“Supporters of Educational Enrichment Honored”
2023 Annual GMEF Recognition Plaque
Faithfully performed "“An Eagles & Journey Experience”
April 29, 2023
 
Faithfully join the GMEF Board Members
[Photo by: Martin Espinola]
 
 
The GMEF Board of Directors continues to honor its benefactors with a classic walnut-tone plaque outside the theater at Turners Falls High School.  Each of the engraved plates honors the tier-givers of the 2023 Gill-Montague Annual GALA that featured Faithfully with “An Eagles & Journey Experience”
 
The GMEF would like to recognize the generous support of those who help make our Gala possible.  Underwriters: Freedom Credit Union, Greenfield Savings Bank; The Management Solution;  Corporate Sponsors:  Construction Monitoring Services, Inc., Franklin First Credit Union, Gilmore & Farrell Insurance Agency, Inc.; Major Advertisers: Coldwell Banker/Upton Massamont Relators, Florence Bank, Greenfield/Northampton Cooperative Bank
 
Formed in Nashville, Tennessee in 2011, Faithfully quickly established themselves as one of the United States' most popular tribute acts. Faithfully created the music of The Eagles & Journey with material from all eras of the band's career, encompassing the band's biggest hits as well as fan favorites, including: Tequila Sunrise, Desperado, Open Arms, Don’t Stop Believin’ and many more.
 
 
 
“Supporters of Educational Enrichment Honored”
2019 Annual GMEF Recognition Plaque
 ““Dancing Dream – ABBA Tribute Band”
April 27, 2019
 
 
Dancing Dream join the GMEF Board Members
[Photo by: Martin Espinola]
 
The GMEF Board of Directors continues to honor its benefactors with a classic walnut-tone plaque outside the theater at Turners Falls High School.  Each of the engraved plates honors the tier-givers of the 2019 Gill-Montague Annual GALA that featured “Dancing Dream – ABBA Tribute Band”
 
The GMEF would like to recognize the generous support of those who help make our Gala possible.  Underwriters -   Freedom Credit Union, Greenfield Savings Bank;  Corporate Sponsors - Construction Monitoring Services, Inc., Franklin First Credit Union, People’s Bank, The Management Solutions, and The Montague Elks Lodge 2521

“Dancing Dream – ABBA Tribute Band” brought the brilliance of the pop sensation ABBA to the Gill-Montague Education Fund Annual Gala with a high-energy concert filled with lush harmonies, elaborate costumes and iconic choreography.     Performing the unique and timeless songs - “Dancing Queen," "Take a Chance," "Fernando," "Mamma Mia" and many more, their performance united so many different age groups - men and women, boys and girls.  The young and the 'young at heart' had a wonderful time “Thank you ABBA/Dancing Dream for the music and great memories”!
 
  
 
“Supporters of Educational Enrichment Honored”
2018 Annual GMEF Recognition Plaque
 “A Tribute to the Music of John Denver”
Jim Curry & his band
April 28, 2018

  

Board Members:  Susan Hastings, Marie Putala, Kristin Boyle, Tina Philllips, Joyce Phillips
Ellen Hastings, Carol Gloski and Jane Oakes with Jim Curry and Diane Ireland [photo by: Martin Espinola]
 
 The Gill-Montague Education Fund Board of Directors continues to honor its benefactors with a classic walnut-tone plaque outside the theater at Turners Falls High School.  Each of the engraved plates honors the tier-givers of the 2018 Gill-Montague GALA that featured tribute artist Jim Curry making a rare New England appearance at the Gill-Montague Education Fund Annual Gala performing “The Music of John Denver”.  
 
The donation levels are The Einstein Club ($1000), The Michelangelo Club ($500), The Galileo Club ($250) and The DaVinci Club ($100).  Contributions were made as "tribute gifts" in honor of educational staff members, or in memory of loved ones.  Greenfield Savings Bank, Montague Elks Lodge #2521, and Construction Monitoring Services, Inc., are recognized for their continuous support as corporate underwriters and sponsors.
 
