(REXBURG) The Madison Education Foundation (MEF), an organization that benefits students in Madison School District #321, began a slate of fund-raising events earlier in February that will hopefully end with $70,000 raised by September. This money will be used to purchase a marquee and grand piano for the new Madison High School.

“We want to help with the marquee because it is such a public part of what goes on at the high school,” said Jill Anderson, MEF president. “Its proposed location will even allow people driving by on U.S. Highway 20 to see the electronic billboard.”

A new grand piano also has a broad appeal. Approximately half of the students at the high school will use it in classes or performances. The new piano will replace the oldest one the high school currently owns, which is in poor condition.

“Unfortunately, a piano is not like some instruments that improve with age,” said David Hinck, director of Madison High School’s choirs.“The addition of a new Yamaha C7 concert grand piano will enable us to have aquality instrument in the classroom. The size of the piano we are looking at will be better able to project its sound in the new, larger auditorium.”

Several MEF-sponsored fund-raising events during February, as well as cash donations received by the organization, raised over $5,000. The MEF board sold concessions at the Madison vs. Rigby basketball game, held a special MEF Night at Gringo’s Mexican Restaurant, and bagged groceries at Broulim’s. There were also collection canisters available at orchestra and band concerts and at the play “Noises Off”.

Approximately $28,000 has been raised so far. Additional fund-raising events sponsored by MEF will take place between now and the end of the summer. Later in March, people can get their family portrait taken by Madison High School Photography instructor Larry Prescott. A Kurt Bestor benefit concert and gala in April is being planned as well as the annual golf tournament in August.

But no one need wait for these events to help. Those wishing to assist with the purchase of the marquee and grand piano, or to help the students of Madison School District #321 through teacher-initiated projects have three additional options.

First, look for MEF representatives at Madison High School sporting and cultural events between now and the end of the school year and drop money into their collection canisters. Second, contact Jill Anderson, President, at 656-0139 or Kathie McGarry, Secretary, via e-mail at mcgarryk@mail.d321.k12.id.us and ask how to make a donation. Third, go to www.mef.org and download a donation slip.

The Madison Education Foundation was established in 1993 to promote enhanced funding of educational programs and opportunities for students. Recognized by the IRS as a charitable organization, the Madison Education Foundation legitimizes educational donations from individuals and organizations as tax deductible.

The Foundation is governed by a volunteer board of directors comprised of business leaders, patrons, and Madison School District # 321 employees. There are no administrative costs associated with the Foundation. Consequently, 100 percent of every donation helps students.