Simi Valley Education Foundation (SVEF) Blog

April "Skate for Your School" benefiting your school's PTA!

2011-03-24T15:08:00.000-07:00

SVUSD Student Accomplishments for Week Ending March 11th

2011-03-19T12:20:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the Simi Valley High School Forensic Team! They competed in the Tri County Forensic League State Qualifier Speech Tournament on Friday and Saturday, and did very well! Simi High produced a semi finalist in Original Prose and Poetry, and another student placed 7th out of 66 Impromptu competitors, and has qualified to compete in the State Competition! He will compete for the State champion title in April at San Diego State University.

Simi Valley High School Parliamentary Debate team members are the 17th top debate team in the State, and have been invited to compete in the Prestigious California Cup! Only 16 teams are invited to attend this tournament in San Jose. Congratulations!

The Simi Valley High School Mock Trial team has been ranked 6th in Ventura County! This is the highest the team has ever ranked! Congratulations! Your hard work has paid off!

Royal's Mock Trial Team scored in the top half of the competing groups (13th out of 28 teams) and their student won 1st place for prosecution attorney…..a great honor!

Royal High School student will be representing Ventura County in the State Championship for "Poetry Out Loud."

Big success at the SCVA Vocal Jazz Festival on March 8. Royal had two jazz groups sing. Both groups earned superior ratings! Everyone learned a great deal and had a fun time. The adjudicators were VERY complimentary of the groups' performances. "Very artistic and accurate singing." "Mature level of musicianship."

Royal Girls' Basketball were MM co-champs with Agoura this winter.

Royal Boys' Wresting team are the 8 year reigning champions in Marmonte League.

Royal Boys' soccer made it to the quarter finals of CIF.

Royal Girls' soccer made it to the second round of CIF losing to the team that eventually won CIF.

Senior students in the Simi Valley Unified School District have been accepted at the following Universities and Colleges at this time:

University of California Los Angeles
Brigham Young University (4)
University of California Irvine
University of New Mexico
University of California Santa Barbara
University of Hawaii
California State University Northridge (4)
Utah State University
California State University San Diego
Indiana University
California State University Sonoma
Concordia University
California State University Channel Islands
Drexel University
California Lutheran University
Marist College
Northern Arizona University (2)
U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
Arizona State University
California Sate University Cal Poly SLO

Our Community Makes a Difference in the Future of Our Children

2011-03-18T16:17:00.000-07:00

Simi Valley Education Foundation’s Days of Golden Dreams
Raises Money to Support Simi Valley Public Schools

The Simi Valley Education Foundation recently hosted the Days of Golden Dreams -- Celebration of Education annual fundraiser. With a Gold Rush Theme, more than 225 guests enjoyed an evening that included saloon girls and cowboy bartenders, signature themed drinks and a live auction led by Simi Valley’s very own principal - Steve Pietrolungo from Simi High. How appropriate since the evening was about raising much-needed funds to continue to support the programs that the Foundation provides to the schools, teachers and students in Simi Valley public schools.

Chairs Ro Curry and Lulu Means made sure the evening was filled with something for everyone. In addition to the live auction, where everything from walk-on roles to puppies and vacations were bid on, there was also a silent auction and gaming tables. But if that wasn’t enough, guests enjoyed a chance to win a 49er’s Opportunity Drawing, join in a Take-A-Chance Game, and dance into the night with a DJ that played all the hits! “This was our sixth year presenting this fundraiser. Our goal was to keep our guests busy the entire night with one fun event after another, and they were,” said Curry.

This event is devoted to the partnerships of individuals, businesses and public education that all recognize the importance of helping to provide funds for innovative education programs that enrich the educational experiences of our students. “Through our various programs, we are able to provide education learning opportunities that exceed basic standards, spark creativity, and sustain excellence,” said Brian Iverson, president of the Simi Valley Education Foundation.

One of the highlights of the evening was the live auction. Our auctioneer, Steve Pietrolungo, was able to bring a more energetic and down-home feeling to our auction,” said Means. She added, “Bidding during the live auction was fast and fun and they were able to engage the entire room since they knew so many people. ‘It’s for the kids’ was uttered over and over and bidding wars were not uncommon.”

Community support is vital to our success. Thank you to the entire community and the hundreds of donors who support the Simi Valley Education Foundation and help maintain excellence in the public schools of Simi Valley.

It is with sincere gratitude and special thanks to our Days of Golden Dreams Sponsors:

Amanda McPherson Foundation
First Auto Group
Santa Barbara Bank & Trust
SCS Engineers
Simi Valley Hospital
Southern California Edison
Swink’s Simi Valley Towing
TRC Medical
Underwood Employee Benefits & Insurance Services
Union Bank
Urban Lending Solutions
Waste Management

We couldn’t do it without you!

For more information about the Simi Valley Education Foundation, please visit the website at www.svef.org.

You Are Invited To Make a Difference in the Lives of Simi Valley Children

2011-02-12T10:58:00.000-08:00

Days of Golden Dreams Gala – Step back in time!
Saturday, March 12 at Lost Canyons Golf Club

Please join us for a great cause… the students in Simi Valley public schools. Now more than ever our public schools need your support.

This wonderful and fun evening that will feature a 19th century gold rush era theme filled with dinner, gaming, auctions, gold panning, and many more surprises. Tickets are $125 per person and sponsorships are available.

If you can’t join us that evening you can support the Simi Valley Education Foundation and the work we do for the public schools by...

- Purchasing a 49er’s Gold Rush Limited Opportunity $4900 drawing ticket -- only 200 tickets will be sold at $49.00 each.
- Donating to our live or silent auctions.
- Making a general donation.

Learn more about how to participate at www.svef.org.

Thank you for your support of Smimi Valley schools!

SVEF
www.svef.org

Help our SVEF "inmates" post their bail for education...

2010-09-01T16:17:00.001-07:00

Go to http://svef.org/jail/index.html to support our SVEF "inmates" as they
help us support education in Simi Valley!

