Bridgeport, CT May 6: DonorsChoose.org was recently awarded the "Elizabeth M. Pfriem Civic Leadership Award" by the Bridgeport Public Education Fund (BPEF). The award, established in 1995 to honor Elizabeth Pfriem, an active local philanthropist and child advocate, is awarded each year to a person or organization whose work in the Bridgeport community promotes equity and academic achievement for local students.DonorsChoose.org launched its Connecticut expansion this school year in Bridgeport, the second largest school system in the state, in October 2007. Through DonorsChoose.org to date, more than 600 teachers and their students have received $160,000 in much needed classroom resources!Andy Kaplan, Chief Financial Officer of DonorsChoose.org and I, accepted the award at the 2008 Teacher Recognition & Celebration event hosted by the BPEF, a local education foundation that develops programs and mobilizes the community for quality public education. The BPEF celebrated its 25th anniversary of service to Bridgeport schools by recognizing 8 outstanding local teachers and awarding visionary school leaders and community members. Remarks were made made by Bridgeport mayor Bill Finch, superintendent Dr. John Ramos, and representatives from Governor Jodi Rell's office and Congressman Christopher Shays' office.DonorsChoose.org is honored to be recognized by this wonderful community of educators. Thanks Bridgeport!
