The Moraga Education Foundation (MEF) held its 5th annual Spring Festival on April 24 at the Rheem Theatre. Students and teachers from programs funded by MEF showcased their accomplishments from the year.
“It’s a way to thank our donors for their support of the programs that MEF funds, as well as a chance to celebrate the talents of the students from kindergarten through high school,” said MEF President Kim Matranga.
The event started at 5:30 with booths displaying students’ work. Moraga’s 3 elementary schools displayed artwork, computer skills, science projects, and library programs. Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School (JM) held a ceramics booth. Campolindo wood tech and photography students and teachers showed off various finished products. “We had a bunch of pieces of wood made by students, and we explained to parents and younger students what the pieces were and how they were made,” said sophomore Patrick White, who helped run the wood tech booth.
At 6:30, Campolindo chamber singers performed songs a capella in the lobby.
At about 6:45, MEF ushered people into one of the Rheem theater screening rooms. The elementary schools’ choirs and bands, JM’s video production class, and Campolindo’s drama and jazz band classes all presented their work. In addition, principals from Moraga schools and MEF officers gave speeches thanking MEF donors for their support.
According to Matranga, the festival was held at the Moraga Commons for its 1st 3 years. 2 years ago, it was moved to the Rheem Theatre because MEF wanted to show videos and avoid unpredictable weather. In addition, Matranga said the Commons “wasn’t the ideal place” to display art and science exhibits.
Matranga considered the festival a success. “The turnout was well beyond what we expected. I heard we caused a traffic jam,” said Matranga.