Tee Up for Kidz... Simi Valley Education Foundation and You!

2010-09-01T16:08:00.000-07:00

You don't need to be a golfer to help...
The Simi Valley Education Foundation's Tee Up for Kidz Golf Tournament is coming up on Friday, September 24th and we really need your help to secure golfers ($175), tee signs ($150) and raffle items. This is a fun event for a great cause. Our schools continue to see drastic budget cuts and more than
ever they need our help.

The Simi Valley Education Foundation is the easiest and most effective way to get your dollars directly into the classrooms of Simi Valley's schools, the schools that teach our kids the skills and knowledge to be successful adults and future business and community leaders.

Please help in supporting our schools by participating and promoting this day of golf and fun. Every little bit helps! No donation is too small...we have a number of different opportunities for you to support the students
here in Simi Valley.

For more information: http://svef.org/event_TeeUpForKidz.shtml

To register online: http://svef.golfreg.com/

We really appreciate your support of this important day!

On behalf of our foundation, board of directors, SVUSD schools, educators and the kids... thank you in advance for participating in this year's Tee Up For Kidz Golf Tournament.

Great ways to get involved...

2010-08-25T11:58:00.001-07:00

Check it out! There are some great ways to get involved with the SVEF...our
annual TEE UP for KIDZ golf tourney is September 24th, our Jail & Bail
"inmates" are seeking help to make bail before they go before the "judge" on
October 6th and our Community E-Waste event is coming up on October 14-16.
Get out there in your community and have some fun while supporting our
schools! www.svef.org <http://www.svef.org/>

Sponsors needed to ‘Tee Up’ for local schools

2010-08-13T15:47:00.000-07:00

The Simi Valley Education Foundation’s Tee Up For Kidz annual charity golf event will be Fri., Sept. 24 at the Lost Canyons Golf Course, Simi Valley.

Sponsorship opportunities are available, ranging from $150 to $5,000. Donations will also be accepted for the raffle and goodie bags.

The cost for golfers to play is $175 individual and $700 foursome. Dinner-only tickets are available for $50.

Funds raised will be used to benefit students in Simi Valley’s public schools.

For more information, registration or sponsor information, visit http://svef.golfreg.com, call (877) SIMI-KID (746-4543) or email info@svef.org.

2010 Tournament Planned - Friday, September 24th

2010-08-09T14:46:00.000-07:00

Become a Sponsor, Donate a Raffle Prize, Tell a Friend...Come and Play!!!

Your participation helps support the Simi Valley Education Foundation’s mission to improve education and fund innovative programs that will enrich our students’ learning experience. Click the links below for more information:

2010 Tee Up For Kidz on the Web

2010 Tee Up For Kidz Flyer

Simi Valley Education Foundation selects next board

2010-07-30T11:24:00.001-07:00

PASSING THE GAVEL—Past President Cathy Carlson, right, hands over the reins of the Simi Valley Education Foundation to the organization’s new president, Brian Iverson. The Simi Valley Education Foundation has named its new 2010-11 board of directors.

The executive board members are president, Brian Iverson; president-elect, Karen Stewart; vice president, Carol Richards; treasurer, Jill Haney; secretary, Lulu Means; and past president, Cathy Carlson.

New to the board are David Gersh and Mike James.

Current board members are Glen Becerra, Laura Berger, Ro Curry, Michelle Foster, Paul Goodnough, Kim Holden, Bob LaBelle, Mike Lewis, Allan C. Mann, Leigh Nixon, Kate O’Brien, Dr. Ron Resnick, Jim Riley, Michelle Scharf, Dr. Kathryn Scroggin, Kristin Tignac, Kevin Underwood, Mark Upson and Leticia Wilson.
The foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising funds to enhance the instructional education of students in the Simi Valley Unified School District.

The foundation provides enhancement grants to educators and scholarships to students, and matches fundraising dollars at the secondary schools.

The money for these programs are raised through the annual Celebration of Education Gala, Tee Up for Kidz Golf Tournament, ewaste recycling days and the Affinity Partners program.

A new fundraising activity this year, Jail & Bail, is planned for Oct. 6.

For more information, visit the website www.svef.org, e-mail info@svef.org or call (877) SIMIKID (746-4543).

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Simi-Valley-Education-Foundation/85774499272

Simi Valley Students Receive $11,000 in scholarships and endowment scholarships from Simi Valley Education Foundation

2010-06-15T16:08:00.001-07:00

Each year, the Simi Valley Education Foundation grants five deserving students $1,000 scholarships so that they can attend college, technical or vocational schools. One student is chosen from each of the four local high schools -- Apollo High School, Royal High School, Santa Susana School High and Simi High School, and one from Moorpark Community College.

In addition, the Simi Valley Educational Foundation awards three two-year community college scholarships ($1,000 per year) to students enrolling in a local community college each fall. This Endowment Program was established to honor the wishes of the original donor to provide community college scholarships for students who cannot afford to fund their own education.

These 2-year scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate a strong desire to succeed by obtaining a college education. These scholarships are intended to offer an opportunity or create a turning point in a youngperson's life that inspires them to become an asset to our community.

The Simi Valley Education Foundation is committed to supporting the continuing education and success of our students. By providing financial support, the Foundation ensures that our students are able to pursue their

goals and dreams.

The 2010 Scholarship and Endowment Scholarship Recipients are:

2010 Scholarship Recipients

Matthew Cianciullo -Apollo HS
Kelly Ross-Royal HS
Kevin Callaway -Santa Susana HS
Alisa Samakapiruk-Simi HS
Vaibhav Thotapalli- Moorpark College

2010 Endowment Recipients

Tiffany Hendrix-Apollo HS
Breana Rivas-Apollo HS
Destinee La Fountain-Royal HS

2009 2nd Year Endowment Recipients

Victoria Robles -Moorpark College
Nick Romeo - Moorpark College
Laura Zepeda - Moorpark College

The Simi Valley Education Foundation (SVEF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing additional resources to students in Simi Valley's public schools. Our yearly fundraising programs provide money for our

scholarships and endowment program, as well as grants for teachers and schools. For additional information about programs and events, please visit the website at: http://www.svef.org/, call 877.SIMI-KID.

http://www.vcstar.com/news/2010/jun/14/simi-valley-students-receive-11000-in-scholarships/?yournews=1

Community Partnership Dishes Up Great Success for Local Schools

2010-06-15T15:45:00.001-07:00

With public schools having to do more with less money from the state, it’s nice to see that a local business in Simi Valley stepped up to partner with and help provide cash-strapped PTAs with a little extra money this year.