The GMEF ultimate goal of “Supporting Excellence and Innovation in Our Schools continues to be achieved with the awarding of more than $115,850 in enrichment grants with opportunities for all students to succeed and achieve at high levels in the academics, arts and athletics.

 

 
 “Supporters of Educational Enrichment Honored”
 2017 Annual GMEF Recognition Plaque
David Lee & The American Longboards
"More Jukebox Memories"
April 29, 2017
 
 
 
Gill-Montague Education Fund Board of Directors placed its 2017 ‘classic’ annual plaque outside the Turners Falls High School Theater.  Each of the engraved plates honors the tier-givers of the 2017 Gill-Montague GALA, "More Jukebox Memories" featuring Elvis tribute artist David  Lee and The American Longboards with their high-energy tribute to music of the 50′s, 60′s, and 70′s.    The donation levels are The Einstein Club ($1000), The Michelangelo Club ($500), The Galileo Club ($250) and The DaVinci Club ($100).  In addition, Freedom Credit Union, Greenfield Savings Bank, Hillside Plastics, Inc., Montague Elks Lodge #2521, and Construction Monitoring Services, Inc., are recognized for their generous support as corporate underwriters and sponsor. 
 
Special tributes were made to the late Earl S. McGraw, Jr., educator and former vice-principal of GFMS/TFHS  at the 2017 GMEF Annual Gala.  A Special Tribute to Earl was in the 2017 Gala Program; the GMEF Board of Directors, groups and individuals recognized Earl with their Tier-giving Contribution; and A Special Tribute during the concert was made when Joyce A. Phillips, executive producer of the annual gala, had these words to share with the audience"Tonight, we pay tribute to 2 extraordinary men.  One: his legacy as an educator; the other: his legacy as an entertainer.  Their lives parallel - inspiring, strong, loved, hero, genuine, humble, family, friend.  They unselfishly shared themselves with others.   They had a positive impact on countless lives.  Often described as 'larger than life'.  Both leaving us far too soon and much too young.   Their legacies live on in family, memories, dreams and in each of us...'Living Our Best Lives'.  David Lee will perform a song in tribute to  Earl McGraw &  Elvis Presley.  As you listen to the words, I believe you will feel them in your heart and know this is truly their story."  
 
After the show David Lee met Earl's wife, Roxanne McGraw. He told her that even though he never knew Earl, as he looked up at him on the screen while singing,  'My Way', he could see Earl giving him two thumbs up.
 
 
 
The GMEF ultimate goal of “Supporting Excellence and Innovation in Our Schools is being achieved with the awarding of more than $106,950 in enrichment grants with opportunities for all students to succeed and achieve at high levels in the academics, arts and athletics. 
 
 
 
“Supporters of Educational Enrichment Honored”
With 12th Annual Recognition Plaque
"Jukebox Memories"
Brian McCullough & The American Longboards
April 30, 2016
 
The Gill-Montague Education Fund Board of Directors continues to honor its benefactors with a classic walnut-tone plaque outside the theater at Turners Falls High School .  Each of the engraved plates honors the tier-givers of the 2016 Gill-Montague GALA, featuring  tribute artist, Brian McCullough performing as the legendary Roy Orbison and Conway Twitty at their Gala,Jukebox Memories.   Also, on stage, The American Longboards, one of the nations leading rock and roll bands, entertain with a high-energy tribute to American rock ‘n roll featuring music of the 50′s, 60′s, and 70′s. 
 
The donation levels are The Einstein Club ($1000), The Michelangelo Club ($500), The Galileo Club ($250) and The DaVinci Club ($100).  Contributions were made as "tribute gifts" in honor of educational staff members, in memory of loved ones, as class gifts, and to support the enrichment opportunities of the Gill-Montague students in the arts, academics and athletics. 
 
In addition, Greenfield Savings Bank, Montague Elks Lodge #2521, and Construction Monitoring Services, Inc., are recognized for their generous support as corporate underwriters and sponsors. 
 
