Mission Statement

The purpose of the Mt. Diablo Alternative Education Foundation is to secure contributions and support from individuals, groups, businesses and other organizations for the benefit of alternative education students and programs in the Mt. Diablo Unified School District.

Vision Statement

The MDAEF will expand and strengthen the network of academic and social support that empowers alternative students as they become productive, successful members of our community.

The Dick Allen Award

The Dick Allen award was established in 2006 to honor someone or a group of people who have contributed "above and beyond" to the alternative students and programs of the alternative high schools in MDUSD.

The first award was presented to Dick Allen and named in his honor. Dick taught for many years and was the original administrator of alternative education programs in the MDUSD. After his retirement he was elected to the MDUSD Board of Education.  He continues to serve on the board and is a strong supporter of alternative education.

In 2008 the Dick Allen Award was given to Peggy Raisbeck, (pictured on left).  On hand for the ceremony were this year's award recipients  as well as Peggy's family, friends, and supporters of the Mt. Diablo Alternative Education Foundation.  Peggy has been intstrumental in providing much needed financial assistance as well as her heart, to the students of the Mt. Diablo Alternative programs for many years.  In addition to her weekly contacts with students and staff, Peggy has provided a yearly scholarship which is presented each year at graduation, to assist students to be able to attend college. 

Peggy has been our wonderful guardian angel for so many years and this award could not go to a more deserving recipient. 

MDAEF Accomplishments - 2008

Awarded eight mini grants to 16 teachers for technology, materials, and field trips totaling $7820

Awarded ten $1000 scholarships to graduates in June 2008

Maintained “Heart Funds” at each school. These funds are used for critical/emergency student needs such as food, transportation, and clothing

Held a fund Poker Tournament that raised nearly $3000

Andrew Johnson, Vice President, Communications for Comcast received the second annual Dick Allen Award for being an exemplary supporter of alternative education

Grant Awards 2008-09 School Year

Alliance - Donna Rivers - Piano Keyboards
Alliance - Ron Mikuni - Science literature, visuals, manipulatives
Center for Independent Study - Marcia Blum / Julie Kipper - Environmental Science Materials
Center for Independent Study - Lori Gamblin / Peter Holm - Rich Dad Cash Flow Program
Crossroads -  Christine Ulrichsen - Microslide viewers, prepared slides
Crossroads -  Samantha Allen - Books for grammar and writing techniques
Gateway -  Angela Hunter / Lewis Compton - Mobile library
Nueva Vista - James Daulton - Mobile Bunsen burner
Nueva Vista - Shannon Frishinger - Class set; The Things They Carried
Olympic - Liane Cismowski - Textbooks; Willard Daggett; School to Work
Olympic - Teri Cooper / Nancy Kracjar - Environmental Science materials
Olympic - Kat Marzel - Digital video camera,,,,and sound equipment
Olympic/Alliance - Peri Curtis / Kelly Senseri / Kendra Amerson - DimensionM interactive computer program
Prospect / Work Experience - Brenda Beteta - Computer Program - the Vision
Prospect - Sol Henik / Michael Clause - DimensionM interactive computer program

Congressman George Miller and Alice Bonner

Mt. Diablo Alternative Education Foundation Board of Directors

(from left to right):  Emily Stone, Maureen Kilmurry, Chris Basman, Carol Fidler, Alice Bonner,Pete Tormey, Barb Johnson
Missing: Angie Ferreira, Steve Fratus, KatieGaines, Lauren Hole, Amber Hom, Rick Moerschell