ROCHELLE — The David Crawford Foundation will be having its annual Pancake Day on Saturday, March 10 from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Rochelle Middle School. Funds generated from this annual event help the Rochelle Elementary School District to acquire additional resources for teachers and students.
The David Crawford Foundation was established in memory of David Crawford, Superintendent of Rochelle Elementary School District 231 from 1941 to 1972. Its’ purpose is to provide support for enhancing the quality of education consistent with the principles he espoused.
These principles include: A commitment to quality educational opportunity for all children, regardless of background or ability; respect for, and appreciation of the diversity of the school community; instilling the basic values of citizenship, cooperation, fairness, and service to school and community; ongoing improvement in teaching through creative innovation of methodologies and technologies.
All monies raised by the David Crawford Foundation go directly to teachers and students in the school district. In past years teachers have received funding to purchase supplemental classroom materials, such as math activities, games, literature, and incentives that enhance the quality of education provided to the students.

Pat Casey, David Crawford Foundation Board Member, said each year the foundation receives grant applications from district teachers, which includes a requested amounted along with the intended purpose. Two of the board members along with Supt. Todd Prusator review the list and disburse the funds, which are dependent on the total amount of the proceeds from the breakfast.
Casey said as a former teacher, she understands there are materials or supplies that cannot always be purchased due to budget constraints.
“We really like to honor their requests…I used to be a teacher and I know how much money I would spend for my classroom. There are just some things you would like to have as a teacher,” Casey said. “I am honored to be on the board. This is wonderful for the teachers.”
Tickets for the Pancake Day are $6 each. Children age five and under eat free. Tickets are available from students in the grade schools and the middle school, or are available at the door.
“This is our only fundraiser to raise money to give to the teachers to purchase special learning materials for their students,” Casey said.