SCSD Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 14, 2026

San Carlos, CA — The San Carlos School District (SCSD), in partnership with the Elkes Foundation and the San Carlos Education Foundation (SCEF), is proud to announce the launch of the Elkes Foundation Scholarship Program—a new initiative supporting SCSD employees in their pursuit of educational advancement and career growth.

Former White Oaks Principal Leah Scholar and Dan Elkes introduced the scholarship program at a Welcome Wednesday celebration. The Elkes Foundation Scholarship memorializes the Elkes family’s deep ties to the White Oaks School community. Dan Elkes, father of four White Oaks alumni—Claire, Jacob, Tessa, and Isaac—seeded the program as a way to honor the remarkable educators and staff who shaped his children's lives. In his remarks, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to the White Oaks team, both past and present, whose care and dedication left a lasting impact on his family.

During the celebration, former White Oaks teacher and current Arundel Elementary Principal, Kim Norgaard, shared reflections on her own journey through higher education and professional growth. Her story underscored the profound influence teachers have—both as learners and as mentors.

“We are so grateful to the Elkes Foundation for this transformative investment,” said SCSD Board President Tracy Park. “This program directly supports our strategic goals by investing in the incredible people who make our schools thrive.”

The Elkes Foundation Scholarship Program will provide annual tuition reimbursement grants ranging from $1,000 - $5,000 for eligible SCSD employees pursuing certification, credentialing, or degree programs that support their career growth within the district. The initiative is designed to “grow our own” educators by supporting pathways from instructional aide to credentialed teacher, or from classroom teacher to specialist roles, including special education and administration.

“This scholarship fills a critical need,” said Superintendent Jennifer Frentress. “While we’ve offered residencies and formed partnerships with higher education, we’ve lacked dedicated tuition support for aspiring educators. This program helps change that—and strengthens recruitment for our district.”

Through this generous gift, the Elkes family has created a living tribute to the White Oaks community, celebrating its enduring values of learning, commitment, and compassion. The new fund will be managed through the SCEF Endowment, allowing the program to sustain itself long term.

To further memorialize the Elke’s family contributions, a tree planting ceremony was held —a symbolic White Oak— to commemorate the launch and honor the community roots of the Elkes family's gift.

SCSD extends its heartfelt thanks to the Elkes Foundation, SCEF, and all partners who helped bring this vision to life. The scholarship program is a powerful example of how community generosity can shape the future, one educator at a time.

Please direct any questions about the program to Superintendent Jennifer Frentress at jfrentress@scsdk8.org.

###