Bells and Books and Crystal Apples

By Teresa Rochester

Some may use thank you notes, but the school district's Education Foundation uses engraved plaques on small bronze bells and book statues dotting the Third Street Promenade as a way to thank significant donors.

And for its efforts the Foundation was awarded a crystal apple by the California Consortium of Education Foundations Tuesday for its innovative Bells and Books of Knowledge program.

"We're really excited about it," said the Foundation's president Linda Gross of the award, which honors foundations with programs that can serve as models for other foundations throughout the state.

Three years ago the Foundation, which raises money for programs at the district's 16 schools, wanted to publicly thank its generous donors through an art project in a public setting. With the help of the City and the Bayside District, which oversees the Promenade, Bells and Books was born.

"It came out of a brainstorming session," Foundation board member Harlan Dorin said of Bells and Books. "It's a unique project. That's a really nice recognition for our project and our foundation."

The names of significant donors -- who include individuals, family foundations, businesses and corporations -- are inscribed on plaques attached to 15 small statues along the Promenade. Currently five of the statues, created by local artist Jacqueline Dreager, are out for passersby to see.

Through the project the Foundation has raised $630,000 toward a $2 million endowment for literacy. During the last two years the Foundation gave $100,000 to district school libraries.

The Foundation also gives mini-grants for programs at various schools. Dorin said that down the line the Foundation would also like to use the money for sports activities and art programs.

"There's a lot more to do and we're starting to do it," he said.

The Education Foundation's Bells and Books of Knowledge program was one of four foundation projects recognized throughout the state.

"We just think it's a great project," Gross said. "The really great thing about the project is that it really engages the public and it represents this community's commitment to public education."

For more information about the Education Foundation call (310) 358-7506.