The GMEF ultimate goal of “Supporting Excellence and Innovation in Our Schools is being achieved with the awarding of more than $100,250 in enrichment grants with opportunities for all students to succeed and achieve at high levels in the academics, arts and athletics
 
            Brian McCullough (aka Roy Orbison & Conway Twitty)  and Joyce Phillips, Ex. Producer of the Annual Gala
and member of the GMEF Board of Directors. [photo by: Martin Espinola].
 
 
“Supporters of Educational Enrichment Honored”
11th Annual GMEF Recognition Plaque
The Don Campbell Band
"An Evening of Dan Fogelberg Music"
April 26, 2015
 
 
The Gill-Montague Education Fund Board of Directors is proud to honor its many supporters of the 11th Annual Gala featuring The Don Campbell Band with "An Evening of Dan Fogelberg Music".  
 
Recognition levels are the Einstein Club ($1,000), the Michelangelo Club ($500), The Galileo Club ($250) and The DaVinci Club ($100). Contributions were made as "tribute gifts" in honor of educational staff members, in honor/memory of loved ones, as class gifts, and to support the enrichment opportunities of the Gill-Montague students.
Also recognized on the plaque are Hillside Plastics Inc., Montague Elks Lodge #2521 and The Greenfield Savings Bank in appreciation of their ongoing partnership as corporate underwriters.
 
The GMEF ultimate goal of “Supporting Excellence and Innovation in Our Schools is being achieved with the awarding of more than $94,400 in enrichment grants with opportunities for all students to succeed and achieve at high levels in the academics, arts and athletics.  
 
 
 
 “Benefactors of Educational Enrichment Honored”
10th Annual GMEF Recognition Plaque
"The Aqua String Band"
April 27, 2014

 

Dr. Michael Sullivan, Superintendent receives the annual plaque
from Carol J. Gloski, Treasurer GMEF Board of Directors. [photo by: Martin Espinola].

 

The Gill-Montague Education Fund Board of Directors is proud to honor its benefactors of the 10th Annual Gala featuring the Philadelphia Mummers, "Aqua String Band".  The classic walnut-tone plaque hung outside the Turners Falls High School theater displays not only the names of the tier-givers, but also, Hillside Plastics Inc., The Greenfield Savings Bank, and The Montague Elks Lodge #2521 in recognition of their continued support as corporate underwriters.

The GMEF ultimate goal of “Supporting Excellence and Innovation in Our Schools is being achieved with the awarding of more than $90,000 in enrichment grants withopportunities for all students to succeed and achieve at high levels in the academics, arts and athletics

 

 9th Annual Recognition Plaque
 Honors Sandra Miner, President
Supporters of Educational Enrichment
"Union Jack"
April 27. 2013

 

Patricia Gardner, former principal of TFHS  receives the plaque from
Robert Miner, (Sandra's husband ).   It will be hung outside the  Turners Falls High School theater.

  

TURNERS FALLS - This year in addition to  honoring  the many benefactors of their 9th Annual Gala;  the Gill-Montague Education Fund Board of Directors paid special tribute to Sandra L. Miner, President of the Gill-Montague Education Fund since 2006, who passed away on October 30, 2012.
 
Sandy believed in life long learning, community service  and the value of enriching students' education.  Her work focused on authoring two knitting books from which the proceeds benefited the NICU at Baystate Medical Center and Relay for Life.  Sandy was committed to 'Supporting Excellence & Innovation in Our Schools' through her service on the GMEF, as well as her volunteering efforts through the years as a parent and grandparent.
 
Also recognized on the plaque are Hillside Plastics Inc., Montague Elks Lodge #2521 and The Greenfield Savings Bank in appreciation of their ongoing partnership as corporate underwriters.
 
