The Foundation for Portland Public Schools (FPPS) is thrilled to announce that it has received a $1 million donation, half of which is earmarked for supporting arts and music education in the Portland Public Schools system. The donation, made by anonymous donors through the Maine Community Foundation, will allow FPPS to build on existing arts and music programs and launch a new arts partnership. The remaining $500,000 from this generous donation is an unrestricted gift to FPPS.

“These donors have shown remarkable generosity,” said Andi Summers, Executive Director of the Foundation for Portland Public Schools. “Their support will allow Portland Public Schools students to have experiences and opportunities they wouldn’t have otherwise. It will transform the work that we do as a foundation.”

The Foundation launched its Music & the Arts Fund in 2022. It has replaced kilns in schools, purchased and repaired musical instruments, and given students opportunities to attend a range of concerts and performances. This year, it is piloting a new program, the PPS Arts Partnership, which aims to bring local artists into classrooms to support and enhance the curriculum.

“As graduates of the Portland Public Schools, we are excited to support the work of the Foundation for Portland Public Schools and, more specifically, its arts fund,” said the donors, who wish to remain anonymous. “Exposure to and participation in the arts – whether visual, musical or performance – are essential elements of a well-rounded education. All students deserve to access inspiration and to discover their creativity through the arts.”

Music and arts education align with the Whole Student goal of the district's Strategic Plan, which calls for nurturing supportive, inclusive school communities that promote belonging and engagement among all students, their families, and the broader community, and the plan's Achievement goal.

Photo: Rowe Elementary School students participating in a Side x Side program integrated into Wabanaki Studies

The Foundation for Portland Public Schools is a nonprofit organization with a mission to be a catalyst for increased educational opportunities, achievement, and equity for all Portland Public Schools students and staff. Learn more about us at www.foundationforpps.org.

The Portland Public Schools is Maine’s largest school district, with approximately 6,500 students, and it’s also the most diverse. About one-third of the district’s students come from homes where languages other than English are spoken—a total of 59 languages. Approximately 47 percent of the district’s students are white and 53 percent are students of color. Over half of PPS students qualify for free or reduced-price school meals.

The Maine Community Foundation brings people and resources together to build a better Maine through strategic giving, community leadership, personalized service, local expertise and strong investments. To learn more about the foundation, visit www.mainecf.org.