Friends of Columbia Secondary School

 

Friends of Columbia Secondary School for Math, Science, and Engineering (FoCSS)

Empowering Excellence. Expanding Opportunities.

Friends of Columbia Secondary School for Math, Science, and Engineering (FoCSS) is a New York State charitable 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to supporting the academic mission of Columbia Secondary School (CSS). Our purpose is simple yet powerful: to enhance the educational experiences of CSS students, teachers, and staff, ensuring that every student has access to exceptional opportunities not often found in traditional public schools.

What We Do
FoCSS funds and sustains the critical infrastructure and dynamic programming that set CSS apart. Our support includes:

  • College Office Support:
    We fund essential salaried positions within the College Office to ensure students have expert guidance throughout the college admissions process. Our support also covers college visits, essay coaches, application resources, and anything else the College Office needs to help students navigate their path to higher education.
  • Innovative Learning Tools: Providing cutting-edge engineering and technology equipment. Technology Specialist who provide students, faculty, and staff with tailored assistance for all their classroom needs. 
  • After-School & Extracurricular Activities: Supporting clubs, electives, field trips, college tours, and special events like the annual school musical.
  • Academic Enrichment: Covering the costs of AP exams, funding college application tools like Naviance, and subsidizing textbooks for students taking Columbia University courses.

These resources are not luxuries—they are essential components of the CSS experience. Without FoCSS, many of these opportunities simply wouldn’t exist.

Who We Are
FoCSS is a community-driven organization, made up of current and former CSS parents, students, and staff. Our dedicated volunteers meet monthly to strategize, fundraise, and ensure that CSS continues to thrive.

FoCSS and the Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
While both organizations support CSS, FoCSS operates independently from both the PTA and the NYC Department of Education. We focus primarily on financial support and resource development, while the PTA emphasizes community engagement and family involvement. Collaboration between the two ensures a holistic support system for our school.

Where Our Funds Come From
Our funding sources include:

  • Annual Contributions from Columbia University
  • Generous Donations from CSS Families and Alumni
  • Grants, Corporate Matching Gifts, and External Fundraising Initiatives

Why Your Support Matters
Your donation isn’t just a gift—it’s an investment in the future of CSS students. Your support helps preserve the unique programs, academic excellence, and inclusive community that define CSS. All contributions to FoCSS are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. We are a registered 501(c)(3) organization listed on GuideStar and Cause IQ, and we undergo regular audits to ensure financial transparency.

How to Donate

  • Online Platform HERE
  • Check made out to Friends of Columbia Secondary School

Learn More

Contact us at: President_FriendsofCSS@columbiasecondary.org

Join us in shaping the future—because every student deserves an extraordinary education.