What is SEF?
Who runs SEF?
What does the SEF grant support?
Why do we need a foundation like SEF?
Public school is supposed to be free. Why do I have to pay?
Why are both PTA and SEF raising money for the schools?
How much should I give?
What is SEF's administrative overhead?
Can I donate stocks?
How is company matching handled?
How can I get more involved in SEF?

What is SEF?

The Saratoga Education Foundation (SEF) is a non-profit organization committed to supporting quality education at the four public schools of the Saratoga Union School District (SUSD): Argonaut Elementary, Foothill Elementary, Saratoga Elementary and Redwood Middle. SEF is supported by parents, community members and businesses.   Over the past 25 years, the SEF has been the primary fundraising organization for our schools and has granted over $11 million to fund essential programs. 

Who runs SEF?

SEF is administered by an all-volunteer board comprised of parents from the four schools in the Saratoga Union School District. The board usually has between 30 and 35 voting members, with many additional parents helping in supportive roles.  The Superintendent, School Board members, and principals attend meetings in an advisory capacity. Board meetings are open to the public. 

What does the SEF grant support?

Funds collected by the foundation benefit every child in every school in the Saratoga Union School District.  SEF donated $1,188,440 for the 2007-08 school year. SEF's grant is funding hands-on science, music, art, theatre, librarians, computer instruction, physical education, and a counselor in grades K-5. For grades 6-8, the following are funded: library and media center teacher, art aide, two science teachers, and two counselors. View areas on What we fund.

Why do we need a foundation like SEF?

In the 60’s, the public schools in California were some of the best in the country, but the 70’s brought change to the school financing structure, principally with Proposition 13. With significantly less money available for school budgets, school boards had to cut programs such as music, art, libraries and PE. Foundations like SEF popped up in communities around the Bay Area in the early 80s to fill in where state funding left gaping holes. Throughout the Bay Area you will find education foundations…Menlo Park, Los Altos, Cupertino, Palo Alto all have foundations. It’s a fact of life in California communities with strong school districts that they have the support of an education foundation. Saratoga parents have always been very supportive of the foundation because they understand the importance of these programs to their children’s school day.

Public school is supposed to be free. Why do I have to pay?

Great communities like Saratoga choose to support a public education system of the highest quality; it’s part of the promise we make to our own children. However, the reality of public school funding in California is that property taxes just are not enough. Currently, California ranks 46th in the nation in state spending per student.  The best school districts in our country invest about $15,000 per pupil per year. Yet even with the support of SEF, we are only investing about $8300 per pupil in Saratoga (05/06). We want our children to have every advantage and be competitive with students from across the state, country and across the globe, so we must invest in them and their schools. Your tax-deductible contribution is pooled with those of hundreds of other families in order to maximize our impact across the district.

Why are both PTA and SEF raising money for the schools?

Both organizations provide important support for our schools.  SEF raises money to fund essential school programs and the salaries of the teachers to teach those programs, as well as enrichment science programming, while PTA funds site-specific needs like computers, playground equipment, special events and teacher grants.  In fact, funding from SEF represents between 7-9% of the district’s total operating budget. 

How much should I give?

As a guideline, we hope that every family in our district will consider giving at the leadership level which is $700 per child in the school district. Please make a gift commensurate with your ability and the value of this investment in your child’s future. For families who may be able to give significantly more, we encourage you to join one of our giving levels and demonstrate your commitment to your child, our schools and our community. Any and all donations are appreciated. View details on why you should give.

What is SEF's administrative overhead?

For the 2006-2007 school year, our administrative and fundraising expenses were approximately 4.5% of income.  We consistently keep the overhead to 5% or less.

Can I donate stocks?

Yes. In fact, donating appreciated stocks can be a tax-savvy way to make your donation. To donate non-cash assets, including stocks or a car, please email our Asset Donation Board Member.

How is company matching handled?

Many corporations offer matching donation programs. If your company matches personal contributions to charitable organizations, you may be able to double your contribution by simply requesting a matching donation from your company. You must initiate the matching contribution by requesting and completing a special form. Forms are typically available through your company HR department or on your company web site.  The SEF Federal Tax ID# is 94-2853969. Contact our matching guru.

How can I get more involved in SEF?

SEF is comprised of volunteers who are concerned parents just like you. Sign up here to become a volunteer, call the SEF office at (408) 867-3424 extension 314, email us, or talk to any of the SEF board members. We welcome all volunteers! For additional information, check out the org chart and job descriptions pages.

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