2026-2027 SMART Fund

Highlands PTA Annual Giving Campaign

The SMART Fund is Highlands PTA’s annual giving campaign and is separate from PTA membership.

SMART Fund donations provide the additional funding that helps Highlands offer programs, enrichment, teacher support, events, and resources beyond the district-funded school program.

100% of SMART Fund donations stay at Highlands Elementary to support our students and school community.

Our goal is broad participation from Highlands families. Every gift makes a difference, and we encourage families to contribute at a level that is meaningful for them.

Donate to the SMART Fund

Don't forget that you may be able to double your donation if your employer matches your donation. Check here to see if they do.

Thank you to our recent 2026-2027 SMART Fund donors!

Nicholas and Dorothy Aftowicz-Yi

Preeti Nalavade and Jerry Lee

Simran Mahal

Corporate Donors

SMART fund programs*

Funded Staff

Teacher aides, English Language Arts Aide, General support Aide, and Teacher Grant Programs

School and Teacher Support

Classroom gardens, hands-on science education, supplemental music programs, art programs, classroom & student school supplies, library materials, PE & Recess equipment and educational Software such as: IXL, BrainPop, RAZ Kids, Scholastic News

Social and Enrichment Programs

Assemblies, Highlands Theatre, international show, lunchtime enrichment programs, community nights, student clubs, family dance, science nights, parent education programs, student t-shirts

And much, much more!

* Note: programs vary each year depending on budget and school needs

Donate now

Help Us Reach Our Goal

Our goal is strong participation from the Highlands community. When families contribute together, we can continue providing the programs and resources that benefit all Highlands students.

If your family hasn’t yet contributed, we invite you to participate. Every donation — at any level — helps.

Make Your Gift Go Further

Installment options are available
Many employers offer matching gifts
Grandparents and extended family can contribute too
Donations may be tax-deductible*

Donate now

*Please consult your tax advisor regarding your individual circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the HIGHLANDS SMART FUND and the San Mateo-Foster City Ed Foundation?

100% of the donations to the Highlands SMART Fund stay at our school to support our programs. The San Mateo-Foster City Education Foundation (SMFCEF) is a non-profit organization that raises dollars to support District-wide programs at all schools in the San Mateo-Foster City School District.

What is the SMART fund tax ID number?

Our EIN Federal Tax identification number is: 94-6172358

What is the SMART fund goal for the 2026/2027 school year?

Our SMART Fund goal for the 2026–27 school year is $65,000.

Is there a suggested contribution?

To help us reach our annual goal, the suggested contribution is $900 per child or $1,400 per family.

We recognize that every family’s circumstances are different. Every contribution, at any amount, is meaningful and appreciated, and we hope every Highlands family will participate.

How is the Highlands SMART fund budget allocated?

The Highlands SMART Fund supports all PTA-sponsored enrichment programs at Highlands for the school year. These programs are directly supported and paid for through YOUR donations.*

*Data from 2026-2027 proposed Highlands PTA Budget

Donate now

The SMART Fund is Highlands PTA’s annual giving campaign and helps fund programs, enrichment, teacher support, events, and resources that directly benefit Highlands students throughout the year.

DONATE TO THE SMART FUND

LEARN MORE

VOLUNTEER AT HIGHLANDS

Want to get involved? Tell us how you’d like to help with events, programs, classrooms, and other PTA needs.