Athens group enriches educational experience
By Rich Flowers
The Athens Public Education Foundation serves up a night to remember in April , with the ultimate goal of enriching the educational experience for Athens ’ students .
APEF presents Athens City Limits , a full evening of food , beverages , music and entertainment , from 7 p . m . until 11 p . m . April 30 at the Nightingale on NE Loop 7 .
Tickets are $ 50 . That will get you in the door , your meal and one mixed drink . APED board president Cody Craig said the price is the lowest it ’ s been for any of the organization ’ s major fundraisers . You can go to the Eventbrite website to purchase tickets .
“ We wanted to make it affordable for everyone in the community ,” Craig said . “ We wanted everyone to come out and party with us .”
The location is one of Athens newest venues . The Nightingale is open for weddings and other celebrations and was recently the location of the Chamber of Commerce Gala .
APEF supports Athens ISD student programs , projects and initiatives that do not receive tax-based funding . The foundation also recognizes academic excellence by students and innovative instruction by teachers and staff . Craig said tax money funds education in the state , but districts are challenged just to provide the basic needs . He said very few people would go to a car dealership and ask for the bare minimum of options on the car . We want a little extra comfort or functionality in our vehicles and homes . We should also want to deliver more than just the basics for our students .
“ That mindset is why at the Athens Public Education Foundation , we do what we do ,” Craig said . “ We want to be sure our kids have experiences and educational opportunity that they can remember throughout their entire life .”
Most of the about $ 500,000 APEF has used to help Athens schools and students through the years has been raised an annual special event . No event was held in 2020 and 2021 , resulting in funds drying up , leaving little on hand to aid the schools .
“ We ’ re still pumping funds into the campuses as best we can ,” Craig said . “ If we don ’ t have a great year this year , though , my board members will tell you that the till is going to eventually be empty .”
APEF is changing up its fundraiser a bit this year , moving it to the spring and calling it Athens City Limits . Think of it as a big party . But if you were a fan of Casino Night , in the past , don ’ t worry . There will be tables as part of the action this year .
The new , earlier date will allow APEF to add an additional highlight to the celebration .
“ One thing we ’ re going to be doing , since it ’ s in the spring , is honoring the teachers of the year ,” Craig said .
In past school terms , APEF has awarded top teachers some cash to help in their classrooms , but there was no formal recognition ceremony . That changes this year .
Board Vice President Amanda DeShazo is spearheading the Athens City Limits . That includes arranging for
12 | Greater Athens Magazine | March 2022