SVEF 2014 Holiday Drive for Education

Silicon Valley Education Foundation's mission is to make Silicon Valley the leader in academically prepared high school graduates, ready for college and career success.

The Problem

Failing to successfully complete Algebra I in 8th grade can severely limit a student’s options for college. It is the gatekeeper to college-prep math courses such as Geometry, Algebra II, Pre-Calculus, and Calculus. 

Yet, only 48% of 8th graders in Santa Clara County are proficient on the Algebra I California Standards Test (CST). More than half of the Valley’s students need our help to prepare for high school and college success.

The Solution

SVEF’s Elevate [Math] program is a summer intervention program designed to prepare students for Algebra I in 8th grade.  Elevate [Math] is taught by credentialed teachers who create a fun and interactive classroom experience by incorporating technology tools and providing mentorship from college-level teaching assistants and corporate volunteers.  To instill a college-bound culture in students and their families, Elevate [Math] holds College Nights and takes students on field trips to local universities like San Jose State, Santa Clara University, and Stanford University. 

A Second Chance to Stay on the Path to College.

In addition to extended time on math, SVEF works closely with school districts to realign student trajectories.  For example, a 7th grader deemed not ready for Algebra I in 8th grade can change their course placement by participating in Elevate [Math] over the summer.  If students demonstrate reasonable progress in the program, school districts will change their course placement to Algebra I when they return to school in the fall.

Elevate [Math] Plus is an extension of the Elevate [Math] program during the school year.  Elevate [Math] Plus provides continued support to 8th grade students currently enrolled in Algebra I through Saturday sessions.

How You Can Help

Please join in our efforts to put more Silicon Valley students on track for college and career! To get involved, you can: 

• Donate, 
• Become a Fundraiser and set up your own fundraising goal, and/or
• Tell a friend: Share our campaign via Facebook, Twitter, and email!