational experience for the children and adult community of Plano Community Unit School District No. 88

While the Plano Education Foundation works in partnership with Plano Community Unit School District No. 88, it is an independent, non-for-profit organization. The goal of the Foundation is to provide financial support for important educational activities and services that are not currently provided through the school system.

Who Supports the Foundation?

Contributors to the Plano Education Foundation include alumni, parents, friends of the Plano schools, faculty, support staff members and local businesses. All wish to enhance educational excellence in the community of Plano.

What is Funded Through the Foundation?

The Foundation will fund enrichment programs and projects with monies received by fundraising projects and donations. The Board of Directors focuses its attention on programs and educational opportunities in the arts and sciences.

Board of Directors:

• Kathy Benoit, President

• Nancy Love, Secretary

• Ron Hill, Treasurer

How Can You Make a Difference?

Contributions may be made in the following form:

• Cash or check

• Gifts of tangible or intangible property

• A memorial to a loved one or in memory of a friend

• A bequest in your will or an estate plan

• Contributions are tax-deductible within the limits of the law.

Please click here to print out the donation form and return it to the Plano Education Foundation at PO Box 272, Plano, IL 60545. Questions may be directed to the Plano School District Administration Office at 630/552-8978, ext. 7710.

BENCH DEDICATED IN HONOR OF HELEN SMITH

The Plano School District and Plano Education Foundation dedicated a bench in honor of beloved elementary school teacher Helen Smith.  Family and friends gathered at Centennial School in Plano to see the new bench, share stories about Helen and celebrate her long career of dedication to young people in Plano.  Mrs. Smith taught at Centennial from 1965-1990 and was also very active in the Plano Education Foundation and Plano Library. 

The bench design was intentional to create an interactive nature bench that students and families can use to learn basic skills while having fun.  The bench was placed in a grassy area by the tree in front of Centennial, so teachers can bring classes outside, sit on the bench and read to students.  Kathy Benoit coordinated the bench project, with assistance from the Centennial School Principal, that features age-appropriate skills.  Amy Hamilton helped with the nature design and Artist Chris Beebe designed and created the beautiful bench in honor of Helen Smith.

The Centennial School bench is part of the Plano Bench Project, which is run by the Plano Rotary Club.  The goal of this public art initiative is to place benches around the city and highlight the talents of local artists.  Take time this summer to walk around City of Plano parks and landmarks to find and enjoy other unique benches.