Simi Valley Education Foundation and Domino’s Pizza are proud to announce the completion of a new unique partnership that is designed to bring more money to Simi Valley public schools.

Domino’s Pizza – with two locations in Simi Valley – created a Pizza Night Program. Unlike traditional pizza nights, each store offered discounted prices weekly to a participating school – one on the east side and one on the west side of Simi. In addition, for every order, Domino's donated a portion back to each of the schools.

While this is a new program – we are happy to announce that this joint venture resulted in more than $2600 going back to the schools that participated. We expect more schools this coming year to be involved with even more money going to our local students.

The Simi Valley Education Foundation has created an Affinity Partners Program with businesses, like Domino’s Pizza, who support the work the Simi Valley Education Foundation does in the community.

This program was created to provide another vehicle for local businesses to partner with the Simi Valley Education Foundation to support the important work we do for the local public schools.

For more information on the Simi Valley Education Foundation, visit the website at www.svef.org or call 877-SIMI-KID.

For complete article go to http://bit.ly/c1ka2k

The Highlighter -- Simi Valley Education Foundation's Quarterly Newsletter

2010-06-11T10:58:00.001-07:00

What an evening...

2010-03-13T18:17:00.001-08:00

A dinner for 10 w/ Tommy Lasorda, lunch for 4 w/ Bill Walton, a trip to NY or to Ireland. Check it out http://bit.ly/bQ2b5q

Join us on March 20th...

Sponsorships Opportunities Available for this year's Celebration of Education - Bonsai Bash

2010-01-22T15:52:00.001-08:00

<http://www.svef.org/sponsorship.aspx>

SVEF's Bonsai Bash on March 20, 2010 - Get Your Tickets Today!

2010-01-18T11:18:00.001-08:00

<https://www.svef.org/register.aspx?EventID=6>

2010 SVEF Celebration of Education "Bonsai Bash - A Far East Explosion!" For info, sponsors & tickets http://bit.ly/4IBdFY

2010-01-17T08:27:00.001-08:00

---------
Kevin Underwood
(805) 577-0264
(805) 435-1568 fax
kunderwood@mybenefitsagent.com

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Don't miss it! We are going to have some awesome items at this year's SVEF gala auction. Check it out at www.svef.org

2010-01-16T13:52:00.001-08:00

---------
Kevin Underwood
(805) 577-0264
(805) 435-1568 fax
kunderwood@mybenefitsagent.com

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Simi Valley Education Foundation (SVEF): Meet the 2009-10 Lew Roth award recipients http://bit.ly/6Aaxin

2010-01-16T00:54:00.001-08:00

---------
Kevin Underwood
(805) 577-0264
(805) 435-1568 fax
kunderwood@mybenefitsagent.com

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

A Wish List from A to Z for Donating to the Simi Valley Education Foundation's Bonsai Bash Auction & Gala

2010-01-16T00:20:00.001-08:00

A Wish List from A to Z for Donating to the Simi Valley Education Foundation's Bonsai Bash Auction & Gala

Wow, this year's SVEF Bonsai Bash Auction & Gala <http://www.svef.org/gala2.shtml> is shaping up to be another fun, exciting and rewarding night! However, as always it will take the generosity and creativity of friends and family to make this event a great success. We are actively seeking donations for this year's event and have created the following A to Z wish list of donation ideas in hopes that it will help everyone think of the possibilities that are out there.

The SVEF Bonsai Bash Auction & Gala <http://www.svef.org/gala2.shtml> is on March 20th, 2010 Gala and the proceeds from this event benefit the current and future students of Simi Valley's Public Schools through classroom, campus and technology improvements and scholarships.

* Do you know of a business with excess inventory? Do you, your family or friends have new, unused items taking up valuable storage space? We can help resolve that problem!
* Since our guests will come from all parts of Southern California, gift certificates from different areas (especially resorts) will be greatly appreciated.
* The deadline for the auction catalog is March 1, 2010; to be included in the catalog, descriptions are needed by that date.
* Donations are tax-deductible according to IRS regulations; receipts will be provided. Simi Valley Education Foundation's non-profit tax identification number is 77-0299495.
* Please share this with your family, friends, and co-workers.

