The MATES Foundation, which supports Meadows Arts and Technology Elementary School, conducted its inaugural Holiday Home Tour on Dec. 12. Money raised will benefit the new charter school, which is under the direction of Julie Antilla-Garza.

Foundation President Andrew Sumani said the tour was a success.

“I was so amazed to see the endless volunteer hours put in by so many dedicated MATES parents, with great support from our community, to make our first event a huge success,” Sumani said. “We are excited to continue to build and expand the first charter school in the Conejo Valley.”

More than 100 people toured three Conejo Oaks homes. Music was provided by the MATES fifth-grade choir and the Valley Brass band. Local vendors, including David Jeffrey Designs and Whole Foods market, donated services and refreshments.

The foundation comprises MATES parents, and its primary focus is to help the school achieve its financial goals. The organization works to provide funds for covered eating areas, technology equipment, a music lab and teacher training. Beginning in January, funds from the tour will pay for teachers’ aides in the three kindergarten classes, reducing the student-teacher ratio from 20-to-1 to 10-to-1.

Sumani said fundraisers planned for 2010 include a golf classic at Elkins Ranch in Fillmore and a black tie event.

For more information, visit www.matescharter.org and click on the MATES Foundation tab.