June 2026 Update
Looking Ahead Together
As I settle into my new role as Executive Director, I want to thank everyone who has welcomed me so warmly. Over the past several weeks I've had the opportunity to meet with principals, educators, donors, community partners, and volunteers. One thing is already abundantly clear—this community cares deeply about its students.
This summer we'll be taking a close look at our programs, listening to our partners, and planning for the future so we can continue removing barriers to learning and creating opportunities for every student to thrive. I'm excited to continue building on the strong foundation already in place.
Kelly Hart - Olympia Education Foundation, Executive Director
Board and Staff Changes
Thank You, Katy!
As we officially turn the page to a new chapter, we want to once again thank Katy Johansson for seven years of outstanding leadership. Katy strengthened the Foundation's programs, expanded support for students, and built lasting partnerships throughout our community. We are grateful for everything she accomplished and wish her all the best as she returns to working directly with students at Capital High School. (Link departure announcement for those who live under rocks!)
We'd also like to recognize Marty Brown for his leadership as Chai of the Grant Committee for a very long time! Marty helped guide the Foundation through an important period of growth and strategic planning, always keeping students at the center of every decision. Thank you for your years of service and steady leadership.
We're excited to welcome Annie Pocklington as our new Board President. We look forward to another great year serving Olympia students together.
Help Nourish Local Students
Help Nourish Local Students
We're proud to once again participate in the Nourish the American Dream campaign.
Every donation helps provide food and other essential resources for local students and families experiencing hardship. Even a small gift can make a meaningful difference.
Learn more and participate:
Registration Open
This year's scramble set for Sept. 19!
Join us Saturday, Sept. 19, at Capitol City Golf Club for a day of fun in support of the Principal's Emergency Fund -- and all of our work to cultivate student potential. This is a date change from the previous two years when the tournament was held in July.
Another new component this year: Firecreek Ale House is organizing the tournament for us. And all proceeds will still go directly to us! We are beyond grateful for their support.
Team and individual player registration is now open. And good news: We've lowered the cost to play this year: $480 for a team of 4 or $120 for an individual. To register, use the button below, then choose "View Available Tickets."
Sponsorships are also available.
Save the Date: Rise and Shine for Students
Please note a schedule change!
Our annual Rise & Shine for Students breakfast has moved to Thursday, March 5, 2027 to better align with the Olympia School District calendar.
We hope you'll save the date now—we look forward to celebrating another year of community support for Olympia students.
Summer Projects
Summer Focus: Learning, Improving & Planning
While students enjoy summer break, we're hard at work reviewing and evaluating many of our programs to help us serve students even better.
This summer we're taking a comprehensive look at:
Principal's Emergency Fund (PEF)
Opportunity Grants
Student & Community Well-Being initiatives
We're reviewing outcomes, gathering feedback, updating processes, and identifying opportunities to increase our impact during the coming school year. Please reach out if you have any input or questions about these programs.
Get Involved!
The Olympia Education Foundation continues to grow—and we'd love your help.
We're currently looking for:
New members to join our Board of Trustees
Volunteers for events and committees
Community members with professional expertise
Student interns interested in nonprofit leadership, communications, fundraising, and community engagement
If you've been looking for a meaningful way to support local students, we'd love to hear from you.
Your Voice Matters
The Olympia School District is currently gathering community feedback as part of its district assessment process.
Your input helps shape priorities that impact students, families, and educators across our district. We encourage everyone to participate.
Thank you for supporting Olympia students. We look forward to sharing more updates throughout the year! Have a wonderful Summer!
Sponsor Spotlight
Thank You, Browsers Bookshop!
A huge thank you to everyone at Browsers Bookshop and all of the volunteers, educators, families, and students who helped make this year's Battle of the Books another wonderful success.
Events like these celebrate reading while building community, and we're grateful for everyone who made it possible. A Roosevelt Elementary Librarian said “It was a terrific year and perfect timing. Students read books they probably never would have selected on their own. We are also a thrilled to have received 10 copies of 11 different new books!”