A Automobile anything, antiques, autographed items, aquarium passes, art, Angels tickets, appliances
B Broadway tickets, bird bath, Bed Bath & Beyond, bath towels, basket goodies
C Cash, cabins, computers, crystal, chandelier, carpeting, cruises, cameras, camping, carpeting
D Diamonds, Decor Store, Disneyland, drapery, Dodger items/tickets, dishes, dog house
E Ethan Allen, electronics, edibles, earrings, eye care, equestrian items, exercise equipment
F Fountain, furniture, fishing, flat screen TV or monitor, football, facials, Fitz & Floyd, FAX machine
G Garden furniture, golf, gourmet items, gift cards, granite, gold, gym memberships/equipment
H Home Depot, HDTV, Hawaii, hotels, hockey, Hollywood Bowl, home office, harbor cruises, hammocks
I Ice maker, imported goodies, Ipods, ice skating, ice cream, inn stays, Irish crystal, interior design
J Jewelry, juicers, jets (to anywhere), Jamba Juice, jams, juke box, jet skis, jelly-bellies, jigsaw puzzles
K Kitchen tools/accents/small appliances, Knotts Berry Farm, karaoke, Kings tickets, kitten
L Lamp, linens, Lladro, laptop, Lakers tickets, limos, Lennox, landscaping, Lake Powell, Le Creuset
M Mirror, mattress, marble, motorcycle gear, music (CD's or concert tickets), Magic Mountain, Mammoth
N NASCAR, night-on-the-town items/entertainment, nursery, nails, Nativity scenes, Nambe, needlepoint
O Oriental rug, outlet gift cards, opera, orthodontics, outdoors, Oaks Mall certificates, office supplies
P Ping pong table, Pottery Barn, Pier One, paint, puppy, Palm Springs, power tools, poker, plants
Q Quilts/quilted wall hangings, quartz, Quicken, queen size bedding, Quebec
R Restoration hardware, rings, race cars, restaurants, rosaries, rock-n-roll, racketball
S Silverware, Sur Le Table, Sperling Nursery, sporting goods, Spode, skateboards, Starbucks, signed scripts
T Timeshares, Trader Joe's, TJ Maxx, tutoring, tv's, theater tickets, tableware, tools, tennis, Tahiti, travel gear
U Universal Studios, USC or UCLA tickets, utensils, Utah ski trips, user-friendly software
V Vegas, vases, video cameras, Val Surf, vacation packages, vacuums, volleyball, veterinary services
W Williams Sonoma, Whole Foods, Wii, weekend getaway-resorts, wine, watches, Waterford, wine glasses
X Xerox, X-box and games, xylophone (or other musical instrument)
Y Yard items, yachting, yoga, Yellowstone, Yankee Candles, yogurt, Yosemite, yuletide items, yucca plants
Z Zoo weekend package, zinfandel, zoom lens, zircon

If you would like to find out about sponsorship opportunities, tickets to the event or simply want to learn more go to www.svef.org <http://www.svef.org/> or feel free to contact me directly. Thank you in advance for your support!

---------
Kevin Underwood
(805) 577-0264
(805) 435-1568 fax
kunderwood@mybenefitsagent.com

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Simi Valley Education Foundation: There are lots of great ways to stay connected w/ the SVEF

2009-09-07T12:06:00.000-07:00

There are lots of great ways to stay connected with the Simi Valley Education Foundation (SVEF). You can visit our website or our blog, you can join us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter...or do all four!

There are a lot of exciting things going on at the Simi Valley Education Foundation. If you and/or your business have a passion for supporting Simi Valley's students and schools, the SVEF is a great place to get involved.

You can also reach us at info@svef.org or by calling 877-Simi-Kids (877-746-4543).

Do you want to get involved in our community?

2009-09-07T11:35:00.000-07:00

The SVEF is a great place to start. We are looking for individuals and business who share a passion for supporting Simi Valley's schools and students. Visit us online at www.svef.org to learn how to get involved.

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Sponsors, Golfers and Donations are needed for the SVEF's Tee Up For Kidz Golf Tournament...

2009-09-06T11:51:00.001-07:00

Sponsors, Golfers and Donations are needed for the SVEF's Tee Up For Kidz Golf Tournament on Friday, September 25th at Lost Canyons Golf Club in Simi Valley, CA.

Learn more at http://bit.ly/njPbm
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Simi Valley Education Foundation Enhancement Grant Applications Now Available

2009-09-06T11:42:00.001-07:00

Simi Valley Education Foundation Enhancement Grant Applications Now Available http://bit.ly/16uYaq
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Alcoa Fastening Systems Awards $20,000 Grant To Support Simi Valley Education Foundation Enhancement Grant Program

2009-08-29T11:19:00.000-07:00

Simi Valley Education Foundation (SVEF) announced today the award of a $20,000 grant from Alcoa Fastening Systems, located in Simi Valley. This generous donation is a step forward in filling the gap between what public schools can afford and what educators seek to achieve and will further support and enhance the educational process within the Simi Valley public school system. http://bit.ly/sGwL6

New leadership at helm of SVEF

2009-08-29T11:13:00.000-07:00

Board named for 2009-2010

NEXT LEADER—Outgoing board president Kevin Underwood receives a special gavel as a thank-you from 2009-2010 Simi Valley Education Foundation Board President Cathy Carlson.

The Simi Valley Education Foundation has named its 20092010 Board of Directors. The executive board members are Cathy Carlson, president; Carol Richards, president elect; Karen Stewart, vice president; Jill Haney, treasurer; Ro Curry, secretary, and Kevin Underwood, past president.

The board members are Glen Becerra, Laura Berger, Rob Collins, Michelle Foster, Paul Goodnough , Kim Holden, Brian Iverson , Bill Klepper, Bob LaBelle, Mike Lewis, Eric Lundstrom, Allan Mann, Lulu Means, Leigh Nixon, Kate O'Brien, Dr. Ron Resnick, Jim Riley, Michelle Scharf, Dr. Kathryn Scroggin, Kristin Tignac, Mark Upson, Dan White and Leticia Wilson.

The foundation is a nonprofit organization that raises funds to support students in the Simi Valley Unified School District.

The foundation provides enhancement grants to educators and scholarships to students and matches fundraising dollars at the secondary schools.

The monies for these programs are raised through the annual Celebration of Education Gala, Tee Up for Kidz Golf Tournament, e-waste recycling days and the Affinity Partners program with local businesses.

For more information, call (877) SIMI-KID or visit www .svef.org or send an e-mail to info@svef.org.

https://www.simivalleyacorn.com/news/2009-07-24/schools/040.html

Tee Up for Kidz Annual Golf Tournament on Friday, September 25, 2009

2009-08-26T10:48:00.001-07:00

Simi Valley Education Foundation host their Tee Up For Kidz Annual Golf Tournament on Friday, September 25, 2009 at Lost Canyons Golf Course. Jim Riley and Kristin Tignac along with their committee and numerous volunteers are preparing a fun and excite day for the community of Simi Valley. The format is a four-person modified scramble, and awards will be given for the low gross team, longest drive, closest to the pin, and more. Individuals, teams and sponsors are welcome!

