By TR Robertson
The November meeting of the Youth Enrichment Services Community Collaborative members heard a presentation from Jennifer Monroe, Communications Manager for The Carlsbad Educational Foundation. The CEF is the largest financial district-wide supporter for Carlsbad Unified School District. Founded in 1983 by a small group of community members interested in building a library for Carlsbad High School, the CEF has grown into an organization that has contributed over $13.4 million in programs and awards to CUSD staff and students. The most recent contribution was $1.1 million to the music programs, STEM and innovative education in the district. CEF supports over 11,000 students in 14 schools in the district. The importance of CEF is especially important as CUSD is the 2nd lowest funded unified district in San Diego County receiving $3,078 less per student than students in San Diego Unified.
The funds raised through private and corporate donations goes to finance a wide variety of activities for students K-12. Some of the programs included in the funding process include LEGO robotics, science and music programs, Discovery Museum, Leadership Council, Environmental studies, Project Lead the Way, Science Olympiad, International Baccalaureate, the High School Spring Musicals and much more. CEF has also contributed College Scholarships to many High School graduates in the amount of $1,000 each. Jennifer pointed out that the high schools have a 94% graduation rate, ranking 4th highest in San Diego County. Money is raised through a variety of programs with one main source being the partnership CEP has with Viasat, Nordson, Thermo Fisher Scientific and Erickson Hall Construction. Taylor Beveridge, Director of Philanthropy for CEF was also available to answer any questions. Contact jennifer@carlsbaded.org or go to www.CarlsbadEd.org.
Reports:
Kathy Kinance reminded the group that the Oceanside Turkey Trot will be held on Thanksgiving Day. The Oside Turkey Trot is expected to have over 7,000 participants. www.Osideturkeytrot.com.
Bob Elliott with the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence – San Diego gave a report on the significant rise in opiod use in San Diego County.
Heather Bensen gave a report on the Carlsbad Equality Coalition Speech Contest that is open to all Carlsbad Unified middle and high school students.
Jonathan Gomez from Mira Costa Jr. College reported that Spring Class enrollment will soon begin and one-half of the classes will be in-person for fully vaccinated individuals. $1,500 emergency grants are also open for applications. Go to www.miracosta.edu/schedules for information.
Rose Pellegrini from Safe Families for Children reported that the organization assists children and families in providing safe home environments. Call 714-543-5437 for information or email pellegrini@olivecrest.org.
