Our Origins
The Foundation began as the Adopt-A-School Advisory Committee, a partnership of PTA representatives, educators, and local business leaders. They focused on recruiting volunteers, securing supplies and materials, and inspiring gifts of money, securities, and property. By the end of 1983, a subcommittee had drafted bylaws and articles of incorporation, and in April 1984, the Foundation held its first official meeting.
Early Priorities
From the start, the Chapel Hill-Carrboro Public School Foundation focused on investing in educators and classroom learning. The Foundation’s first teaching award was presented in 1987 and established a lasting commitment to recognizing outstanding teaching. Today, PSF stewards 15 endowed Teaching Awards and, in partnership with CHCCS, recognizes more than 75 teachers and staff members each year.
Supporting teachers through classroom grants was also an early priority. In its first years, PSF provided about $10,000 annually to classrooms. That investment has grown significantly. More than $1 million was provided in 2025 alone to support science equipment, curriculum development, tutoring, enrichment, and more.
To date, PSF has invested over $20 million to support every school, every teacher, and every student in Chapel Hill-Carrboro.
PSF volunteers at a Teachers First Breakfast many years ago.
Events and Community Impact
The Foundation has grown through signature events that engage the community and raise essential funds:
- Walk for Education (1997–2017) benefited local schools for two decades.
- Breakfast and Roses (since 2004), supported by the Chapel Hill Restaurant Group, raised over $1 million for teaching awards, conference presenter grants, National Board fee assistance, the Teacher Supply Store, Novice Tea, and more. It continues today as Love & Roses.
- Teacher Supply Store (since 2007) sponsored by the East Chapel Hill Rotary provides essential classroom supplies to teachers.
- 5K for Education, celebrating 20 years in 2026, continues to raise funds directly for schools.
A Legacy of Impact
Since 1984, the Foundation has invested over $20 million in programs and projects that might never have existed without donors. Each gift fuels innovation, empowers teachers, and supports student learning, helping every child in Chapel Hill-Carrboro reach their full potential and strengthening our community.
