Exploring the Diverse Programs of the Alameda Education Foundation
The Alameda Education Foundation (AEF) plays a vital role in enriching the educational experiences of students within the Alameda Unified School District (AUSD) and its charter schools. Through a variety of programs, AEF aims to supplement school funding and provide opportunities that cater to a wide range of student interests and needs.
After School Enrichment Program
The Alameda Education Foundation’s After School Enrichment program offers diverse classes and activities that align with students’ interests and passions. These classes are held at every AUSD elementary school and Nea. To stay informed about the latest class offerings, it is recommended to check the listings regularly.
Registration and Enrollment
Registration for the After School Enrichment Program is conducted online. Prior to registering, it's crucial to understand the program's Policies and Procedures. Late enrollments are accepted if space is available, and transfers can be requested up to 7 days before the class starts.
Cancellations and Refunds
The AEF has specific policies regarding cancellations and refunds. Cancellations made up to 14 days before the class start date can be processed through the Active Online Camp and Class Manager account, resulting in a refund to the original payment method, minus a $20 fee. Cancellations made between 14 and 7 days before the class start date, also via the online platform, will result in a credit to the AEF account, less a $20 processing fee.
Scholarship Opportunities
AEF provides scholarships for students to participate in its programs. Scholarships are granted for one class or camp per student each season. To apply for a scholarship, an online form must be completed. Approval of the scholarship is contingent upon receiving the required proof, which must be submitted within 48 hours of completing the form. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure that the proof is submitted.
Read also: Overview of Alameda Basketball
Support for Students with Adaptive Needs
AEF welcomes students with adaptive needs into its programs. If a student requires a one-on-one assistant or paraprofessional during the school day, they must also have similar support during the enrichment class or camp. Coordination with AEF is necessary at least three weeks before the program starts to ensure appropriate arrangements. Assistants or paraprofessionals must have Livescan and TB clearance on file with AUSD. For the first five families requesting paraprofessional support per season, AEF covers the cost. Subsequent requests may incur a small fee.
Program Dates
AEF programs run at various times throughout the academic year. Examples of start and end dates include:
- September 10, 17, 24, October 1, 8, 22, 29, November 5, 12, December 3, 10 (No class October 15, November)
- September 11, 18, 25, October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 6, 13, December 4, 11 (No class November)
- September 15, 22, 29, October 6, 20, 27 (No class October)
- September 16, 23, 30, October 7, 14, 21, 28, November
Middle School Sports Program
Since 2009, AEF has managed the middle school sports program for AUSD, extending its reach to Alameda public charter schools as well. The program is available to students in grades 6-8 enrolled in these schools.
Team Structure and Registration
Student-athletes represent their school teams, except in cross country, which features a city-wide team known as the Asteroids. For volleyball and basketball, team tryouts are announced at the school sites, and registration should only occur after receiving a Participation Letter from the coach. For cross country and track & field, registration must be completed within the specified period, as late registrations are not permitted.
Season Passes and Fees
Sport-specific season passes are available for purchase, costing $40 for adults and $25 for students. All-sports season passes are also offered at $100 for adults and $85 for students. The 2025-2026 participation fee is $150 per student for all sports except Cross Country, which is $195 per student.
Read also: Exploring CoA's Academic Landscape
Code of Conduct
AEF emphasizes a positive experience for all student-athletes and has established a Code of Conduct for students, parents/guardians, and spectators. Individual school sites may have additional requirements.
Eligibility and Policies
To participate in AEF sports, student-athletes must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 with no failing grades in the most recent grading term. AEF adheres to CIF (California Interscholastic Federation) and AUSD policies regarding equitable participation, ensuring that all students, regardless of sex or gender, are eligible to participate.
Funding
The Middle School Sports program relies on donations, grants, and sponsorships to cover its operational costs, which exceed $100,000. AEF does not receive funding from the Alameda Unified School District.
Cross Country Program
The Asteroids Cross Country season has been very competitive. Starting this year, AEF’s Asteroids Cross Country program will be a part of the Middle School sports program. The program is open to students enrolled in Alameda Unified and Charter public middle schools grades 6th-8th.
Scholarship Opportunities
Scholarships are available for students participating in middle school sports. The process is the same as for the After School Enrichment Program: an online form must be completed, and proof of need must be submitted within 48 hours for the scholarship to be considered.
Read also: Pathway to College and Career Success
Community Engagement and Cultural Celebrations
AEF actively engages with the community and promotes cultural awareness through various events and programs.
Filipino American History Month
AEF recognizes Filipino American History Month in October, commemorating the first recorded presence of Filipinos in the continental United States on October 18, 1587.
National Hispanic Heritage Month
AEF also celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month, which begins on September 15 and ends on October, to honor Latinos, their culture, and their history. AEF’s Art Changes program features five artists who represent Hispanic Culture: Brazilian landscape painter Alex D.
Leadership and Vision
AEF is led by Executive Director Julia Owens, who assumed the role in January 2025. Owens was interviewed by Island City Beat‘s Angie Watson-Hajjem (who is also a former AEF Board member) in July 2025. She heads the 40-year-old organization that has stepped in where school funding for many activities has been cut.
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