The North East Educational Foundation raised a record-breaking amount at the 28th annual Starlight Gala at the Witte Museum on Friday, March 1. Business partners, elected officials, educational leaders, and community members teamed up to raise more than $220,000 throughout the evening. Proceeds raised will benefit North East ISD students.
The event kicked off with a warm welcome from Gala Committee Chair Amanda Crouch.
“Tonight is all about giving back because the children in the North East School District deserve the best,” said Crouch.
The foundation funds classroom projects that enrich the education of NEISD students. Last year alone, the foundation funded more than $300,000 for more than 60 grants across the district.
“As everyone is aware this is a critical time for the future of public education and your presence here tonight is so meaningful for the teachers and children of the North East Independent School District,” said Crouch.
Hidden Forest Elementary School students Emerson and Berkley Prater followed Crouch with the invocation. After introducing elected officials and district leaders, it was time for professional auctioneer Scotty Gibbs to take the stage. Gibbs kept guests bidding through live auctions that included a Decadent Dessert by Chef Gottardy, a Toast to Teachers and Gottardy’s Grant.
A surprise video featuring business and community leaders thanking Superintendent Dr. Brian Gottardy for his many years of service stirred emotions in guests who were happy to contribute to Gottardy’s Grant.
“Being in public education for 34 years and superintendent of the great North East Independent School District for eight years, I don’t get surprised too often anymore, but I was blown away tonight by your generosity all night long,” said Gottardy.
To close off the evening, Gottardy thanked everyone in attendance for their contributions.
“I mean that in two ways, obviously the money is nice, but I really believe a lot of what we do is about the passion that we have for education and the passion that we have for kids being successful whether that is in the classroom or outside the classroom,” said Gottardy.
The night also featured a successful silent auction that featured many exciting items, including a guitar signed by Willie Nelson and an album signed by Elton John.
Posted on 3-4-19
