PEF’s FANNS “Technology Challenge” Raises More Than $118,000

As the result of the Pasadena Educational Foundation’s successful “Technology Challenge” initiative, 24 PUSD schools have raised significant funds – a total of $118,729 — to pay for technology at their schools.

The “Technology Challenge” was the first initiative of a new PEF group formed last fall called “Families and Neighbors Supporting Schools” or PEF FANSS. The group aims to involve more PUSD families in the work of the PEF, and to raise greater awareness in the community about the foundation and how it supports Pasadena’s schools.

The “Technology Challenge” offered schools matching funds from PEF via a generous $100,000 donation provided by an anonymous donor. Thus, for every dollar a school raised since the school year began until May 31, it received another dollar, up to $10,000. Seven PUSD schools rose to meet the challenge of raising $10,000 and more.

San Rafael raised $16,058, the most of any school, with assistance from its neighborhood association, the West Pasadena Residents Association, and therefore has $26,058 to spend on technology for its students and teachers. The following schools reached the $10,000 goal so will receive and additional $10,000 each from PEF: Willard, Hamilton, Don Benito, Norma Coombs, McKinley, Blair, and Webster.

The remaining 16 participating schools included Sierra Madre; Jefferson; Field; Wilson, Marshall Fundamental; Altadena; Longfellow; Madison; Burbank; Loma Alta; Jackson; Pasadena High School; Franklin; Eliot; Muir; and Washington Middle School. Although these schools didn’t hit the $10,000 mark they will receive matching funds for each dollar they did raise.

Pasadena Educational Foundation is a nonprofit organization that advocates for public education, engages the community, and develops resources to support excellent education for every Pasadena Unified School District student. For more information call 626-396-3600, ext. 88350 or visit www.pasedfoundation.org