Members of our community often ask questions about the Briarcliff Manor Education Foundation (BMEF). Here are the answers to frequently asked questions about the BMEF.

• What is the BMEF

  Incorporated in 1995, the BMEF is a non-profit, charitable organization that functions independently from, but works in cooperation with, the Briarcliff Manor School District. Through donations from you, we fund cutting-edge technology, innovative programs and curriculum, as well as resources that are beyond the scope of public school funding. Collectively, these resources give our students an edge in an increasingly competitive and global world. 

• Would it make a difference if the BMEF didn’t exist?

  Yes, a significant difference! The District’s most popular and highly regarded programs would not exist without BMEF. We expect our school district to be a leader and our children to achieve educational excellence above the average. This isn’t accomplished through public school funding alone.

• How many grants have been awarded?

  Over the past 13 years, we have awarded $1 million in grants impacting students at all grade levels.

• Who submits grant requests to the BMEF?

  Most grant proposals come from our teachers and administrators, we get requests from students and others. Any community member may submit a grant proposal as long as it is focused on resources for the Briarcliff Manor School District.

• What has the BMEF Funded?

  BMEF resources are found in almost every classroom. Talk to your children about their educational experiences and you will hear excited descriptions of innovative programs that resulted from BMEF grants. BMEF grants are integrated into every academic area, including art, music and physical education. We fund curricular programs and enrichment materials, such as the Science 21 program in the elementary and middle schools, the forensic science program at the high school, and the partnership with the Jacobs Burns Center for the middle school, to name just a few. The BMEF has provided 53 SMART Boards throughout the District, state-of-the-art computers, an elementary school computer lab, and other resources in all three schools. We also fund cutting-edge professional development opportunities that facilitate teacher innovation and participate in collaborative community projects such as the Freedom from Chemical Dependency workshops.

• How can I justify donating money to the BMEF given the taxes that we pay?

  Even our substantial school taxes cannot support ALL of the innovative programs, technology and curricular enhancements that our residents value. Most of the school budget goes toward personnel, facility and operational costs, with a small percentage left for texts and curricular materials. We fund the kind of resources/programs that our school budget cannot afford. Your donations are crucial to continue our commitment to enhance your Briarcliff student’s education and give them a competitive edge.

• Do other public schools have foundations?

  Yes! Some of the nearby districts include Bedford, Bronxville, Chappaqua, Dobbs Ferry, Harrison, Irvington, Katonah, Pelham, and Pocantico.

• What amount do most people give?

  No donation is too small. Your $50 donation would be fabulous. Any amount is appreciated. We have received individual donations of $25 to $10,000. Every donation is meaningful to the BMEF.

• Who decides how the money is spent?

  We have a 30-member board comprised of community volunteers. The Superintendent of Schools provides input to the BMEF board. As representatives of our community and our donors, the BMEF Board members take their responsibilities very seriously. Our rigorous evaluation of grant proposals requires that the entire Board votes on the proposals after thorough review. We are focused on ensuring that each grant benefits the largest number of students and are consistent with the BMEF mission and the goals of the school district.