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The mission of the Decatur Education Foundation is to ensure that every child in Decatur has the opportunity to thrive. We are dedicated to removing obstacles to learning, providing opportunities for our students, supporting our educators, and strengthening our community.

Innovation In Education

DEF celebrates the creativity and ingenuity of Decatur faculty, staff, and students by awarding Teacher and Student Innovation Grants! Every CSD school benefits from these exciting projects, which are made possible by your generous donations.

Behavioral Health

One of DEF’s top priorities is to increase the sense of belonging for Decatur’s youth, which is fundamental for students of all ages and identities. We partner with the City Schools of Decatur and community members like you — Together, we can help our students thrive!

Essential Needs

Did you know that more than 50 families in the City Schools of Decatur are experiencing homelessness and financial instability? The burden of being temporarily unhoused or food insecure can be overwhelming, particularly for young people.

Equity and Inclusion

At the Decatur Education Foundation, we are dedicated to fostering an equitable, anti-racist, and inclusive environment in Decatur. Collaborating with community partners, we strive to support the transformation of our city. We recognize the challenges ahead and are committed to listening to and learning from those impacted by racism.

Providing Opportunities

The Decatur Education Foundation is dedicated to fostering a thriving educational environment for all students, regardless of their backgrounds or circumstances, through a range of innovative initiatives, scholarship programs, and memorial funds.

Arts and Creativity

The Decatur Education Foundation’s arts and music grants fuel creativity and inspire artistic expression for the next generation of artistic visionaries.

Higher Education

DEF believes in the power of higher education to transform young lives. From guiding students through the college application process to funding scholarships to make higher education possible, the Decatur Education Foundation partners with you to help our students reach their full potential.

Honoring Educators

An integral part of the DEF’s mission is to recognize and celebrate the exceptional educators who support the youth of Decatur. Through these awards, we encourage excellence in education and shine a light on our faculty and staff members who go above and beyond each day.

Community Celebrations

Experience the heart of Decatur’s vibrant community and make a lasting impact with the Decatur Education Foundation! We host dynamic events year-round with support from our donors, community partners, and local businesses. Join the celebration #ForOurKids!

Impact Stories

See how your support directly impacts Decatur students.

DHS Best Buddies Club Focuses on Fostering New Friendships

Equity, Student Innovation Grant

Last school year, Decatur High School students founded a chapter of Best Buddies International as an expansion of the existing club Fast Friends. Best Buddies International is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living for individuals with intellectual and developmental…

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Oakhurst Game Center Grows to Accommodate More Students
Classroom Support, Equity, Teacher Innovation Grant
Boy Taking Water Samples In Stream
Eighth Graders Take Science Class in the Creek
Classroom Support, Equity
Ensuring Students Have What They Need to Succeed
Equity, Student Innovation Grant
Handheld Translators Make Connections Easier for ESOL Students and Their Families
Classroom Support, Equity
DEF Community Spotlight on Jonah Goode
Equity
Learning Grows in the F.AVE Garden
Classroom Support, Teacher Innovation Grant
DHS Marching Band Playing Mellophones
Shiny New Mellophones Amplify the DHS Band’s Quality Sounds
Equity, Music Grant
Experiential Learning Helps Educate Middle Schoolers on Effects of Alcohol
Behavioral Health, Classroom Support, Teacher Innovation Grant

Help us connect the dots – donate your talent and your time, offer your expertise, and support us financially.

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