Foundation helps Woodside High graduates Foundation helps Woodside High graduates (August 11, 2004)

Fifteen seniors just graduated from Woodside High School received some unexpected financial help recently from the Mather Family Foundation, which creates annual scholarships from donations received by Woodside alumni, parents and friends of the school.

Former social-studies teacher Jack Mather and his son founded the organization in 1998, a year after Mr. Mather retired from a 36-year career at Woodside. Mr. Mather was on Woodside's scholarship committee for many years, where he said he saw too few kids getting awards.

"Three or four people picked up all the marbles and everyone else was left in the lurch," he said. "We try to give more kids encouragement and let them know that somebody cares about them. ... It's been a very rewarding experience."

Eligibility is based on grades and financial need. The foundation has no overhead, no offices and no officers, Mr. Mather said.

Of the $14,800 given away this year, $1,700 went to each of seven Woodside seniors, all of whom are headed to four-year colleges, he said. The recipients are Todd Norwood, Jose Solorio, Veronica Porfirio, Ami Mankey, Lauren Glasson, Anthony Trujillo and Kenny Gabe.

Other awards included a $1,000 scholarship to David Ochoa, $800 to Sarah Verbeck, two awards of $200, and four gift certificates of $175 for books.

For more information, call Jack Mather at 941-3309.

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