The Brookwood Schools Foundation plays a quiet but important role in supporting public education across the Brookwood High School cluster. While many families recognize the foundation through its annual Run the Reagan race, much of its work happens behind the scenes throughout the school year.
The foundation operates independently from Gwinnett County Public Schools and does not receive tax funding. Instead, it raises private funds that are reinvested directly into classrooms and educational programs serving students in the Brookwood cluster, including schools in Lawrenceville, Snellville, and Lilburn.
What the Brookwood Schools Foundation Does
The Brookwood Schools Foundation is run entirely by local volunteers. Board members and volunteers are typically parents, former parents, and community members with direct ties to Brookwood-area schools. The foundation does not employ paid staff and relies on community involvement to carry out its mission.
Funds raised by the foundation are most often distributed through teacher grants. These grants allow teachers to apply for funding for classroom resources, learning tools, and enrichment opportunities that may not fit within standard school budgets. The goal is to give teachers flexibility to enhance instruction and provide additional learning experiences for students.
By focusing exclusively on one school cluster, the foundation ensures that every dollar raised has a clear and local impact.
Run the Reagan and Community Support
The foundation's largest annual fundraiser is Run the Reagan, a community road race held along Ronald Reagan Parkway. The event attracts participants from the Brookwood area and from outside the community, bringing in additional support that directly benefits local schools.
In addition to Run the Reagan, the foundation raises money year-round through individual donations and partnerships with local businesses. These efforts allow the foundation to support classrooms throughout the year, not just during a single event.
Why It Matters Locally
Public schools operate within fixed budgets, and teachers often look for ways to expand learning opportunities for their students. The Brookwood Schools Foundation helps bridge that gap by providing targeted funding where it can make an immediate difference.
Because the foundation focuses solely on the Brookwood High School cluster, all funds raised stay local. Support goes directly back into classrooms and programs serving students who attend schools in the cluster.
For families living around the Brookwood area, this local focus reinforces a strong connection between community support and day-to-day learning.
Matt Weber is a Brookwood graduate and has co-owned Dogwood Pizza with his family for more than 20 years. What's Up Brookwood was created to share positive local news from around the community. If you know a local business, nonprofit, or event that should be featured, send a message or stop by the restaurant.