There's a reason why the Los Altos Education Fund has endured for thirty years—community support!
So it was no surprise Friday night that when the foundation celebrated its 30th anniversary, members knew exactly how they wanted to commemorate the occasion— throw a party and invite the whole city!
And Los Altans responded in droves!
More than 1,400 people made their way into and onto the Covington campus for a can't-miss celebration Sept. 28. While folks feasted on food truck cuisine, kids played festive carnival games manned by area junior high and high school students. Even the Girl Scouts lent a helping hand, painting colorful animal motifs on smiling faces; as well, the Boy Scouts offered assistance with car parking.
As the DJ spun snappy tunes and party goers danced, LAEF board members enjoyed reminiscing with past members who came out to join in the celebration.
According to current co-president Kristine Bardman, the first large donation was $1,000 from the Los Altos School District non-teaching staff in 1982. Since that time, the foundation has raised more than $23 million.
"LAEF empowers parents to provide a vehicle to improve their community schools. It is not just about improving their child's school, it is about making a difference in every child's education in the district," Bardman explained. "Our community values education, which why an increasing number of donors, who do not currently have children in the district, choose to donate."
LAEF provides enrichment programs such as art, music, STEM (science-technology-engineering-math), and physical education. Bardman said that the Los Altos school district maintains a reputation of excellence and is a source of community pride. LAEF's goal is to support the programs that will help children become well-rounded and find success throughout their lives.
"I think most parents remember how important those programs were in their educational experience and that inspires them to donate," Bardman reflected. "The reason why LAEF has endured for 30 years is support from not only the parents and staff, but the entire community. "
For more information on LAEF, please check out this link: http://laefonline.net/
