It’s up to us – the parents and community – to make sure our kids get a world-class education!
Did you know that your student’s education at Mission Estancia extends beyond the standard, state-funded curriculum?
Thanks to donations from our Mission Estancia families and community, the PTA/EEF helps to fund Mission Estancia’s incredible enrichment programs. When you donate to the Encinitas Educational Foundation (EEF) through our school fundraisers, 100% of your donation will supplement the educational experience for our students. Mission Estancia’s Enrichment Program currently consists of Music, Digital Literacy, Science Enrichment, Physical Education, Yoga, and Library. These programs make up the Rotation Wheel. Students go to rotations once each week to take advantage of the educational opportunities provided in these classrooms.
Why are enrichment programs so important?
Simply put, studies show that children who participate in academic enrichment programs show growth in academic achievement, as well as social and emotional well-being.
For example, children who participate in arts classes and in sports have better test scores and grade point averages than those who do not. These activities promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills by encouraging children to think outside the box. (source: Springboard)
And let’s talk digital literacy! Outside of the basics, we now know that learning computer coding helps empowers kids. Coding puts children in control of the computer and through experimentation builds mastery in sequencing skills, counting, problem solving, logical thinking, cause and effect, and critical thinking. (eschool news)
All of our enrichment programs offer students hands-on opportunities to enhance creative thinking, leadership skills, collaborative learning, increased literacy and so much more.
How are these programs funded? What is the EEF?
EEF stands for Encinitas Educational Foundation. As a non-profit, the mission of EEF is to assist in the achievement and maintenance of a superior public school education within the Encinitas Union School District (EUSD).
One of the main fundraising goals of the PTA/EEF at M.E. is to raise funds to pay for the Enrichment teachers’ salaries. By connecting Parents, Alumni, Educators, Businesses, and the Community, EEF builds partnerships and fundraising opportunities to offset school district fiscal restraints.
At Mission Estancia, the EEF aims to build on and enhance the education students are receiving from the standard curriculum. The Enrichment teachers are full-time, fully credentialed teachers who specialize in the subject they teach.
Who decides how the donations are spent?
Each year, the Mission Estancia School Site Council (SSC) develops a plan and budget to determine the needs of the M.E. Enrichment Program. The School Site Council is comprised of administrators, teachers, and parents. Their focus is to provide our children with the best education possible. Every child benefits from our funded programs.
We need your help!
As a 501c non-profit, the EEF is entirely dependent on donations from our families and community. The Mission Estancia PTA holds a fundraiser at the beginning of each year to help fund these enrichment programs. Additionally, the Mission Estancia EEF holds a gala each year specifically to raise funds specifically for the M.E. enrichment program. It’s tons of fun, and 100% of the net proceeds will go towards our future enrichment programs. Be on the lookout for news about this year’s gala!
Also, we are always happy to welcome volunteers to assist our Enrichment teachers, help run special programs, or assist in the planning of the annual gala. Please contact Julie Lyons if you’d like to discuss ways you can help.