Recognition tier-giving levels are the Einstein Club ($1,000), the Michelangelo Club ($500), The Galileo Club ($250) and The DaVinci Club ($100).  Contributions were made as "tribute gifts" in honor of educational staff members, in honor/memory of loved ones, as class gifts, and to support the enrichment opportunities of the Gill-Montague students.  As a result of the Annual Gala, the GMEF has awarded more than $84,450 in grants to enhance learning in various fields including science, math music, art, athletics, language and reading.

 

 

 “Supporters of Educational Enrichment Honored”
8th Annual GMEF Recognition Plaque
 
"Celebrities On Stage"
The Edwards Twins
April 29, 2012
The Gill-Montague Education Fund Board of Directors placed its eighth ‘classic’ hand-rubbed walnut-tone finish plaque outside the Turners Falls High School Theater.  Each of the engraved plates honors the tier-givers of the 2012 Gill-Montague GALA, "Celebrities On Stage" featuring The Edwards Twins from Las Vegas.  The donation levels are The Einstein Club ($1000), The Michelangelo Club ($500), The Galileo Club ($250) and The DaVinci Club ($100).  In addition, Greenfield Savings Bank, Hillside Plastics, Inc., Montague Elks Lodge #2521, and Construction Monitoring Services, Inc., are recognized for their generous support as corporate underwriters. 
 
Contributions were made as a“Tribute Gift” in honor educational staff members, in memory of loved ones, as a class gift, and to support the enrichment opportunities of the Gill-Montague students in the arts, academics and athletics.
 
 
“Supporters of Educational Enrichment Honored”
GMEF Presents 7th Annual Recognition Plaque
April 30, 2011
 
Nadine & Katie
Katherine Kuklewicz, former student representative on the GMEF Board of Directors and a 2011 graduate of TFHS (right)
presents the annual plaque to Nadine Ekstrom, Interim Superintendent. [photo by: Martin Espinola].
 

TURNERS FALLS - The Gill-Montague Education Fund Board of Directors continues their tradition to honor its benefactors with a classic walnut-tone plaque outside the theater at Turners Falls High School . Each engraved plate on the plaque honors tier-givers of their 7th Annual Gala - "The Golden Era of Rock 'n' Roll" featuring The Memories on April 30, 2011.

Recognition levels are the Einstein Club ($1,000), the Michelangelo Club ($500), The Galileo Club ($250) and The DaVinci Club ($100). Contributions were made as "tribute gifts" in honor of educational staff members, in honor/memory of loved ones, as class gifts, and to support the enrichment opportunities of the Gill-Montague students.

Also recognized on the plaque are Hillside Plastics Inc., Montague Elks Lodge #2521 and The Greenfield Savings Bank in appreciation of their ongoing partnership as corporate underwriters.

 

"We sincerely thank our many contributors for the continued support and are truly humbled and grateful by the generosity of our community, said Joyce A. Phillips, Annual Gala executive producer. “The Annual Gala, while earning financial support for the enrichment of our students, has proven to be enrichment for our communities."

As a result of the Annual Gala, the GMEF has awarded more than $64,800 in grants to enhance learning in various fields including science, math music, art, athletics, language and reading.To learn more about the Gill-Montague Education Fund, the grants previously awarded, up and coming concerts go to the GMEF website at www.thegmef.org

 

   
 
Philadelphia Mummer joins GMEF in presentation of the
6th Annual GMEF Recognition Plaque
April 25, 2010
 

presentation

Board Members Jane Oakes, Susan Has
tings, Carol Gloski, Joyce Philips and Nancy Daniel-Green, 
join Paul Squeezebox Gluck to present Annual Plaque to Principal Donna Fitzpatrick

 

 

 

Press Release 08/05/10

TURNERS FALLS--The Gill-Montague Education Fund Board of Directors continues to honor its benefactors with its classic walnut-tone recognition plaque. Donna Fitzpatrick, principal of Great Falls Middle School and Turners Falls High School, received the plaque from members of the GMEF and Paul "Squeezebox" Gluck, a member of the Philadelphia Mummers’ Aqua String Band who performed in April at the 6th Annual 2010 Gill-Montague Gala.