Schedule

8:30 AM: Registration

10:00 AM: Putting Contest

11:00 AM: Shotgun start

4:00 PM: Dinner and Award

Come on out and join the fun! For more information or to register to participate in this great day, visit http://www.svef.org/event_TeeUpForKidz.shtml.

Education is Everybody's Business!

Tropical Night Under the Stars to Benefit Simi Valley Education Foundation

2009-06-25T09:47:00.001-07:00

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

The Simi Valley Education Foundation has created an Affinity Partners Program with local businesses who believe in and support the work the Simi Valley Education Foundation does for the local public schools. A percentage of the monies raised by these companies are donated back to the Simi Valley Education Foundation.

We are proud to announce a new partnership with Zumega Music. On August 8th at Lost Canyons Golf Club, from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., Zumega Music will present Tropical Night Under the Stars -- an evening of live Jazz, Reggae, Soca, and Steel Drum music with various artists performing. The evening also includes wine tasting and delicious food. In addition, there will be a raffle prize of a big screen television.

Tickets are $60 per person ($50 per person if purchased before July 1st.) and group discounts are available. Proceeds from this evening will be donated to the Simi Valley Education Foundation.

To purchase tickets for this fun evening, please visit the Zumega Music website at www.zumegamusic.com/event or email zumegaevents@gmail.com.

Through the Affinity Program, our partners offer a variety of services to the community and by utilizing their services or participating in their programs; our Foundation receives additional financial resources to support our schools and teachers.

The Simi Valley Education Foundation seeks to strengthen our public schools and the education they provide for our children by providing additional resources to benefit students in Simi Valley's public schools. For more information about our events and programs please visit our website at www.svef.org or email info@svef.org.

http://www.venturacountystar.com/news/2009/jun/24/tropical-night-under-the-stars-to-benefit-simi/

Apollo High grads complete 'long journey' : Simi Valley : Ventura County Star

2009-06-24T10:14:00.000-07:00

Apollo High grads complete 'long journey' : Simi Valley : Ventura County Star

Simi Valley Education Foundation Awards $11,000 in Scholarships and Endowments

2009-06-23T09:56:00.000-07:00

Simi Valley Students Receive $11,000 In Scholarships and Endowment Scholarships From The Simi Valley Education Foundation

Monday, June 22, 2009

Each year, the Simi Valley Education Foundation grants five deserving students $1,000 scholarships so that they can attend college, technical or vocational schools. One student is chosen from each of the four local high schools -- Apollo High School, Royal High School, Santa Susana School High and Simi High School, and one from Moorpark Community College.

In addition, the Simi Valley Educational Foundation awards three two-year community college scholarships ($1,000 per year) to students enrolling in a local community college each fall.

Read more: http://www.venturacountystar.com/news/2009/jun/22/simi-valley-education-foundation-awards-11000-in/

2009 E-Waste Recycling Days Successful for SVEF & Simi Valley Community

2009-06-17T08:20:00.001-07:00

The e-waste recycling days were a new venture for the Simi Valley Education Foundation (SVEF) this year, but they turned out to be an incredible way to connect with our community while raising much needed money for our schools. Co-Chairs, Karen Stewart & Jill Haney did an incredible job of organizing volunteers and coordinating efforts with our partners. The SVEF hosted two e-waste events during the 2008-09 school year, one in the Fall and then another this past Spring. Along with our recycling partner, e-Green and our many community partners we were able to help Simi Valley residence remove more than 149,000 pounds of e-waste from their homes and offices this year. The goal is to host another e-waste recycling event in the fall, so stay tuned.

Royal High School Senior Awards Night - SVEF Honored

2009-06-16T15:24:00.001-07:00

I had the honor, along with Leigh Nixon, of presenting two scholarships to two deserving seniors at last night's Royal High School Senior Awards Night. The recipients were both deserving and appreciative and it was exciting to be part of a great evening.

In addition to recognizing the accomplishments of many graduating seniors (2009 is an incredible class!), Royal High School utilizes this night each year to honor what they call their Highlander "R" Award recipients. This award is given to those who have provided distinguished service to the students, staff and community of Royal high School.

Royal's principal, Dan Houghton stood at the podium acknowledging some of the past recipients and then continued to explain that one of this year's recipients is not go to an individual, but an organization. He went on to very eloquently explain that over the years, this organization has had dedicated volunteers working countless hours to raise thousands of dollars in monetary and equipment donations that have benefited all public education in Simi Valley.

Mr. Houghton went on to talk about the organizations programs and events, and the positive impact on the students and teachers of Simi Valley. He announced that this organization, in just the past 3 years, has donated approximately $140,000 to Royal High School and that this money has gone into the classrooms to directly benefit our students. He then stated that it was his pleasure and honor to award the Highlander "R" Award to the SIMI VALLEY EDUCATION FOUNDATION.

This was exciting and a complete surprise. I went up to accept the award and then a few presenters later, went back up to honor our two deserving scholarship recipients.

The Simi Valley Education Foundation with the help of our community and business partners will hand out a total of 8 scholarships throughout the district this year.

Push is on for a ‘common’ education standard for US schoolchildren | csmonitor.com

2009-06-14T12:09:00.000-07:00

By Dave Cook
Staff writer/ June 10, 2009 edition

Washington

Education Secretary Arne Duncan threw his weight Wednesday behind a “common” education standard for all of America’s schoolchildren, saying the current state-by-state system has produced uneven results in which some students “are totally, inadequately prepared to go into a competitive university, let alone graduate.”

Mr. Duncan, who has been on a cross-country “listening tour” in preparation for submitting revisions for the No Child Left Behind Act, says he’s encountered support for the idea of a national standard. “Teachers have been really positive on this idea of common standards,” he said at a Monitor-sponsored breakfast for reporters. “That has played much better with teachers than I thought it would.”

The secretary acknowledged, though, that what he calls “common higher standards, internationally benchmarked” would face hurdles and involve political pain. States and local governments are protective of their prerogative to set educational standards, and what Duncan is suggesting would be a huge break with tradition.

