FAQs

 

Who is the Mahtomedi Area Educational Foundation, MAEF?

The Mahtomedi Area Educational Foundation is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that was founded in 1988 to support Mahtomedi Public Schools.

The mission of the Mahtomedi Area Educational Foundation is to support and enhance Mahtomedi Public Schools to engage, challenge and inspire all students from birth to graduation (E-12).

MAEF's success depends upon the generous contributions of community members who share our organizational mission.

What is the difference between MAEF and Parent Associations (PTO/MMSPA)?

Both MAEF and Parent Associations play an important role in providing opportunities for students and staff and celebrating our school community.

Parent Associations build a sense of community with parents and teachers of elementary and middle school students in their respective buildings. They enhance school programs with the support of parent volunteers, enrichment programs, special events, fundraising, service, and support.

The Mahtomedi Area Educational Foundation is committed to supporting Mahtomedi Public Schools. MAEF is an advocate for the district, helps to support District Initiatives and fulfills its mission by providing Grants, Scholarships, and Other Support to ensure a brighter future for all students and teachers.

How does the Mahtomedi Area Educational Foundation, MAEF distribute and award funds? 

The Mahtomedi Area Educational Foundation distributes and awards funds in the following ways.

Grants – Each year MAEF awards grants to Mahtomedi Public Schools employees to pursue an educational opportunity that leads to incorporating new materials/opportunities in their classroom. The MAEF Grants Committee comprised of MAEF Trustees and community members, reviews all applications, and makes recommendations for funding to the MAEF Board of Trustees. 

Scholarships - MAEF awards scholarships to Mahtomedi High School graduates to further their education. Scholarships are available because of generous donations from individuals and families. Scholarship donors recognize the importance of education and have chosen to actively participate in extending this opportunity.

Other Support – Through specific requests, MAEF also supports the basic needs of students, opportunities for student enrichment, and recognition of our teachers and staff. The MAEF Sponsorship Committee reviews all requests and makes recommendations for funding to the MAEF Board of Trustees.

District Initiatives – MAEF has been proud to partner with Mahtomedi Public Schools as a key supporter of many leading-edge district initiatives, including:

  • Literacy libraries to strengthen literacy instruction and build classroom literacy libraries 

  • Mental wellness programs including the Zephyr Wellness program

  • Student clubs supporting exceptional learning experiences for students to discover and pursue interests-Cooking Club, Maht-O-Make-It, Rocket Club, MAPS, Youth in Government, and Fiber Arts Club–to name a few.

  • Device for Every Learner program providing a digital device for every learner and teacher

  • Wildwood Artist Series Ellen C. Bruner Professional Performing Artist Residency Program

  • Fab Lab at Mahtomedi High School- the first fabrication laboratory in a U.S. high school

  • Wildwood Elementary natural playground

  • MAEF Angel Fund to support the basic needs of students and families

How can you get involved?

Donate - Click here to learn more about how you can help support MAEF and our mission.

Volunteer - MAEF depends upon a community of dedicated volunteers to do the work needed to fulfill our mission.  Click here to learn more about volunteer opportunities.