In recognition of Hillside Plastics Inc. and Montague Elks Lodge #2521 for their continued support as corporate underwriters and the many tier-givers, the plaque with engraved plates bearing their names will be hung outside the theater at Turners Falls High School.

 

"We are humbled and gratified by the continued generosity of our community,” said Joyce A. Phillips, gala producer. “The Annual Gala, while earning financial support for the enrichment of our students, has proven to be an on-going enrichment for the community.”

As a result of the Annual Gala, the GMEF has awarded over $58,850 in grants since 2005 to enhance learning in various fields including science, music, art, athletics, language and reading.

 

  
 
5th Annual Plaque - Public Tribute to Benefactors
 “Harmony Sounds” 
The Zumbyes & Heart of the Valley Chorus  
April 25, 2009
 
Sandy Miner  & Supt. LaddSandra Miner, President, GMEF Board of Directors 
 
 presents the annual plaque to Superintendent Carl M. Ladd
 
 
 

 

Press Release 9/11/09 

TURNERS FALLS--The Gill-Montague Education Fund Board of Directors takes great pride as it honors its benefactors with a ‘public thank you”.  The annual presentation of a classic walnut-tone plaque bearing the names of the many tier-givers; who return each year with financial support of student enrichment will be placed outside the theater at Turners Falls High School.

Each of the engraved plates on the plaque honors the tier-givers of the 2009 Gill-Montague Gala, "Harmony Sounds," that featured “The Zumbyes’, Amherst College’s oldest continuous a cappella group, & ‘The Heart of the Valley Chorus’, a local chapter of Sweet Adelines International.

The donation levels are the Einstein Club ($1,000), the Michelangelo Club ($500), The Galileo Club ($250) and The DaVinci Club ($100). In addition, Hillside Plastics Inc. and Montague Elks Lodge #2521 are recognized for their continued support as corporate underwriters. 

Contributions were made as "tribute gifts" in honor of educational staff members, in memory of loved ones, as class gifts, and to support the enrichment opportunities of the Gill-Montague students in the arts, academics and athletics. 

"We are very appreciative and humbled by the continued generosity of our community, said Joyce A. Phillips, gala producer.   “The Annual Gala, while earning financial support for the enrichment of our students, has proven to be enrichment for the community.”

As a result of the Annual Gala, the GMEF has awarded more than $52,000 in grants during the last four and a half years to enhance learning in various fields including science, music, art, athletics, language and reading. 

 

 
 4th Annual GMEF Recognition Plaque Presented
“The Essence of Country”
The Don Campbell Band
April 26, 2008

 

Kevin & Donna

Kevin Collins of Bear Country 95.3 presents the annual plaque to
Donna Fitzpatrick, principal of Great Falls Middle School
 
 

 Press Release 08/08/08

The Gill-Montague Education Fund Board of Directors continues to honor its benefactors with a classic walnut-tone plaque bearing their names outside the theater at Turners Falls High School .

Each of the engraved plates on the plaque honors the tier-givers of the 2008 Gill-Montague Gala, "The Essence of Country," featuring celebrated singer, song-writer Don Campbell and his band.

The donation levels are the Einstein Club ($1,000), the Michelangelo Club ($500), The Galileo Club ($250) and The DaVinci Club ($100). In addition, Hillside Plastics Inc. and Montague Elks Lodge #2521 are recognized for their continued support as corporate underwriters.

Contributions were made as "tribute gifts" in honor of educational staff members, in memory of loved ones, as class gifts, and to support the enrichment opportunities of the Gill-Montague students in the arts, academics and athletics.

