September 20, 2021 by Ally Donnelly
Andy Hoey wanted to help Hingham students get more engaged in the world around them. He is the Social Studies director at Hingham Middle School and found a terrific program called Generation Citizen to help 8th graders develop their own civic identities. The program provides a safe space to explore politics and the workings of our government.
“Students collaborate with peers to take informed, authentic action toward a sustained change they hope to affect in their community.” Hoey said. “In a time when positive, constructive discourse is sorely needed, we wanted to see students realize their potential as active citizens.” The challenge was, he didn’t have the funding to pay for it. So last year, Hoey turned to the Hingham Education Foundation for help.
HEF is a parent-run non-proft that’s been around for 30 years, focused on enriching the quality of public education in Hingham at all levels. HEF’s mission is to support Hingham teachers in ways large and small so they can help inspire student excellence. HEF president Eryn Kelley says, “HEF allows educators to act quickly when they see an opportunity to promote innovation in their classroom, or redefine excellence in their students. The past two years have been challenging for educators and parents alike and we want to help in any way we can.”
HEF has given over $2 million to Hingham Public Schools, funding projects like Generation Citizen and so many others. HEF grants have funded significant technology efforts in our schools, STEAM projects, an award-winning robotics team, a curriculum centered around social and emotional health as well as time-sensitive COVID related needs.
Funding these projects is expensive and HEF needs help to do it. This Friday HEF hosts its annual fall fundraiser. The Covid-aware event is fully outdoors at the Range Bar & Grill from 7-10pm. There will be light fare, cocktails, live music and fun games.
“We are excited to kick off the school year to help our kids learn and grow and be the best they can be,” says Kelley.
Tickets are $100 per person and can be purchased using the link below. If you cannot attend, you may also make a tax-deductible donation of any amount. Tickets are selling quickly, so get yours now. See you at the Range!
https://www.tickettailor.com/events/hinghameducationfoundation/577277
I am the Graphic Design & Photography teacher at Hingham High. The HEF has made a dramatic difference to the content of my classes. Without them, my curriculum would certainly be very different. Thank you, HEF!