A strong community lifts up its children.
At this year’s Be the Bridge Spring Benefit, guests were treated to a special 20th anniversary digital film that told the story of how the Lake Washington Schools Foundation began, how it has grown, and the lives it continues to impact. The reflections shared in the film—by founding trustees, school staff, and program leaders—are excerpted below and woven into the story of our shared legacy.
The Beginning of a Bold Idea
Twenty years ago, our community came together around a powerful idea—that the success of our schools and students depends on all of us. What started as a vision shared by a small group of founding trustees has grown into a thriving organization that supports over 30,000 students each year.
“We were founding trustees,” shared Pat Vaché. “There was a group of 12 or 15 of us brought together with the idea of creating a foundation… and that’s what happened. You see it today—it’s alive and well.”
Siri Bliesner, also a founding member, recalled the sense of purpose that guided those early days: “We thought about how to enhance opportunities for all students, enrich the quality of our schools, and engage our community in public education in a different way. I think the values are still there.”
That energy and clarity of purpose sparked what would become a vital partner in public education. “The first time I thought it was going to work,” Pat reflected, “was that very first meeting. The energy in that room made it clear—this was going to happen.”
From Vision to Action
Since its founding, LWSF has worked in close partnership with LWSD to bring programs and resources to students across the district. Whether it’s helping students feel safe and supported, expanding access to food and mental health care, or building pathways for future success, the Foundation plays a critical role in removing barriers to learning.
One such initiative is Families Helping Families, which provides grocery vouchers to families in need. “What we do is provide a grocery voucher with our partners at Kroger,” explained Catherine Cruz, LWSD’s Family Engagement and Community Outreach Coordinator. “Families have the freedom to purchase the food and hygiene products they need. It’s one less worry—and a way to restore dignity and choice.”
Na’eemah Webb, also a Family Engagement and Community Outreach Coordinator, added, “We had a family whose students weren’t showing up to school,” Na’eemah shared. “They didn’t have clothes that fit. We got them vouchers, and the joy on those students’ faces when they came in—’Got my new tennis shoes! Got my new coat!’—was incredible. This was made possible through the support of the Foundation’s donors.”
Prioritizing Mental Health
The Foundation also champions student wellness through its support of mental health literacy and suicide prevention training across the district.
Morgan Lipe, LWSD Student Services Specialist, emphasized the significance of this work: “From the 2020–21 school year to now, over 400 LWSD staff have been trained in mental health literacy and suicide prevention—thanks to funding from the Foundation.”
At Tesla STEM High School, every student is trained in Teen Mental Health First Aid before they complete their freshman year. “This is essential,” Morgan said. “Students are whole people. A huge part of their success isn’t just academics—it’s their mental wellbeing.”
A Legacy of Support—and a Future of Possibility
As we look back on 20 years, we also look ahead with hope and determination. The Foundation remains rooted in its founding values, yet continues to evolve to meet new challenges and opportunities.
We invite you to be part of the legacy of Lake Washington Schools Foundation. Make our donation today at www.lwsf.org/donate.
Community members celebrate LWSF’s 20th anniversary at Be the Bridge Spring Benefit on March 27, 2025.
Founding trustee Pat Vaché reminisces have LWSF’s founding years.
Founding trustee Siri Bliesner shares LWSF’s core values.
