The La Cañada Flintridge Unified District Board of Education came back to action in its meeting on Tuesday to share some exciting news with the community.
Superintendent Wendy Sinnette started the meeting off with her report with some celebratory news: a $2.3 million donation from the La Cañada Flintridge Educational Foundation to the district.
She also introduced the 13 La Cañada High School seniors named as semifinalists in the National Merit Scholarship contest.
“This is one of the most distinguished honors that students achieve, and I am always really struck by how important it is that their academic standing and performance is so incredible,” said Sinnette.
The superintendent thanked the LCFEF for its hardworking efforts in raising money for the community.
“The foundation not only met its fundraising goal for this year, but it exceeded that goal and is presenting us tonight with a literal big check for $2.3 million,” said Sinnette.
The donation money, according to Sinnette, is dedicated to salaries and newer initiatives within the district like the LCHS 7/8 wellness center.
“The money raised pays the salaries of our elementary drama, art, music and Spanish teachers,” said Sinnette. “It provides funding for ongoing technology needs. It provides funding for our 7/8 counselors and afternoon enrichment for our 7/8 students. The foundation actively supports the salaries and programs associated with the Wellness Center.
“I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for our community’s commitment to excellence, which is evidenced in so many ways, but specifically tonight, by their amazing contributions and to the hard work of the foundation, which brings us this gift,” she added. “So, to all of you to your students, to our community members to the chamber, everybody who contributes.”
Board President Joe Radabaugh went on to thank to the Educational Foundation in his president’s report.
“I wanted to thank our incredible educational foundation and endowment partners for another amazing year of support for our beloved schools,” he said. “Of course, it wouldn’t be possible without all of the support from families and business partners as well. So, thank you to all involved.”
“The foundation’s unwavering efforts over the years has been instrumental in the success of our schools and a key driver in the La Cañada difference,” he added.
First published in the September 28 print issue of the Outlook Valley Sun.
