By Lookout Staff

October 6, 2025 -- The Santa Monica Education Foundation raised $2.52 million during the 2024-25 school year to support essential staff and programs at local public schools.

The grant was presented to the School District in August to support arts programs, elementary classroom aides and STEM programs, as well as stretch grants for Santa Monica's 11 public schools.

“Every dollar given this past year is a direct investment in our students’ futures,” said Raymur Flinn, the Foundation's executive director. "This kind of generosity strengthens not just our schools, but our entire community.”

“In a time when public funding falls short of what our children deserve, our donors have stepped up to ensure vibrant, enriching programs remain a core part of a Santa Monica education, Flinn said.

Most of the funds were donated by local families and community members, while SMEF’s Corporate Heroes program raised more than $200,000 from 27 business partners.

Nearly $400,000 was raised at the sold-out Santa Monica Wine Auction hosted by the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows on May 4, Foundation officials said.

At the elementary school level, the Foundation grant funds art classes at every school, instructional assistants and enrichment grants that "allow each school to design programs," District officials aid.

At the secondary level, the grants "bring to life initiatives like college readiness programs, expanded STEM offerings, and additional arts programs."

The Foundation also manages the Samohi Scholarship Fund, which grants over $200,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors at Samohi.

“These funds open the door to programs and opportunities our students would not otherwise have, including arts, STEM, athletics and social-emotional learning," said School Board President Jen Smith.

"This partnership with the Santa Monica Education Foundation reflects a shared commitment to providing every student in Santa Monica with the tools and experiences they need to thrive.”