Abby Kelley Foster Charter Public School has created a Development Office, beginning with the appointment of Brandon Ferris as the School’s first Director of Development. Ferris, who brings eight years of experience in independent school marketing and development, began in November. “I’m excited to be here,” said Ferris. “AKF is a great school providing a tremendous opportunity for students, many of whom come from traditionally underserved populations. This is truly a worthy cause, and one that is deserving of support.”

AKF has established the Abby Kelley Foster Educational Foundation, which will help support the mission of the School by raising philanthropic contributions from individuals, private foundations, and corporations. Ferris will work with Dr. Cameron K. “Chip” Dewar, Head of school, and the Foundation’s Board of Directors to increase awareness, both of AKF and of the charter school concept, and to encourage support among various constituencies.

 

On December 5, 2005, a group of more than 30 community leaders from the business, nonprofit, and goverment sectors spent the morning in the AKF Elementary School for Community Reading Day. Following a group reception and introductory remarks by Dr. Dewar, each volunteer was assigned to a classroom where he or she read aloud to the students.

“The idea behind Community Reading Day was twofold,” said third grade teacher Kathleen Greenwood, who conceived and helped organize the event. “We wanted to bring influential people to campus to see the good work we’re doing here, while exposing our students to people engaged in a variety of professions.”

“Community Reading Day 2005 was a great success,” said Head of School Chip Dewar. “We are very proud of this school, and we're thrilled to welcome a group of community leaders so we could share our successes in person. We look forward to hosting similar events in the future.”