Former teacher and her husband create new fund for Willow Brook school

A new philanthropic fund at Willow Brook Elementary School has been established by longtime Oak Ridge residents and community supporters James and Patricia Wilson.

Oak Ridge Public Schools Education Foundation (ORPSEF) Executive Director Mike Taylor made the announcement at the Oak Ridge Board of Education's Aug. 24 meeting in the School Administration Building on New York Avenue.

The Wilsons created the fund to provide support for Willow Brook teachers and students while encouraging continued community investment in public education in Oak Ridge through the foundation.

For Patricia, the gift represents a meaningful connection to a school that has long held a special place in her heart. She taught first grade at Willow Brook Elementary from 1966 to 1979 under the leadership of former Principal Herbert Dodd. During her years in the classroom, she helped shape the lives of countless young learners and developed a deep appreciation for the Willow Brook community, according to a news release from Oak Ridge Schools.

To share their excitement about this opportunity, the Wilsons visited Willow Brook in May for a special tour of the school. They met current students and teachers. During their visit, students and staff shared handwritten thank-you notes, cards, and posters that lined the hallways in appreciation of the family's generosity and continued support.

"Willow Brook has always held a special place in our hearts and it was incredibly meaningful to return and see the same spirit of learning, care, and community still thriving today," Patricia said. "We are honored to support the students and teachers who make the school so special."

The Wilsons have long been recognized for their generosity, leadership, and commitment to education throughout the Oak Ridge community. Together, they have established several post-secondary scholarships to support student success beyond high school. In addition, James has served on the board of the Roane State Community College Foundation, further demonstrating the family's dedication to expanding educational opportunities for students of all ages.

As active and engaged members of the Oak Ridge community, the Wilsons hope this new fund will not only benefit Willow Brook students and staff, but also inspire others to invest in the future of public education locally.

"We are pleased to support the children of our city now and for decades to come," James said. "We're calling on others to join us in this effort to support our public schools and educators. Our children are our future."

Founded in 2000, the Oak Ridge Public Schools Education Foundation (ORPSEF) enhances, supports, and promotes excellence in Oak Ridge Schools. It invests in initiatives that enrich student learning, expand professional development opportunities, foster innovative instruction, advance workforce development, and increase access to cutting-edge technology in the classroom. Learn more about the work of ORPSEF by visiting the website at www.orpsef.org.

ADD TITLE TO GROUP PHOTO OF DAVID BRADSHAW

This article originally appeared on Oakridger: Former teacher and her husband create new fund for Willow Brook school