Nation needs major reforms in education - The Oakland Press Opinion: The best place for news in and around Oakland County

2009-06-14T12:04:00.000-07:00

By WALTER WILLIAMS

The Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) is an international comparison of 15-year-olds conducted by The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) that measures applied learning and problemsolving ability. In 2006, U.S. students ranked 25th of 30 advanced nations in math and 24th in science. McKinsey & Company, in releasing its report “The Economic Impact of the Achievement Gap in America’s Schools” (April 2009) said, “Several other facts paint a worrisome picture. First, the longer American children are in school, the worse they perform compared to their international peers. In recent cross-country comparisons of fourth-grade reading, math, and science, U.S. students scored in the top quarter or top half of advanced nations. By age 15, these rankings drop to the bottom half. In other words, American students are farthest behind just as they are about to enter higher education or the workforce.”

Schwarzenegger's push for digital textbooks | csmonitor.com

2009-06-13T13:42:00.000-07:00

The California governor wants to save money by dumping printed schoolbooks for online, open-source texts. But is it feasible?

By Michael B. Farrell/The Christian Science Monitor

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger is taking a page from high school science books in an effort to shrink California's $24 billion budget gap. In fact, he wants to take the entire book – and do away with it. By next fall, Governor Schwarzenegger intends to make free, open-source digital textbooks available for high school math and science classes throughout California, a move that he says will help reduce the more than $350 million the state spends annually on educational materials. Some critics doubt the idea will result in any immediate cost savings – and question a plan that might require investment in technology and teacher training at a time when schools face deep budget cuts. But if California embraces open-source materials, which are now increasingly used on college campuses, a nationwide debate over traditional textbooks is bound to follow.

Data-Driven Schools See Rising Scores - WSJ.com

2009-06-13T13:40:00.000-07:00

By John Hechinger/Wall Street Journal

Last fall, high-school senior Duane Wilson started getting D's on assignments in his Advanced Placement history, psychology and literature classes. Like a smoke detector sensing fire, a school computer sounded an alarm. The Edline system used by the Montgomery County, Md., Public Schools emailed each poor grade to his mother as soon as teachers logged it in. Coretta Brunton, Duane's mother, sat her son down for a stern talk. Duane hit the books and began earning B's. He is headed to Atlanta's Morehouse College in the fall. If it hadn't been for the tracking system, says the 17-year-old, "I might have failed and I wouldn't be going to college next year."

Valley View Middle School Performs Musical Tribute to the Troops : Simi Valley : Ventura County Star

2009-06-13T10:31:00.000-07:00

Valley View Middle School Performs Musical Tribute to the Troops : Simi Valley : Ventura County Star

Summer Bowling to Raise Money for Local Schools : Simi Valley : Ventura County Star

2009-06-13T10:28:00.000-07:00

Summer Bowling to Raise Money for Local Schools : Simi Valley : Ventura County Star

Simi Valley Education Foundation Partners with harley's Simi Bowl

Simi Valley Education Foundation and harley's SIMI BOWL are proud to announce a unique partnership that is designed to bring families and friends together to enjoy the sport of bowling while raising money for the bowlers' designated Simi Valley public schools.

Now more than ever our public schools could use a little extra money!

Bowlers who register for the Bowl for Your School program at harley's will automatically be enrolled in harley's Bowler Club. With that program bowlers will receive one FREE game of bowling for every eight games paid of open bowl during each month. When bowlers play during the summer break, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., 25% of the total purchase will be donated back to their designated school!

This is an opportunity to spend time with family and friends in a great environment and support your local school.

Join the Bowl for Your school program today and download the coupon for One Free Game and more information about this exciting program at the Simi Valley Education Foundation website --- http://www.svef.org/.

Then bring the coupon to harley's SIMI BOWL, located at 480 E. Los Angeles Avenue and let the Summer Break and Bowl for Your School program begin!

SVEF & harley's SIMI Bowl Team Up for "Bowl for Your School"

2009-06-10T16:51:00.001-07:00

Bowl for Your School is a partnership between the Simi Valley Education Foundation and harley's SIMI BOWL and is designed to bring families and friends together to enjoy the sport of bowling while raising money for the bowler's designated Simi Valley public school.harley's is offering all Simi Valley students a FREE game each and every day...ALL SUMMER LONG.

In addition, 25% of your total bowling purchase for you and your family will be donated right back to the Simi Valley school of your choice. This offer is valid Monday-Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Keep an eye out as these fliers are coming home with all Simi Valley students or go to www.svef.org to print a copy of the flier and take it with you to harley's SIMI BOWL to sign up today!Get out there and BOWL!

Teachers start hunger strike to protest layoffs - Los Angeles Times

2009-05-29T15:19:00.000-07:00

By Ruben Vives
May 28, 2009

At least nine teachers and two activists take part in the strike, demanding that the district put forth a new budget that doesn't include layoffs or class-size increases.

A group of teachers and community activists started a hunger strike Wednesday in protest of the Los Angeles Unified School District's plan to lay off thousands of teachers.

At least nine teachers and two activists are participating in the action, said Sean Leys, a Lincoln High School teacher.

Leys says the group is demanding a new budget that will not include layoffs or class-size increases. It also wants the district to use federal stimulus money to avoid budget cuts."

http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-hunger-strike28-2009may28,0,2354830.story

Rewarding our top students

2009-05-29T09:42:00.000-07:00

May 29, 2009
Simi Valley Acorn

Rewarding our top students Times may be tough, but the weak economy hasn't dampened our local generosity. The commitment to education, achievement and community service remains strong.

This is the time of year when nonprofit organizations and businesses award thousands of dollars to graduating high school seniors to help pay for their future education. With the cost of college rising and the impecunious state turning a deaf ear toward the financial needs of freshmen, this comes as welcome news indeed.

From large organizations such as Rotary Club, the Simi Valley Elks and Kiwanis, Simi Valley Education Foundation and the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation, to the smaller ones like the American Association of University Women, altruistic groups are reaching into their pockets to help our students chase their dreams.

