The Pleasanton Partnerships in Education Foundation (PPIE) is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated solely to supporting the Pleasanton Unified School District. Its focus is entirely on serving Pleasanton students, educators, and schools. PPIE operates with a lean team, supported by a dedicated Board of Directors and a strong network of volunteers, ambassadors, and community partners. PPIE moved to Hacienda in the fall of 2024 along with the Pleasanton Unified School district, and has an office within that building.

“Our mission is to enhance educational excellence in Pleasanton public schools by raising funds to support programs that are not fully funded by state and local dollars,” says Executive Director Andrea Wilson. “We exist to bridge the gap between what public funding provides and what our students truly need to thrive. PPIE serves students, families, educators, and the broader community. What makes us unique is that every dollar raised stays local and supports all schools district-wide. We fund programs such as elementary music specialists, wellness centers, librarian support, student and teacher innovation grants, and transportation for Outdoor Education. Our donors can see the direct impact of their investment in their own community.” Many people assume public schools are fully funded through tax dollars, but the reality is that California school funding often falls short of community expectations, according to Wilson. “Education foundations like PPIE play a vital role in sustaining programs that families value. It may also surprise people how deeply local businesses contribute to the success of our public schools and how beneficial it is to support the community in which you work. We also offer ways for businesses to serve as class speakers, mentors, and club advisors.”

As school districts across California face budget challenges, PPIE has stepped in to help sustain essential programs. For example, it has provided significant funding to support elementary music education and middle school wellness centers, programs that might otherwise face reductions due to budget constraints. Funding from PPIE ensures students continue to have access to enrichment and mental health resources that are critical to their academic and personal success.

PPIE hosts a variety of events. The annual State of the School District event convenes school, city, and business leaders for an important conversation about the future of education in Pleasanton. It holds a fundraising Gala each fall. Each spring, PPIE hosts the Pleasanton Run for Education, its largest community event. The 2026 Pleasanton Run for Education takes place on April 19 at Pleasanton Middle School. The Pleasanton Run for Education will offer 5K (3.1 mile), 10K (6.2 mile), and 2 mile distances. All three courses are designed for participants of all ages and athletic abilities, including runners, walkers, and parents pushing baby jogger strollers. There is also a ¼ mile fun run for children three to 10 years old.

“The Pleasanton Run for Education brings together families, educators, business leaders, and civic partners in support of our schools,” notes Wilson. “They provide meaningful opportunities for Hacienda businesses to engage with the community while directly supporting programs that enhance students' educational journey. Along with traditional sponsorships, we offer ways for businesses to sponsor their employees to participate for team building. Strong public schools are foundational to a strong business community. They attract families, support property values, and develop the future workforce. When businesses partner with PPIE, they are investing directly in the long-term vitality of Pleasanton.”

For more information about Pleasanton Partnerships in Education Foundation, please visit www.ppie.org, www.instagram.com/pleasantonppie, www.facebook.com/PleasantonPartnershipsInEducation, or www.linkedin.com/in/ppieorg.