Shrewsbury – The Shrewsbury Education Foundation (SEF) will hold its annual Awards Fundraising Dinner Saturday, Jan. 24, at Cyprian Keyes Golf Club in Boylston. The event will honor this year’s educational grant recipients and John P. Collins Awards for Excellence recipients along with Dr. Joseph Sawyer for his outstanding service to the community and the Shrewsbury Public Schools.
The Community Service Award is granted to a town leader who goes above and beyond in delivering outstanding services to the community and to the Shrewsbury Public Schools. Dr. Joseph Sawyer has been an integral part of the community since 1997 when he became the assistant principal at Floral Street School. In his current role as superintendent, he is passionate about education and spends significant time beyond the normal work day and job requirements to ensure that the children of Shrewsbury receive an excellent education. During the recent Proposition 2 ½ override campaign, Sawyer played a pivotal role in providing the community with clear and concise information regarding education practices and costs. His clear understanding of the educational needs of the community coupled with his patience and guidance became critical instruments leading to the success of the override campaign. The SEF is grateful for his leadership and unwavering dedication to the community and the Shrewsbury Public Schools.
The John P. Collins Award honors the exemplary efforts of those whose work brings to life the mission of the Shrewsbury Public Schools. The award is named for former Superintendent John P. Collins, Ph.D., who served for 16 years in Shrewsbury (1978-1994) and continues to exemplify the highest standards of professionalism and a commitment to lifelong learning.
The SEF is an all-volunteer organization that raises money to fund grants which put resources and programs directly into the classroom. Shrewsbury Public School teachers write grant applications seeking funding for unique learning experiences and resources that will directly benefit students.
