Hi there, I'm Stephen Skoufalos and since 2018, I've had the privilege of serving as the President of the Great Valley School District Education Foundation, pouring in my time, energy, and passion to make a tangible difference in the Great Valley education community. The Foundation exists to enrich the total student experience in the Great Valley Schools. We fund innovation in the classrooms, bridge the community and our schools, support and fund special projects and programs that make our schools better. That is a mission that I can wrap my arms around and I happily donate many hours to the Foundation to support our great cause. Now, you might wonder, why would anyone choose to invest their time, talents, and resources into a nonprofit like GVSDEF? Why do I do it?
My answer is unwavering: I do it because education is the bedrock of our future. It is the most powerful tool to shape young minds and change the world. My journey began in 2013 when I volunteered at General Wayne Elementary School. I saw children struggling with math and knew that with my engineering and math background, I could help. I vividly remember every moment when a spark of understanding ignited in the student's eyes and a simple but powerful "Thanks, Mr. Steve", became a treasured memory.
With every dedicated teacher, I've worked with and every bright young mind I've encountered, my conviction in the power of education has only grown. So, when I was invited to join the GVSDEF Board of Directors, I did so with an open heart and a burning passion for the Foundation's mission.
Great Valley schools are beacons of excellence, attracting families and potential employees. We have witnessed a surge in student enrollment and, with it, a responsibility to provide an enriched educational experience. GVSDEF is there to help, and I am part of that.
In my time with the GVSDEF, I've seen the future take shape in the eyes of 7th graders programming robots. The GVSDEF provided robots through generous donations from the Saint Gobain company funding STEM education initiatives. The sheer joy and wonderment in those students' eyes as their robots come to life are moments that will forever remain etched in my heart.
Through our Venture Grants program, I've watched as 4th and 5th graders uncover the secrets of forensics working with forensic learning kits to make the curriculum come to life. I witnessed their intelligent questions revealing minds ready to explore and learn. We support students as the embark on their higher education journey too. I look forward, every year, to the thrill of presenting GVSDEF scholarship checks to deserving students. Witnessing the gratitude and hope light up their faces, has solidified my commitment to the transformative power of education. My commitment to GVSDEF!
Amid the hard work, there are moments of pure, unadulterated joy. I've reveled in the laughter and excitement of the Harlem Wizards charitable basketball event, a reminder that while education is crucial, so is the joy of being a child.
So, why do I do this? I do it for the spark in a child's eyes, the transformative power of education, and the promise of a brighter future. My love for teaching drives me to give my all to the GVSDEF. It's not just about the hard work and the donations. It's about moments of joy, achievement, and lasting impact. It's about the difference we make in students' lives and the entire Great Valley community.
So I ask you to come join us on this incredible journey to ignite change and shape the future. We need you. We need your passion for education and our community. Let's make a difference together. Trust me; there is no greater feeling than knowing you're part of something that truly matters. Are you ready to make a difference? Let's do this!
For more information about serving on the GVSDEF Board of Directors, please visit our website here: GVSDEF Board Service Page
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