Investing in our Classrooms since 1986.
As the Oxford School District Foundation gears up for their annual Giving Day on November 17, 2026, we take a minute to flash back to where it all began.
In the spring of 1986, students across Oxford witnessed the return of Halley’s Comet orbiting the midnight sky above Barnard Observatory, the cast of Oxford High School took their final bow in The Sound of Music, and Superintendent Bob McCord spearheaded an endowment aimed at enhancing public education in the OSD, organizing 17 families in establishing what is now the Oxford School District Foundation (OSDF). A 501(c)(3) non-profit organization comprised of individuals, families, and businesses across Oxford who raise money throughout the year for the sole purpose of funding grants requested by our teachers to bring innovative programs to our classrooms.
Founding member and then OHS Librarian Jolee Hussey said, “Our goal was to make [OSD] the best school district possible . . . we wanted to step in and help provide something the district could or should have, but could not afford.” And who better to know the direct needs than our teachers—those on the front lines of this mission.”
The following fall in 1987, the OSDF funded nearly $9,000 in local grants (then the average price of a brand-new car), for enhanced reading projects and science labs at Bramlett; media equipment and math labs at the Middle School; and art history slides, theatre supplies, interactive maps, and the purchase of a $1350 Apple computer for the high school.
Over these past 40 years the OSDF has continued this mission—raising millions directly re-invested in our classrooms. We are proud to report that last year the OSDF approved all requested grants, funding nearly $25,000 for projects currently utilized across the District; including “Reading and Rhythm” at Della, virtual reality equipment and projects benefitting Central Elementary’s Science and Art Labs, expanding the piano lab and 3D printing at OIS, and a program aimed at making music theory visible at OHS.
As Superintendent McCord’s dream became a reality 40 years ago, he looked to the future with pride and optimism, and the hope that “may all who come behind us find us faithful.”
In 35 years Halley’s Comet will return to our inner solar system, and the OSDF will celebrate its 75th continuous year. Today we are asking you to contribute to the limitless future of our Oxford School District. To be just as bold, just as ambitious as those founding members in 1986 who reached for the stars—whose commitment to funding innovative projects continues to transform the classrooms of tomorrow.
On behalf of the OSDF Board of Directors, our students, parents, teachers, and friends, we all thank you.
Drew Stevens; Oxford School District Foundation President, 2026–2027
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