From boosting college acceptance to providing scholarship opportunities, strong ACT scores can open doors for students. They are also an indicator of a school district’s academic readiness. Districts with higher averages of students achieving a 19 (the UNC System’s minimum for admission) or above, demonstrate strong college preparation, and when

The Chatham Education Foundation (CEF) is proud to announce its Fall 2025 CEF Teaching Grant recipients. From musical instruments and STEM kits to interactive literacy tools, Chatham County students will soon have access to a wide range of hands-on, engaging learning resources—thanks to the generosity of CEF donors. This year,

Chatham Reads, a partnership of the Chatham Education Foundation and Chatham County Schools, is excited to introduce a new, convenient way for our community to support young readers across Chatham County: Children’s Book Donation Boxes at local businesses and partner locations. All year long, we accept new and gently used

There are many reasons a student may be experiencing homelessness. One Chatham County high-school student, for example, was living with his family in their vehicle after the house they were renting was sold. Sometimes they would stay in a hotel for a few days, but that was no longer an

Just in time for the holidays, Chatham Reads and McIntrye’s Books have teamed up to compile a children’s book gift guide. Whether you’re looking for the perfect book for your child or want to purchase a book for a child in need, these picks are sure to be favorites with

If you’re a parent (or student!) dreading the college application process, here’s some good news: your child may automatically be admitted to numerous North Carolina colleges and universities—both public and private. That’s right—no essay or test scores required.  This year’s seniors should have already received an official letter in the

The Chatham Education Foundation (CEF) is proud to announce the addition of six new members to its Board of Directors. Diana Hales, John Holdsclaw IV, Dr. Carolyn Jefferson-Jenkins, Susan Lee, Rev. Brent Levy, and Manjiree Nikam bring a wide range of expertise in education, community development, business, and advocacy, helping

When Jennifer Tuite, a 3rd grade teacher at Perry Harrison Elementary, graduated from UNC Chapel Hill in 2003 with a degree in elementary education, she looked far and wide for a teaching position. To get her foot in the door, she was willing to take an assistant teaching position, even

Caroline Murrell (in red), our amazing SECU Public Fellows intern, spent her summer supporting Chatham students and teachers through CEF projects like Books on Break, CEF Teaching Grants, and book donation boxes. As a Chatham County native, this work was especially meaningful to her—and to us! Following is her reflection

Even if you’ve never bought a lottery ticket in North Carolina, you’ve certainly seen the ads on television and at every single gas station for the North Carolina Education Lottery (NCEL). It’s impossible to miss!  But what may be easier to overlook is just how little the lottery actually contributes