It is no surprise that our school district is facing unprecedented times.  State budgets have been cut and our schools are being asked to do more with less.  Teachers are making great sacrifices to educate our children, but there is only so much they can do with the current resources funded by the state.  Our district needs investors.  People like you who understand that the students of today are our greatest assets .

With the state controlling funding, districts receive a base amount for each student enrolled. Additional funds are typically granted to districts in the form of categorical spending, or funds designated for specific programs tied to demographic, socioeconomic or other factors. CUSD qualifies for very limited categorical funds, and therefore receives a lower amount than most districts. Although the districts operating costs rise each year (even before addressing staff salaries), the state may  implement a cost of living adjustment, depending on its own finances. So when costs such as utilities or health benefits increase, the district must  find a way to fund the increases. This is in addition to any negotiated compensation increases for teachers or other staff. Since most of the district budget is salary, the only way to fund the increases is to eliminate positions.  CEF is anxious to step up and do its part to help avoid this, but can't do it without your investment.      

Claremont residents have high expectations of their schools, as they should.   We want top-notch public education for our children, and that will require investment.  Please know that CEF understands these issues and strongly urges you to get involved.   Your continuous donations to CEF  helps fund many  programs, and we are only getting started.