Read the entire article

Study urges state to invest more in early childhood education programs - Pasadena Star-News

2009-05-28T15:58:00.000-07:00

Study urges state to invest more in early childhood education programsBy Canan Tasci/Pasadena Star News

The final report in the RAND Corporation's series on California's preschool system confirms that early childhood education is a critical part of K-12 reform. The study released today by the nonprofit research organization also shows how California can invest in a high-quality early learning system to help close the state's achievement gap. "Closing California's achievement gap begins with ensuring all of our children start kindergarten well prepared to learn," State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell said. "High-quality preschool provides the foundation for children to succeed in school and in our increasingly competitive global economy." Earlier findings from the report suggest that improving and expanding preschool programs can better prepare children for school and help close the academic achievement gap faced by many children by the second and third grades - primarily black and Latino children, as well as those from socioeconomically-disadvantaged families.

The People Have Spoken - California Progress Report

2009-05-28T15:48:00.000-07:00

The People Have Spoken - California Progress Report

Strapped schools are cutting down to the bone

2009-05-27T07:28:00.000-07:00

Strapped schools are cutting down to the bone

U.S. education secretary says California students in peril

2009-05-27T07:23:00.000-07:00

Speaking to mayors, trustees and superintendents in San Francisco, Arne Duncan challenges state lawmakers to embrace difficult reforms. 'Honestly, California has lost its way,' he says.

http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-duncan23-2009may23,0,5521042.story

Royal High School's NEW Equestrian Club is having a fundraiser at Famous Dave's on Thursday, May 21st

2009-05-19T16:56:00.000-07:00

In 2009-10, Royal High School will have its very own Equestrian Club. The Equestrian Club will be competing against high schools throughout the greater Los Angeles area.

As a new club, they are having a fundraiser this Thursday at Famous Dave's to raise money to help offset some of the expenses associated with transporting horses, entry fees, uniforms, etc, etc.

So, join the RHS Equestrian Club on Thursday May 21st at Famous Dave's in Simi Valley!

Mark your calendars, click the link to print the flyer and take it with you to Famous Dave's on Thursday, May 21st. Dine-in or take it to go!

Click here to download your flier: http://bit.ly/MbsGb

Thank you for your support,
Royal High School Equestrian Club

Do you have a school-related event you want to share?

2009-05-19T13:18:00.000-07:00

Hey Simi Valley!

Do you have a school-related event that you would like to share with the community. Let us help!

Send your event information to info@svef.org and we will share your school-related event with the community of Simi Valley.

If you would like to keep up with what's going on at the Simi Valley Education Foundation, you can...follow us at SVEF Blog, Facebook, Twitter.

Thanks,

Simi Valley Education Foundation
"Education is Everyone's Business"

SVEF Affinity Partner: Postal Annex (Wood Ranch)

2009-05-18T21:43:00.000-07:00

Postal Annex donates 10% when you mention the SVEF at your time of visit. http://bit.ly/4trze

Dine at the Wood Ranch Bistro on Sundays and 20% of your food purchase is donated back to the SVEF

2009-05-15T18:22:00.001-07:00

Are you looking for a place to take the family for dinner this Sunday? The Wood Ranch Bistro is an Affinity Partners and they offer a great menu and some incredible music throughout the week. Check them out at http://www.woodranchbistro.com. Tell Kurt, Erik and the Gang that the SVEF sent you!

To learn more about all of our Affinity Partners, our events and our programs visit us at www.svef.org.

Are you gathering up all of your e-waste to drop off?

2009-05-14T10:39:00.000-07:00

Remember, on Saturday from 9-3 the SVEF will take all that e-waste off your hands...for FREE! Learn more about this FREE community service at http://www.svef.org/egreen.shtml, or visit our events page on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=81341000881.

CVOS Inc. Donates 5% Back to the Simi Valley Education Foundation

2009-05-11T11:31:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for ways to cut costs without sacrificing service and quality? If so, you need to meet the folks at CVOS here in Simi Valley.

CVOS provides a Total Printer solution with quality you can rely on and service you can depend on.

When residents and businesses sign up through the SVEF Affinity Partner program, CVOS will donate 5% right back to the Simi Valley Education Foundation.

Savings: With high quality toner products and cost efficient solutions, CVOS clients save 20 - 30 percent, or more, each year on laser toner and inkjets. Not only can CVOS help uncover the saving opportunities, but their trained team can manage the system transition process to ensure compliance across all departments.

Whether your business calls for 1, 10 or 10,000 printers; whether your business operates locally, nationally or internationally...CVOS provides the best in quality printer and toner products and business solutions. From compatible printers, toner cartridges to OEM toner, CVOS's range of offerings can impact your bottom line.

• Compatible and OEM Products
• Fleet Management Tools
• Multilevel Software Solutions
• Recertified Printers
• Technical and Customer Support

CVOS's mission is to provide world class toner programs by continually monitoring service and integrating the latest technologies. CVOS offers premium quality toner products, unparalleled distribution methods, competitive pricing, superior customer service and additional savings opportunities.

By working together, CVOS can find a solution that allows you to take advantage of value-added programs, reduce help desk calls and limit time spent on printer/toner calls and training classes.

Learn more about how you can benefit yourself, your business and the Simi Education Foundation by working with CVOS and all of our Affinity Partners at http://www.svef.org/affinity.shtml.

SVEF at the Simi Valley Street Fair

2009-05-10T18:15:00.001-07:00

May 10, 2009

An estimated 18,000 people attended the Simi Valley Street Fair yesterday. Located in the middle of the action was the Simi Valley Education Foundation's booth.

We attracted many visitors with our free pencils and pins that we were handing out to people passing by. The E-Waste Event poster also drew a lot of attention and interest. Many people commented about their old computers and printers stacking up in their garages and how they would be at the E-Waste Event next Saturday to dispose of them. We were joined in our booth by Zumega Music who were promoting their upcoming "Tropical Night Under The Stars" event at Lost Canyon Golf Club. They also drew quite a bit of attention and positive comments. In the afternoon, a steel drum player with Zumega Music took the entertainment stage at the Street Fair and gave the crowd a sample of what we would see at their "Tropical Night" event.

