Welcome to the latest edition of Back 2 School America’s Monthly Newsletter! Each month, we’re thrilled to bring you a collection of stories, updates, and resources designed to inspire, inform, and involve our community of supporters, educators, and families.
Volunteer Opportunities • Sponsorship Opportunities
Build-A-Kit Social Fundraiser
Our Build-A-Kit Social Fundraiser was a fantastic success!
On May 1, Back 2 School America held its annual Build-A-Kit Social Fundraiser at the iconic Artifact Events in Ravenswood. Guests were treated to a fabulous buffet and drinks, tons of raffle prizes, and opportunities for lots of networking. The high-energy evening featured an array of activities including the introduction of our new Executive Director Bernadette Shanahan-Haas and an inspiring speech on the impact of our work by our founder, Matthew Kurtzman.
Guests truly came to have fun and work as they packed 200 essential Back 2 School Kits earmarked for donation to the United African Organization. Many guests took the time to write encouraging “Notes of Inspiration,” which go into all kits to remind students that there is someone out there rooting for them.
The excitement and passion for the cause was palpable. With so many teachers in the room, those in attendance got to hear firsthand about the challenges and rewards of being an educator. All of the funds raised at the event will help us continue our important mission of empowering students and teachers across the country.
As we reflect on this wonderful night, we want to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who made this event possible. Without our Board of Directors, volunteers, staff, and our guests, this fundraising night would not have been possible.
Thank you to all of our amazing sponsors including Jewel-Osco, Associated Bank, CFSC, CIBC, Xfinity, Republic Bank, Sidley, Winston & Strawn, and Wintrust Bank.
Your support truly makes a difference!
We Appreciate Teachers Contest & Reception
WOW – What an incredible night! Teachers play a crucial role in shaping the future of our communities, and Back 2 School America is proud to recognize them for their hard work and dedication. The “We Appreciate Teachers” contest is our annual initiative to shine a spotlight on the incredible efforts of teachers in Illinois, highlighting their creativity and impact on their students.
The winning teachers were celebrated at a champagne reception at the DANK Haus German Cultural Center on the north side of Chicago. Each received 30 Back 2 School kits for their classroom as well as a gift basket for them personally, filled with an array of items including wine, gourmet chocolates, coffee, gift cards, and much more. As a special part of the evening’s festivities, each teacher was introduced and we learned why they were selected as a standout educator.
The event was a true testament to the value teachers represent in our society. We also announced that Back 2 School America was launching yet another program to benefit teachers: the Teacher Classroom Kit. Each kit contains 500+ supplies. This is all part of our goal to help recognize that hiring and retaining good teachers is vital to the academic success of our future generations, particularly those who grow up under more challenging circumstances.
We all enjoyed an unexpected highlight at the event: a teacher brought a dozen newborn chicks with her since they had just hatched in her classroom and she couldn’t leave them in school over the weekend. Guests fawned over the cute newborn baby chickens and added yet another happy element to the very special evening.
Let’s congratulate these 25 deserving teachers: They go above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of their students, and we are thrilled to show our appreciation for all that they do. Thank you to all the teachers who inspire, motivate, and empower our future leaders!
A special thank you to Xfinity for sponsoring the reception!
New Program Launch: Teacher Classroom Kit
Empower Your Classroom with Back 2 School America’s Teacher Classroom Kits; Equip,
Inspire, and Educate with 500 Curated Supplies
At Back 2 School America, we understand the vital role teachers play in shaping the future of our communities. That’s why we’re excited to introduce our new Teacher Classroom Kits, designed specifically to support educators with the essential supplies they need to create a productive and engaging learning environment.
What’s Inside the Teacher Classroom Kit?
Each Teacher Classroom Kit is packed with 500 carefully curated supplies, tailored to meet the diverse needs of any classroom. From essentials like notebooks, pencils, markers, and much more. See the full supply listing on our website.
Benefits of the Teacher Classroom Kit
- Comprehensive Coverage: With 500 items, our kits ensure teachers have all the necessary supplies at their fingertips.
- Cost Savings: By providing these kits, we aim to significantly reduce the out-of-pocket expenses teachers personally often incur.
- Enhanced Learning Environment: Equipped with the right tools, teachers can create more dynamic and engaging lessons, helping students stay motivated and involved.
- Support for Educators: Recognizing the dedication and hard work of teachers, these kits serve as a token of appreciation and support for their invaluable contributions.
- Enhanced Learning Environment: Equipped with the right tools, teachers can create more dynamic and engaging lessons, helping students stay motivated and involved.
- Support for Educators: Recognizing the dedication and hard work of teachers, these kits serve as a token of appreciation and support for their invaluable contributions.
Why Choose Back 2 School America’s Teacher Classroom Kits?
- Quality and Variety: Our kits include high-quality supplies, carefully selected to cater to various classroom activities and teaching methods.
- Ease of Use: Everything a teacher needs is included in one comprehensive kit, saving time and effort in sourcing supplies.
- Community Impact: By supporting teachers, we directly contribute to the betterment of our education system and community growth.
Join Us in Supporting Teachers
Please help us in our mission to make a difference in the lives of teachers and students across the country—sponsor a kit for a teacher and classroom in need!
Golden Girls Trivia & Beach Party (May 25)
Back 2 School America is hosting a Golden Girls Trivia & Beach Party in sunny Phoenix. Come test your knowledge of the beloved TV show, enjoy beach games, and soak up the sun. This event promises fun for everyone and is a great way to support Back 2 School America. Register now to secure your spot!
Pictures from last year’s event 🥳 ⬇️
