ROCKPORT — The Educational Foundation for Rockport is gearing up for its annual fund-raising event next Thursday, March 13 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Shalin Liu Performance Center, 37 Main St.
Open to all, the ticketed event features live music from the band, Headlands, a silent auction and bountiful hors d’oeuvres in the third-floor reception hall.
There will be an online silent auction prior and during the event. Prizes include art, event tickets, even a plane tour of Cape Ann. The auction is now open to the public for bidding and will close March 13 at 8:30 p.m. The auction link is https://app.galabid.com/efr2025.
The Educational Foundation for Rockport was established more than 30 years ago with a mission to support innovative programs that enrich the learning experience throughout the Rockport Public Schools. The areas of learning it supports are broad including the arts, science, technology history and math.
Programs supported by the foundation include annual salt marsh research, an outdoor classroom for the Integrated Preschool, field trips to many of Boston’s historic sites, the eighth-grade trip to Washington D.C., the Music Department’s 2023 trip to Italy, and drama and DECA competitions.
The foundation also sponsored several visiting educators to the school across many grades and disciplines, as well as other unique programming opportunities.
The foundation awards more than $20,000 annually in scholarships to graduating seniors, both college and career bound.
Molly Whelsky, an event subcommittee member, is eager for the community to experience the event.
“I think we have figured out the perfect formula for a fun night out — which hits perfectly as we are on the cusp of spring,” she said. “Last year’s event proved to be a smashing success and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive, and many said that they already look forward to this year’s event.”
Gillian Bouchie, also an event subcommittee member, said the evening is a great opportunity for the Educational Foundation members to spend time with others involved in the schools or those who support the schools.
“It is so heartwarming to see the community come together in such a beautiful space. Seeing the support for our school system, teachers and students makes this event, and Rockport as a whole, special,” Bouchie said. “The Educational Foundation for Rockport loves hosting this event every year. Most of the year we are behind doors distributing money raised for the educational enrichment of Rockport students. At this event, we get to talk to students, teachers, administration, town officials and many caring local people. We get to catch up, and see what their needs are for the next year.”
For tickets, $75 each, to attend the event, visit rockportedfoundation.org.
Gail McCarthy may be contacted at 978-675-2706, or gmccarthy@northofboston.com.