Gala celebrates Simi education
Organizers hope event will build on last year's success

The Simi Valley Education Foundation will host its Celebration of Education Annual Gala from 6:30 p.m. until midnight Friday, March 10 at the Air Force One Pavilion at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley.

All proceeds from the fundraising event go to the Simi Valley Unified School District.

"Last year we raised $130,000 and provided $75,000 in grants to teachers and schools to purchase equipment and books," said Cindy Jacoby, the education foundation's executive director. "We were able to give our schools and teachers additional resources that are so much needed. Everything we raise goes back to the schools. This is such a valuable event for the community."

The gala is designed to highlight the importance of education and to offer growth and enrichment opportunities to students throughout the school district, Jacoby said.

The evening features a sitdown dinner, musical entertainment, dancing, and live and silent auctions. Auction items include original art, vacation packages, gift baskets and even a training day for two with the Simi Valley Police Swat Team, Jacoby said.

Tickets for the gala are $150 per person and can be purchased by calling (877) 746-4543 or online at www.svef.org.