"We are humbled and grateful by the continued generosity of our community, said Joyce A. Phillips, gala producer. “The Annual Gala, while earning financial support for the enrichment of our students, has proven to be enrichment for the community. “

As a result of the Annual Gala, the GMEF has awarded more than $40,000 in grants during the last three and a half years to enhance learning in various fields including science, music, art, athletics, language and reading. To learn more about the Gill-Montague Education Fund, the grants previously awarded, up and coming concerts and how to get involved, go to the GMEF website at thegmef.org

 

 
 
Gill-Montague Education Fund Honors Benefactors
3rd Annual Gala
“Velocity”
Gregory Caputo Big Band
April 28, 2007
 

Jeff Kenny and Phil D

 Jeff Kenney, Principal at Turners Falls High School (left) 
and Phil Drumheller ("Phil D") of Radio Station WIZZAM 1520
 

Press Release 9/20/2007

The Gill-Montague Education Fund Board of Directors has honored its benefactors by placing a third classic walnut-tone plaque bearing their names outside the theater at Turners Falls High School.

Each of the engraved plates on the plaque honors the tier-givers of the 2007 Gill-Montague Gala, "Velocity," featuring Gregory Caputo and his 17-piece big band.

The donation levels are the Einstein Club ($1,000), the Michelangelo Club ($500), The Galileo Club ($250) and The DaVinci Club ($100). In addition, Construction Monitoring Services Inc., Hillside Plastics Inc. and Montague Elks Lodge #2521 are recognized for their support as corporate underwriters.

Contributions were made as "tribute gifts" in honor of educational staff members, in memory of loved ones, as class gifts, and to support the enrichment opportunities of the Gill-Montague students in the arts, academics and athletics. Contributions totaled $7,317.

"Once again I want to thank our many contributors for the generous contributions," said Joyce A. Phillips, gala producer. "As a result, the GMEF will be allocating $12,000 for enrichment grants in the 2007-2008 school year."

To learn more about the Gill-Montague Education Fund, the $32,000 in grants previously awarded and how to get involved, go to the GMEF website at www.thegmef.org

  

 "Supporters of Educational Enrichment Honored”
2nd Annual Gala
Elisabeth von Trapp"s Sounds of Music
April 29, 2006
 
EVT & Joyce
 Elisabeth von Trapp and Joyce Phillips, GMEF member and concert producer
 
 

 Press Release 08/24/2006

The Gill-Montague Education Fund Board of Directors placed the second ”classic’ plaque outside the Turners Falls High School Theater. Each engraved plate honors a tier-giver of the 2006 Gill-Montague Second Annual GALA, ”A Concert with Elisabeth von Trapp’. Performing with Elisabeth was cellist, Erich Kory. The contribution levels are The Einstein Club ($1000), The Michelangelo Club ($500), The Galileo Club ($250) and The DaVinci Club ($100). In addition, Hillside Plastics, Inc. and Construction Monitoring Services, Inc. were recognized for their generous support as corporate underwriters.

The concert raised a totaled of $17,210 in support of the enrichment opportunities for the Gill-Montague Regional students in the arts, academics and athletics.

 

 

 

"Classic Plaque Honors Tier-Givers"
 1st Annual Gala
“A Musical Variety Show”
April 30, 2005

 Annual Plaque

Connie Sicard, member of the GMEF presenting plaque to Principal Robert Morrill.
 
 
 
Press Release 11/28/2005

Sometimes, the event simply calls for ‘classic’. This was the choice of the Gill-Montague Education Fund Board of Directors in recognition of the many tier-givers for the first 2005 Gill-Montague GALA. The ‘classic’ hand-rubbed walnut-tone finish plaque with 40 polished engraving plates has been placed outside the Turners Falls High School Theater.

The levels of giving were The Einstein Club ($1000), The Michelangelo Club ($500), The Galileo Club ($250) and The DaVinci Club ($100). Donations raised totaled $5,850. Contributions were made as a “Tribute Gift” in honor educational staff members, in memory of loved ones, as a class gift, in celebration of the new theater and to support the enrichment opportunities of the Gill-Montague Regional students in the arts, academics and athletics.

 

 
 
 

 

 
 
grow up
 
IMAGINATION ~ DREAMS ~ FUTURE
There is no better way to enrich children’s lives
than to improve the quality and depth of their education.


