Valedictorian Interview

BEF is pleased to feature valedictorian interviews from two great partners, Ian Barnacle from Residential Properties and David Coleman from Mott & Chace Sotheby’s International Realty. Thanks to Helen Copple, the BEF Student Representative for conducting these interviews.

Ian Barnacle, Residential Properties

Please provide a brief description of your business and your role there:
Ian Barnacle. I work in residential real estate for Residential Properties, and I am a broker/manager of the Barrington office. I focus on why people want to live in Barrington, and part of the reason is because of the excellent school district.
Why did you and the Residential Properties choose to invest in BEF?
It was a pay it forward situation. People want to live in Barrington because of the excellent school systems and, through donating to BEF, it allowed us to uphold this standard.
How did you come to learn about BEF?
Community involvement. Hannah Clancy and Elizabeth Kirk were board members of the BEF and they brought BEF to Residential Properties. When they showed BEF to Residential Properties, we had seen the amazing work they had already accomplished and wanted to support this foundation.
How do you see BEF fulfilling its mission to champion extraordinary educational opportunities within Barrington Public Schools?
BEF is always doing amazing projects with technology; they had a 3D printer before I even knew what a 3D printer was. Every aspect that BEF sees a void in the Barrington school system, BEF works to fill that void.
What would you say to other commercial entities to encourage BEF engagement?
It’s a wonderful way to support the Barrington community and is a real benefit to the community. I really have seen how positively it has impacted our town, and it is a wonderful way to support this town that supports our businesses.
What would you like to see BEF do in the next 25 years?
I would like to see them continue what they’re doing. I want to see them grow and keep adding to the education system. The board has been great and I cannot say enough about the work they have done, and I hope that others see the benefit of BEF too.

David Coleman, Mott & Chace Sotheby’s International Realty

Please provide a brief description of your business and your role there:
Our location is on 21 County Road. Since 1956, Coleman Realtors have been in the East Bay. 6 years ago, we merged with Mott & Chace Sotheby’s. We focus on residential real estate in the East Bay, and have prominent work in Barrington.
Why did you and the Mott & Chace Sotheby’s Realtors choose to invest in BEF?
We know the correlation between quality schools and good real estate. We wanted to keep the reputation of Barrington Public Schools alive. Schools are a driving force for Barrington, and resale is important for home owners. The better the schools, the better the resale value of homes.
How did you come to learn about BEF?
I am a Barrington Resident and have had three children in school system. By being a community member, I heard about the foundation.
How do you see BEF fulfilling its mission to champion extraordinary educational opportunities within Barrington Public Schools?
I’ve seen it in the way they’ve supported ALL the schools. They benefitted each school completely throughout the town. Quality of schools is quality of teachers and subject matter, students who want to be challenged are challenged. There is not one school that is better than the other, each one is paid attention to.
What would you say to other commercial entities to encourage BEF engagement?
There is always a turnover in town. Commercial and retail business need to understand schools are important, and any support will enhance their business. Families place a large emphasis on education and, by donating to BEF, you are donating to the community.
What would you like to see BEF do in the next 25 years?
Promote their message more throughout town. Make it clear their work supports the WHOLE community, not just parents/students.
Anything else?
We are fully aware that quality of schools is directly related to quality of education. People want to buy homes in towns with quality schools. BEF helps to contribute to the purchasing power of real estate.