Anna weldon/special to the town crier LAEF President Mike Maciag, left, hands the check to Superintendent Tim Justus.

The Los Altos Educational Foundation (LAEF) announced May 3 that it has raised $1.45 million, its total financial commitment to the Los Altos School District (LASD) for the 2005-2006 school year.

Allocation of the grant enables the district to fund enough teachers and aides to maintain smaller class sizes and enrichment programs such as technology, science, art, music and physical education for children in grades K-8.

Over the past two decades, LAEF has increased its annual fund-raising goal twentyfold to meet the growing needs of the district. Without LAEF funds, such districtwide programs would not be possible.

“Once again Los Altos community members have affirmed their support of our public schools through their generous donations, and this has enabled the district to deliver the best public education in the state,” LAEF President Mike Maciag said. “Thanks to the support of parents, community members and local businesses, LAEF was able to meet our $1.45 million goal and provide enrichment programs and class-size reduction that would not be possible without the financial support of the community.”

Over the past 23 years, LAEF has raised more than $11.15 million to enhance the district’s academic program. School administrators and staff rely on the additional resources made possible by LAEF funding.

“Each year we face great uncertainty in state funding priorities,” said Superintendent Tim Justus. “We are grateful for LAEF’s significant financial support to help us continue to be among the top-ranked school districts in the state. Enrichment programs, along with small class sizes, allow us to create an environment that enhances learning and allows each child to reach his or her potential.”

For more information, call 559-0445 or visit www.laefonline.org.