As the Street Fair came to a close, I felt that we had introduced ourselves to and educated a new part of the community as to what the Simi Valley Education Foundation is all about. I believe that the Street Fair was an absolute success and I look forward to being involved with it again next year. Thank you to those of you who came out and helped with the booth and those who stopped by to show your support.

Brian Iverson

Jamba Juices joins the SVEF at e-Waste event on May16th

2009-05-07T16:02:00.001-07:00

Jamba Juice will be on site during the SVEF's e-Waste Recycling Day on May 16th. Come on out, drop off your e-Waste and pick up a couple smoothies!

Jamba Juice has joined forces with CVOS, Elite Bankcard, Postal Annex and the Wood Ranch Bistro through our Affinity Partner Program to help the SVEF support Simi Valley schools. Visit www.svef.org to learn how you can support these local businesses and our schools.

Tropical Night Under the Stars on August 8, 2009 (benefiting the Simi Valley Education Foundation)

2009-05-05T11:04:00.001-07:00

Tropical Night Under the Stars benefiting the Simi Valley Education Foundation

On August 8, 2009, Zumega Music (www.zumegamusic.com) will be hosting an evening filled with music from various artists (Jazz, Reggae, Soca & Steel Drums), delicious food, wine tasting and much more.

This is a Zumega Music (www.zumegamusic.com) hosted event benefiting the Simi Valley Education Foundation (www.svef.com).

What: Tropical Night Under the Stars presented by Zumega Music (benefiting the Simi Valley Education Foundation)
Where: Lost Canyons Golf Club, Simi Valley, CA
Date: Saturday, August 8, 2009
Time: 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Tickets: $50/each or $450/10 tickets ($60/each or $540/10 tickets after July 1, 2009)
Event Attire: Island Style

Tickets are available online at www.zumegamusic.com.

If you have questions or need additional information please contact us at info@svef.org or visit us on the web at www.svef.org.
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

SVEF's Jamba Monday!

2009-05-04T10:52:00.001-07:00

Today is Jamba Monday!

On Mondays if you visit one of the three Simi Valley Jamba Juice stores and tell them that you are a SVEF Supporter, they will donate 20% of your total purchase to the Simi Valley Education Foundation. Please let your friends, family and co-workers know about Jamba Mondays.

Jamba Monday flier: http://svef.org/Images/Jamba%20Monday%20Flyer.pdf

Thank you for your continued support!

Kevin Underwood

President, SVEF

www.svef.org

Recycling day for electronics is free

2009-05-04T10:31:00.000-07:00

Ventura County Star
Sunday, May 3, 2009

Simi Valley Education Foundation will hold a free E-Waste Recycling Day for items such as computers, laptops, monitors, televisions, scanners, cell phones, printers, fax machines, answering machines and keyboards.

The event will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 16 at the Simi Valley Unified School District parking lot at 875 Cochran St.

To read the complete article, go to http://www.venturacountystar.com/news/2009/may/03/nbelectronicrecycling03/

SVEF hosts FREE e-Waste Recycling Day on May 16, 2009

2009-05-04T10:20:00.000-07:00

The Simi Valley Education Foundation held its first-ever e-Waste Recycling Day last October, for items such as computers, laptops, monitors, televisions, scanners, cell phones, printers, fax machines, answering machines and keyboards.

On May 16, 2009...we are doing it again!

Don't call it junk -- it's e-waste. In its prime, perhaps only a year or two ago, it was the largest monitor, the fastest computer, the "newest and latest” TV.

Today, it's e-waste: outdated, unwanted electronic equipment, plucked from closets, spare bedrooms and garages and now was recycled at this community-wide recycling day.

More than 106,000 pounds of e-waste was collected, sorted and recycled.

This Spring we are looking to do it again...this time BIGGER! And what's more -- all proceeds went directly to our public schools!

To learn more about our FREE e-Waste Recycling Day visit: http://www.svef.org/egreen.shtml

Simi Valley Education Foundation’s New Partners

2009-05-04T10:17:00.000-07:00

Posted by Mike Chandler on 04 21st, 2009

I know young teachers, not only in Simi Valley, but in other districts who are extremely talented, extremely dedicated, and extremely at risk of losing their jobs due to the state budget crisis. Funding for education in general, not only for teachers’ salaries, faces cut backs that you’re sure to feel if your children are enrolled in public schools.

The Simi Valley Education Foundation’s history goes back over 20 years, having been instrumental in thousands of dollars in both monetary and school equipment donations. I can recall getting involved in the business community years ago and seeing other business owners making their involvement in supporting the foundation a primary objective. As the May deadline for anticipated layoff decisions approaches, I’m not only getting more concerned about the fate of our schools, but it’s becoming increasingly obvious to me that the Simi Valley Education Foundation will become an even greater source of relief to our local school system.

Read the full article at http://www.votesimivalley.com/2009/04/simi-education-foundations-new-partners/

Simi Valley Education Foundation Raises More Than $87,000 to Support Simi Valley Public Schools

2009-05-04T10:14:00.000-07:00

Monday, April 13, 2009

Our Community Makes a Difference in the Future of Our Children

Simi Valley Education Foundation's "License to Give" Raises More than $87,000 To Support Simi Valley Public Schools

The Simi Valley Education Foundation recently hosted the License to Give -- Celebration of Education annual fundraiser. With a James Bond Theme, the evening included Bond Girls, signature martinis and a live auction led by Simi Valley's own high school principals - Dan Houghton from Royal High and Steve Pietrolungo from Simi High. How appropriate since the evening was about raising much-needed funds to continue to support the programs that the Foundation provides to the schools, teachers and students in Simi Valley public schools.

To read the complete article visit http://www.venturacountystar.com/news/2009/apr/13/simi-valley-education-foundation-raises-more-to/