Willow Glen Middle School and High School Foundation is an example of that support.

Twenty-five volunteers participated in the Feb. 4 annual phone-a-thon.

"This is more people than we had last year," said Willow Glen High School choir director Andrew Eisenmann.

The goal for the foundation was to raise $10,000, said publicity chairman Beth Martinez. And things started off with a bang. Even before the fundraiser began, a parent donated $5,000 as a challenge grant.

Instead of exhausting their efforts over two nights, Willow Glen Middle School and High School Foundation President Pam English said they decided to reduce the phone-a-thon down to one evening so the group could "focus on the people who care about the schools."

Three high school seniors also lent a hand.

Willow Glen High School senior Liz Earl was at the fundraiser with her friend Kim English. Kim's mother is the foundation president. Kim wanted to do something to help her school.

The foundation board's student representative and editor of the high school newspaper Joseph Luperico said he became involved because "they have a lot to do with how money is spent at the school."

Peak Travel Group's owners Tyler and Kim Peak have a son at Willow Glen High School and offered their offices and phones after business hours to call parents and previous donors.

"I think this night is testimony to the great community we have that works together to provide for our students," Farace said.

The foundation is a group of parents, students and community members who seek to enhance programs at local schools.

The foundation's funding provides the career fair at the high school and a career and guidance counselor, supports the robotics team and music program and provides college preparation and after-school sports at the middle school.

"With all the state cutbacks, the foundation is even more vital than it ever was," said San Jose Unified School District trustee Carol Myers.