One of the highlights each spring at the Chatham Education Foundation is watching students walk into a Books on Break fair and leave carrying tote bags filled with books they get to keep forever. The excitement on their faces never gets old. But those smiles don’t happen by accident. This

by Cate House, Marketing Manager, Chatham Education Foundation When I arrived at the Chatham County Schools Central Office to interview Dr. Kelly Batten, I was pleasantly surprised to find him walking into the lobby—before I’d even had a chance to tell the receptionist my business. He quickly pointed out a

There’s just something about kids and animals. At the Chatham Education Foundation’s Books on Break free book fairs, animal books are always some of the first to fly off the tables. This year was no exception. Fortunately, for Books on Break 2026, CEF had Vickie Hannah, a Chatham County resident

Books on Break at Bennett School was a true family affair. On June 5, 2026, the Chatham Education Foundation brought the fair to Bennett for the first time. Gary Leonard, Chair of the Chatham County Board of Education and a former Bennett student and teacher, asked CEF to consider bringing

Manjiree and Sham Nikam are doting grandparents to six grandchildren, ranging in age from six weeks to nine years. They treasure storytime with them and believe all children should have access to books that transport them to different places and broaden their understanding of the world. That belief is what

This May, hundreds of Pittsboro Elementary students headed home with free books to read over the summer—thanks to a gift rooted in a lifelong love of reading. In memory of her husband, Robert Myers, Peggy Myers coordinated a collective gift of $8,000 to support Chatham Education Foundation’s Books on Break

“Brightspeed is proud to support initiatives that strengthen the communities we serve,” said Tali Kulbeda, Head of Local Marketing and Partnerships at Brightspeed. “Access to books and literacy resources is essential, and we’re honored to work alongside the Chatham Education Foundation to help students succeed.” In 2026, Books on Break

At the April 13, 2026 meeting of the Chatham County Board of Education, the Board passed two resolutions related to school funding and legislative advocacy. These items reflect ongoing concerns about the stability of school funding, the importance of local decision-making, and the need to support students and educators across our

Every year during Teacher Appreciation Week (May 4–8), teachers are showered with sweet treats, gift cards, and handwritten thank-you notes. It’s a fun and meaningful way to celebrate those who shape our children’s lives every day. These gestures matter, and they are deeply appreciated. But if we want to make

Join CEF at free book fairs across Chatham County this May and June and help students choose books of their own to keep and enjoy over the summer. Books on Break is one of the most joyful ways to support local students. Volunteers help children browse and choose books to