GRANT

The MPAEF made a record $2 million grant to the Menlo Park City School District at the School Board meeting on June 19, 2007.  The unrestricted grant will fund essential programs in five areas: libraries, science, music education, technology, and teaching excellence.  Of the $2 million grant, $250,000 represents a new fund to support the recruitment, retention, and career development of certified teachers. Click here for details about the grant (.pdf) and how the district will allocate the funds.

The grant, the largest in the foundation’s 25-year history, represents a 25% increase over the foundation’s grant to the school district a year ago.  The MPAEF raised the funds primarily through its Annual Giving campaign, with the participation of more than half of the families in the district, and through its annual auction, held in May.   

 “With the MPAEF’s support, the district can continue to provide essential programs to our students, and attract and retain the most qualified teaching professionals.  This grant represents a significant portion of the district’s operating budget, and we simply could not maintain the excellence of our schools without the support of the many families who contribute to the foundation.”

--Ken Ranella, Superintendent, Menlo Park City School District

“We are thrilled to make this historic grant to the Menlo Park City School District.  It represents the commitment of families throughout the district to ensure the long term health of our schools and to provide a promising foundation to all our children.”

--Maria Hilton, MPAEF Co-President (2006-07)