About LASF: Introduction

The Lafayette Arts & Science Foundation makes a difference in the education of every child in Lafayette's public schools.

For 26 years, the Lafayette Arts & Science Foundation has been an active force in our community.  A private, nonprofit education foundation run by volunteers, LASF provides top-quality curriculum-based programs and support in the areas of science, math, history, writing, foreign language, technology, art, and music to the students of all of Lafayette's public schools.  Contrary to its name, LASF does not focus simply on arts and science - it is much broader: LASF is truly the education foundation of Lafayette.

Founded in 1980 in response to education cutbacks resulting from Prop.13, LASF has a long history of enriching the education of Lafayette school children.  Although LASF operates primarily as a program-driven organization that develops and delivers proven, ongoing curriculum enhancement, we maintain strong partnerships with the two school districts we serve - working hard to ensure that our programs are appropriate, relevant and integrated into the districts' curriculum.  Now more than ever we are working closely with the districts to help mitigate the impacts of budget reductions while maintaining the integrity of our programs, and we continue to explore ways that we can help minimize the effect of the budget crisis on our community's students.

LASF is Unique

Unlike most education foundations that simply raise money and turn it over to their affiliated schools, LASF has its own vision about how to maximize its value to our schools. In addition to coordinating and sponsoring art and science fairs, music festivals, and other special programs, LASF administers its own unique instructional programs, continually evaluating the quality, relevance and value of each program, in conjunction with district-provided curriculum. We also develop new programs when appropriate, working closely with teachers and district adminitrators to ensure stimulating content, age-appropriateness and curriculum enhancement.

Community Support

The growth in need and demand for LASF programs and support makes fundraising a critical function.  LASF relies on generous donations from parents and the community at large. LASF offers a creative private-sector contribution to a public need.

LASF is a 501(c)(3) organization, gifts to which are deductible as charitable contributions for income tax purposes.

The artwork on this page was reproduced from original art created by students of Lafayette public schools made in LASF art classes or in art classes supported by LASF funding.