Key Points:
• Fulton County Schools names the Sandy Springs Education Force as its Legacy of Excellence Partner of the Year.
• FCS Board Vice Chair Franchesca Warren calls SSEF’s impact on Sandy Springs schools “undeniable.”
Fulton County Schools named the Sandy Springs Education Force (SSEF) as its 2025 Legacy of Excellence Partner of the Year on Oct. 30.
The award was made at a celebration for approximately 1,000 Fulton County Schools (FCS) teachers, professionals, partners, and guests at the Georgia International Convention Center. According to a press release, the award celebrates outstanding community partnerships that make a lasting difference for students and educators.
“This year’s Legacy of Excellence Partner of the Year exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose and heart,” said Franchesca Warren, vice president of the FCS Board of Education, according to the release. “From collaboration to innovation, this organization is a driving force for students and teachers across Learning Zone 4.”
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Warren said SSEF has 18 programs supporting 10 schools, according to the release. She said the organization begins every partnership with one question: “What do you need?” Its programs include a summer book club that helps students stay on track with reading, and the High Demand Career Fair that connects graduates with employers like Northside Hospital and Emory. The SSEF Teacher’s Supply Closet equips classrooms with essential materials. With programs like these, Warren said SSEF’s impact is undeniable.
SSEF Executive Director Irene Schweiger accepted the honor. She was joined by SSEF board members Emily Hewitt, Julia Bernath, Carolyn Axt, Judy Roseman, Katie Gregory, and Alexandra Bates, along with SSEF Programming Director Beppie Lever and Marketing Director Miriam Salpeter.
“Since 2008, Sandy Springs Education Force has proudly served as a leading education nonprofit in Sandy Springs,” Schweiger said, according to the release. “We are deeply grateful to Fulton County Schools for recognizing our impact with this distinguished honor and look forward to building on our strong partnerships to continue to deliver programs that educate, inspire, and prepare public school students in Sandy Springs for success in a competitive world.”
SSEF is dedicated to providing innovative educational programs and resources to public school students in Sandy Springs, according to its mission statement. Through partnerships with businesses, community organizations, and schools, and with the help of volunteers, SSEF designs and delivers free programs in the 10 public schools in Sandy Springs to supplement and multiply all students’ positive academic and personal experiences.
