SMMEF Receives Major $450,000 Bequest

SMMEF has received a major bequest of just over $450,000 that will support SMMUSD’s Vision for Student Success program. The gift is one of the largest in SMMEF’s 33-year history.

“We are so grateful to receive this large bequest,” said Linda Greenberg, SMMEF Executive Director. “Like all donations to SMMEF, this gift brings us closer to ensuring that the amazing SMMEF-funded staff and programs in our schools, including teacher training, arts education, additional middle and high school classes, and instructional assistants, continue during the next school year.” The bequest was made by long-time Santa Monica community member Judi Lynne and is a powerful expression of support for public education. With this bequest, SMMEF has raised $1,820,463 to fund VSS programs during the 2015-16 school year, out of a total annual goal of $4 million to fully fund these programs. The fundraising deadline is June 30, 2015. The SMMUSD Vision for Student Success (VSS) is a comprehensive set of programs designed to improve student achievement and success. Gifts to SMMEF provide funding for SMMUSD to bring these programs to every school and grade level in the district. VSS programs include instructional assistants, literacy coaches, art instruction for every elementary grade, additional class sections for middle and high schools, professional development for teachers and instructional assistants, and discretionary grants for school-specific enrichment programs. “Gifts like this one, which benefit students and schools district-wide, have to be our focus if we are to achieve equity in our district and give all students opportunities to succeed,” said Greenberg. “We hope this gift will inspire parents, community members and corporate partners to join us in funding these vital programs for every student.”