Carlsbad Gala Aims To Boost Funding For STEAM, Music And Innovation Programs

CARLSBAD, CA — A major fundraiser supporting Carlsbad public schools is slated to return next month.

Carlsbad Educational Foundation's fifth annual Gala to Benefit Students on March 14 at Omni La Costa Resort & Spa will raise funds for programs serving nearly 11,000 students in grades TK-12 across all 16 Carlsbad public schools.

This year's event will honor Michele Tsutagawa Ward and Sam Ward for their contributions to education and public service in the Carlsbad community, according to the foundation. The gala will feature a live performance from the 13-piece Southern California band N'Demand, dinner and cocktails, and live and silent auctions.

Organizers expect more than 500 community leaders, philanthropists and education advocates to attend what the foundation describes as its largest districtwide fundraiser supporting Carlsbad Unified School District students. Since its inception in 2022, the gala has raised more than $1.2 million for programs in music, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math), and educational innovation.

"The Gala is one of the most powerful ways our community comes together to invest in the future of local education," said Laura Pitts, CEO of the Carlsbad Educational Foundation. "Every ticket purchased, auction bid placed, and donation made directly supports hands-on learning opportunities that help Carlsbad students thrive both inside and outside the classroom."

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available at CarlsbadEd.org/Gala.