August 2011 Charger Fund Update
As we begin to turn our attention to planning for next year, it is a good to time to take a look at what we have accomplished for our students this year. The answer is-- lots! This school year, we have funded 14 teacher sections (this enables us to reduce class sizes) and added new technology at all grade levels. This is very significant. It is only through the financial support from our parent community that any of this is possible. Here’s a quick look at how funds were used this year:
|
Class Size Reduction 2010-11 School Year |
Actual (With Class Size Reduction) |
Without Class Size Reduction |
Technology Purchases 2010-11 School Year |
|
6th Grade Core (3 periods) |
29 |
35 |
• Document cameras • SMART Boards |
|
6th Grade Math |
29 |
35 |
• Mobile Laptops |
|
7th Grade English & History |
29 |
35 |
• Big Screen and Document Camera (Art) |
|
7th Grade Math |
31 |
35 |
• Smart Pens |
|
8th Grade English |
28 |
34 |
• Desktops (Computer Lab) |
|
8th Grade History |
31 |
34 |
• Software (All Departments) |
|
8th Grade Math |
28 |
34 |
• iPads • Pilot Project |
|
Science (all grades) |
29 |
34 |
• Flip Cameras |
As for funding sources—it comes from 3 primary areas. The first, parent donations, are your straight contributions. The second and third - eScrip and Corporate Match – are the “free money” areas that we really target. Here’s a look at this year (funds from eScrip and Corporate Match are still coming in):
Parent Donations (75% participation): $220K
eScrip: $25K -$30K
Corporate Match: $25K-$35K
Like you, I dread writing the big check each year…but when I see these results I know it has been money well spent…especially when I compare it to how much I invest in sports and other activities. I like that my $395 contribution is working all year.
Talk to your friends at other schools in the district or in the state. You’ll be amazed at the big swings in class sizes and technology. This is because at the middle school level these areas are self-funded—each school is on their own. I appreciate that my child attends a school where families are willing to donate, shop at stores that support our school, and check with their employers about matching funds . As the saying goes, if everyone contributes a little, we can achieve a lot!
Join Us!
The Charger Fund Board is made up of parents, staff, and our principal, Chris George. It is a great way to connect with the school. Our next meeting is November 8, 2011 at 9:30 in the library. We are seeking new board members for the upcoming year to help on the matching funds committee. Come check out a meeting and see if this is for you! Contact Shelley Clark with questions.
