The Gloucester Education Foundation, a nonprofit organization that has been sparking the creativity and innovation of students in Gloucester Public Schools, is celebrating its 20th anniversary this Thursday, Nov. 6.
As it does so, it is launching a campaign to reimagine the drab concrete courtyard at O’Maley Innovation Middle School to transform it into an outdoor learning hub.
In early October, students became part of the process to spruce up the courtyard by taking part in a workshop to review draft concepts with landscape architects.
The sold-out “Let Sparks Fly” gala is scheduled to take place at Cruiseport Gloucester.
The event will bring together educators, students, families, donors and community partners to reflect on 20 years of innovation, and rally support for its next chapter to transform the O’Maley’s courtyard into a vibrant outdoor learning and community space.
“For 20 years GEF has invested in programs that make learning come alive, from robotics and music to theater and hands-on science,” said Maggie Rosa, the Gloucester Education Foundation board president. “This next project transforms not just minds, but physical spaces — creating a place where every O’Maley student can learn, play, and connect outdoors.”
At Thursday’s gala, the foundation plans to unveil a courtyard concept that was developed with input from students, staff and families by Agency Landscape + Planning of Cambridge which is leading the feasibility study for the initiative.
The gala’s keynote speech will be delivered by Gloucester High School senior Jeferson Do Carmo and live music will be performed by Carlos Menezes Jr. and an ensemble of alumni and advanced student musicians from Gloucester Education Foundation-supported band programs.
“Shining a light on students’ experiences and talents is at the heart of every GEF event, including our gala,” said Gala Event Chair Val Gilman, an at-large city councilor.
A mobile silent auction opened to the public Oct. 27.
“We wanted to make the celebration accessible to everyone, even those who can’t attend in person,” Gala Committee member Rachel Refalo said.
The foundation says state Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr will lead the live auction at the gala, which will feature packages including a private dinner party at Hammond Castle and a spring break getaway to Aruba.
Gala proceeds will support the courtyard projects and GEF’s ongoing investments in arts, STEM, vocational education and more.
Since 2005, GEF has raised more than $11 million, investing in dozens of Gloucester Public Schools’ programs each year.
“GEF’s impact reaches every student in our district,” Superintendent Ben Lummis said. “Our schools are stronger, more joyful, and more innovative because of their partnership.”
The gala is being sponsored by lead sponsor W.T. Rich Company, platinum sponsor Applied Materials, and gold sponsors Cape Ann Savings Bank, Beauport Financial Services and Seaside Legal Solutions, P.C., among others.
Donations to GEF can be made to https://thinkthebest.org/donate. You can also support GEF through the 20th Anniversary Silent Auction at thinkthebest.org/auction. Bidding closes Thursday, Nov. 6, at 7:30 p.m.
Ethan Forman may be contacted at 978-675-2714, or at eforman@northofboston.com.