The Mercer Island School District got a little extra help in closing the projected $2.1 million budget deficit after the sixth annual Mercer Island Schools Foundation breakfast.

The foundation raised over $423,000 for the district at the breakfast, twice the record amount raised in 2008. According to the Schools Foundation, an attendance record was also set with 520 people stopping by the high school on Tuesday morning. The event, emceed by King 5 news anchor Jean Enersen, a Mercer Island High School graduate, featured guest speaker Gary Plano, superintendent of the district.

“Donation-matching angels and close cooperation with our PTAs were key to smashing our fundraising records,” said Denise Hopkins, co-president of the Foundation board, in a press release. “And we are delighted to give a portion of the funds raised to Bailey Gatzert Elementary School in Seattle, where there are significantly fewer community resources.”

Money raised will go to helping the district deal with the budget deficit for next year, as well as working toward implementing the 2020 vision throughout the schools. The foundation, which pledges to raise approximately $600,000 for the district each year, had around $200,000 left to fill in the 2008-2009 pledge. Funds raised beyond that amount go toward next year’s gift to the district.

“This year, we had an extra challenge with the down economy and the sharp budget cuts from Olympia,” said Penny Yantis, MISF executive director. “Our supporters responded tremendously during these tough times, helping us weather the storm while providing a path for an even greater future for our students, staff and community.”

For more information about the Mercer Island Schools Foundation, visit www.mercerislandschoolsfoundation.com or call MISF at (206) 275-2550.