Name: Bernadette Waterman

Occupation: President, Easton Learning Foundation

Family: Husband and three children

How long have you lived in Easton?

We have lived in Easton for 7 years.

How and why did you get involved with the ELF?

A neighbor of mine was asked by the ELF to have a coffee to introduce the ELF to people in the community who did not know about it. At this coffee I was introduced to the founders of the ELF. I became involved because the ELF is one of the organizations in town that directly impacts the classroom experience.

What do you enjoy most about your work with the ELF?

I enjoy the partnerships we have developed with the teachers and administrators of both SSES and HKMS. It is a pleasure helping them fulfill their dreams for the Easton students. I also enjoy the camaraderie of the ELF board it has made the experience both rewarding and fun.

What does the ELF do?

The ELF is an independent non-profit with a mission to enhance the educational excellence of Easton Public Schools. Since it’s inception in 2004, the ELF has awarded over $200,000 in grants to the district.

Who can apply for grants and how do you do it?

Teachers, administrators and any Easton resident can apply for a grant online as long as the grant aligns with the school curriculum.

What is the biggest need that you have fulfilled for Easton Board of Education?

The biggest needs we have fulfilled for the district have been the SMART boards that were put in all the schools, and the new engineering and innovation lab at HKMS. The BOE approves these projects but cannot fund them, so they come to ELF. The lab cost $115,000.

What are your goals for the ELF?

The immediate goals for the ELF are reviewing and approving the grants teachers and administrators come to us with. Currently we have the planning of an outdoor classroom that was brought to us by second grade teacher Liz Kloeblen and Principal Kim Fox-Santora. We also approved the solar grasshopper project that will teach kids how solar energy works. Our main goal is to fund-raise to have money for when the teachers come to us with grants.

How does the ELF raise funds?

The ELF raises funds via direct donations and events. We hold an annual used sports equipment sale you can usually see it as you pass the tennis courts leading to HKMS. We have the STARS program, School Teachers Are Really Special. Usually around holiday times families give a star to a teacher. The child decorates it and the teacher receives the public recognition of being special. The money for the star goes directly to the ELF. We also have a town wide trivia bee.

When is the Trivia Bee?

The third annual Trivia Bee is on May 19 from 7 to 9 p.m. at SSES. You can sign up online at eastonlearningfoundation.org.

How can others in the community get involved?

Residents can volunteer for an event, buy a STAR for your child’s teacher, sing up for the Trivia Bee or make a personal donation. You can join the board as well. We are very accessible.

What is your favorite thing about Easton?

The sense of community of Easton has in supporting our schools.

What is your favorite place in Easton?

I drive by the Maple Row Farm daily and I love looking at the pastures, it is very peaceful.