 

Your support will help
  • bring local artists into our schools for special programs 
  • enable a class to visit a museum or science center 
  • provide needed musical instruments for students 
  • provide mini-grants to teachers for special projects

We take pride in making a commitment to you that 100% of your donation will be used to improve the educational opportunities available to our students.

Support quality education for the youth of our community.


 


GMEF is a registered 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization.
 

 

 

 

Underwriters ~ Sponsors ~ Advertisers

 

Money raised from underwriters, sponsors and major advertisers helps to defray costs associated with the Gala.
Money raised from general advertising, ticket sales and tier-giving provide enrichment grants for all our students.
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

Our History

animated star

The Gill-Montague Education Fund is a non-profit organization established in 1996 by the parents and citizens of the towns of Gill and Montague to support our schools. Its goals are to provide programs and resources for the schools that would enrich the educational opportunities available to students, and to encourage advocacy for public education. The organization went dormant for a few years, when state and federal funding was adequate. In 2004 when the impact of budget cuts meant a reduction or loss in academics, arts, and athletics, a few of the old and new members including school, community, parents, students brainstormed ideas on how to meet both of the GMEF goals.

The decision for an Annual Gala was an event with a variety of performers to span generations. It begins with a community supporting the efforts of the GMEF with advertising, tier-giving and in-kind contributions. It continues as the community is ”enriched’ with quality entertainment within our beautiful theater. Finally, it concludes with the awarding of grants for students throughout the district bringing children’s education to life.

Our Annual Gala has offered an array of performances ranging from a local talent show; the big band sounds of master drummer, Gregory Caputo with his 16 pc Big Band; classical with the legendary Elisabeth von Trapp and cellist, Erik Kory, a cappella with The Zumbyes and The Heart of the Valley; the essence of country with celebrated singer, song-writer Don Campbell and his band; the sound and ”strut’ of the Philadelphia Mummers with the "Aqua String Band"; “The Golden Era of Rock ”n’ Roll” featuring The Memories. This year our Gala will feature celebrity illusionists, "The Edwards Twins" - 2 brothers = 100 stars.

Our Enrichment Grants go beyond the ordinary field trips of skiing and hiking. All elementary schools have participated in environmental programs with the Hitchcock Center, Great Falls Discovery Center and Northfield Mtn. On field trips, students visited the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston; enjoyed a dinner in Paris, a Luau in Hawaii, felt the “Magic Wings” of butterflies, went back in time at Sturbridge Village and our sixth graders participated in a field study offered by Heifer International with a visit to a Global Village in Rutland, MA. Every aspect of their education has been broadened with hands on experience in technology, the wellness center, Nature’s Classroom, culinary arts, all-school plays, and musical instruments. 

Students have encountered a larger world attending the arts— ”The National Acrobats of China; field trips to Boston, a typical American city rich with US history; the ”Museum of Fine Arts’; ”The Sargent Center for Outdoor Education’; a performance of "Rain," by Cirque Eloize; and a ”Broadway Classroom’ — combining a workshop with Broadway musicians with a performance of Phantom of the Opera. 

Beyond their own growth, students have been able to enhance the lives of several communities traveling to Kentucky for 6 days integrating themselves into the community with ”The Appalachia Community Service Trip’; ”The Birthday Squad’ — baking birthday cakes for children living in homeless shelters (The Family Inn of Greenfield, Jesse’s House in Amherst and children of families that utilize the Survival Center); and Sheffield Elementary joined with the Montague Parks and Recreation Department to purchase ”Sheffield Gym Basketball Hoop Height Adjusters’ which not only allows for adjustability of the basketball hoops to fit the various sizes of the students in grades 1-5, but also helps the MPRD in their offerings of youth programs

 

As a member of the Gill-Montague Educational Fund Board of Directors, I have discovered an opportunity to invest in the future, make a difference on the lives of children, choose positive actions and take on a responsibility that has given me the privilege of serving our youth.   
Joyce A. Phillips, Executive Producer of The Annual Gala.

Owl

 

 

Additional information