HGCF has sought to have a positive impact on education, both by initiating  programs in this area and by supporting existing institutions and programs.

The foundation has been particularly active in promoting recognition for outstanding teachers through the Pioneer Valley Awards for Excellence in Teaching launched in academic year 2002-2003 to honor exceptionally talented and dedicated teachers.
 

Sixteen school communities in the Pioneer Valley took part in the first year of the program and the number is growing. In addition to a cash award, the honored teachers are also given unique opportunities to participate in technology workshops and become mentors for education interns in collaboration with Springfield College.

Since 1997, at the initiative of Dr. Mary Anne Herron, HGCF has also supported the Lumin Society, a program which encourages promising but economically disadvantaged students from middle school through high school to achieve academic excellence and continue to higher education. The program identifies and supports students who demonstrate potential to achieve at a high level. It also strives to help students who are reaching high but could benefit from a more  encouraging environment.
 

The Lumins receive academic coaching, are encouraged to act as role models for other students and receive financial rewards in the form of “financial credit” towards a college education.

HGCF has also been a major supporter of the Hatikvah Holocaust Education Center in Springfield, MA, which combats prejudice and discrimination by teaching the history and lessons of the Holocaust. Hatikvah is now supported through the Harold Grinspoon Foundation instead of HGCF.

The foundation has been a long-time  supporter of the Pioneer Valley Regional Education and Business Alliance (REBA), which helps to sustain and enhance the region's economy by assisting public schools in their efforts to measurably improve the knowledge, skills and abilities of all students.

HGCF helps fund REBA’s annual Results Showcase, which exhibits the best entrepreneurial efforts of students at area high schools.

HGCF’s ever-growing efforts to promote entrepreneurial education are outlined in greater detail in the following, separate, section under the headline Entrepreneurship.

Grantees:

• Elias Brooking School - The Lumin Society, Springfield
• Financial Fitness Foundation, Springfield
• Hatikvah Holocaust Education Center, Springfield
• Regional Education & Business Alliance – Results Showcase, Springfield
• Pioneer Valley Awards for Excellence in Jewish Education
• United States Holocaust Museum,Washington DC