History

The MATES Foundation is the creation of Andrew Surmani, a parent of a fourth grade MATES student and an executive for Alfred Music Publishing. Reflective of the highly talented student body and parents of the MATES community, Andrew is an accomplished trumpet player who has performed in many venues including Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center in New York.

In keeping with Andrew’s generous nature he is now dedicating his valuable time and significant talents to launching MATES Foundation to ensure that MATES students experience excellence in public education. The Foundation is dedicated to supporting the talented leadership, outstanding teachers and innovative curriculum at MATES through fundraising and creating an endowment that will assure MATES success for years to come.

The MATES Foundation completed its first fundraiser in December 2009, a Home Holiday Tour with great success. Members of the community enjoyed touring three distinctly different style homes, accompanied by guided tours from knowledgeable docents along with refreshments and live music.  We hope to continue this event every year.  The MATES Foundation Board of Directors is in full swing preparing for the Foundation’s next fundraising event, the 1st Annual Golf Classic, May 7, 2010 at Elkins Ranch in Fillmore. The Foundation is seeking additional board members who will bring vision and dedication to the Foundation’s mission of establishing financial strength for MATES. Board members will also be called upon to build strong community ties, both business and personal, so that MATES will continuously realize its vision as a true 21st century school. All at MATES and in the community are welcome and encouraged to join the Foundation at any level of giving.

Thanks to my friend and colleague Andrew Surmani, the MATES Foundation exists for all of the pioneering students now at the Conejo Valley’s first charter school and for all the students yet to come!

Sheri Polisini

MATES Founding Board Member
MATES Foundation Founding Board Member