FAQs
Frequently asked questions
What is CAF?
The Carlmont Academic Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit staffed by a group of parents and community members who volunteer their time to raise money for Carlmont High School. CAF is the only fundraising organization focused on financially supporting academics at our high school.
Why do we need CAF?
With your generous donations, CAF is able to provide a better educational experience for all students by funding smaller class sizes, innovative cutting edge classes and essential programs, all of Carlmont’s instructional supplies, as well as professional development for our teachers. Carlmont students need your help to bridge the gap between what is provided by the state and local funding and what they need to be ready in the classroom and ready for life.
What is the 'Ask' amount?
Donations of $1,200 or more per student are suggested, but but not everyone can afford this amount. We ask that you make a donation that is within your families budget. And if you can, make a bigger impact and join our Leadership Circle with a gift of $3,000 and above. CAF relies on all of our donors to support our students. Donations of any amount help us reach our goal.
How do I make a donation?
We make it easy to donate online or by check. Donate online by credit or debit card or EFT by going to our donation page. You can mail a check to: Carlmont Academic Foundation, PO Box 104, Belmont, CA 94002. If you work for a company that makes matching donations to non-profits, check out our Corporate Matching page. Want to donate stock? Learn more on the CAF Stock Donations page.
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes! Donations to CAF are 100% tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. The Carlmont Academic Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization (tax ID 26-0325796).
When I donate to the Carlmont Academic Foundation, how will I know that my money is put to good use?
CAF donations are very much like SCEF or SchoolForce donations. With a donation, a donor is supporting the mission of CAF and the academic priorities it represents. The Carlmont administration knows and appreciates that funds are being given annually and are counted on to close the gap and fund the programs that make Carlmont unique – if not used appropriately then the following year the parent community will not step up to donate.
What does CAF fund?
- smaller class sizes
- innovative cutting-edge classes and essential programs
- an additional counselor
- a college and career assistant
- all of Carlmont’s instructional supplies
- student support through a before and after-school tutoring center and college essay assistance
- professional development for our teachers
How does my donation help with adding class sections?
Each year the Instructional VP creates a master schedule that lists the classes offered and the # of periods, or sections, that are offered. The district pays for 6 class periods (sections) for each student, while many students take 7 periods. Because Carlmont offers this additional choice not funded by the district, your donations pay for the extra sections. This year, your donations to CAF paid for 17 class sections at $23,500 per section. The additional class sections allow reduced class sizes for core classes such as English and Social Studies. Additional class sections also mean more innovative and creative class choices.
Why does Carlmont need funds from me? Isn’t the school one of the best on the Peninsula?
When I donate, may I direct the money to fund specific classes?
How does this help Carlmont with the new Common Core Standards?
Besides providing class sections, what other Carlmont programs does CAF support?

Our students are why we give!
Donate now to make a difference!