The Hillcrest High School Community Foundation‘s priority is for the Preston Hollow high school to become “Dallas’ school of choice,” but the foundation has every intention of helping its feeder pattern schools, too.

“We just see it as a community of care and support for all of the children in all of the schools,” says Christy Bednar, secretary of the foundation and Hillcrest alumna.

Formally established in May 2015 after years of discussion, the education foundation’s goals include:

  • Providing financial support to Hillcrest, Benjamin Franklin Middle School, Dealey Montessori, Anne Frank Elementary, Kramer Elementary, Pershing Elementary, Preston Hollow Elementary and Dan D. Rogers Elementary.
  • Contributing to Hillcrest High School Alumni Association and PTA scholarships.
  • Supporting feeder schools’ capital projects and technology needs.
  • Encouraging the establishment of International Baccalaureate curriculum at each school.

“We want to be ahead of the curve,” says Andy Moyer, president of the foundation. “We want to be doing things even Woodrow isn’t doing.”

Moyer, whose children already graduated from Hillcrest, believes the foundation’s collaborative approach has several benefits. If each school offers the same educational opportunities, such as IB curriculum, students will be on the same playing field before they begin high school, Moyer says. Supporting each feeder school also advertises Hillcrest to families who may otherwise consider enrolling their children in a private school.

“We need to be able to make the case that there are many very good reasons to continue with the educational process,” he says.

Through the foundation’s 501(c)3 status, it now can participate in North Texas Giving Day, something Preston Hollow private schools have benefitted from for years.  In 2015, eight of the top 10 charities that raised funds in our neighborhood were private schools, collectively raising $1,560,082.92 for facilities, extra-curricular activities and field trips.

Funds received through private donations or North Texas Giving Day will be distributed based on need, foundation members say. The PTA and foundation also look to work in tandem to determine where that need lies and how best to advocate for the community.

“Word of mouth is huge for us,” Moyer says. “The financial aspect is very valued also, but the knowledge of what we’re doing is important.”