FUNDING FACTS AND FAQ’S
How does ESF’s funding affect my child and his/her school?
ESF funds in whole or in part (through cost sharing with the district and/or with parents) resources and programs in the areas of science, computer technology, foreign language, libraries, music and athletics. Without private funding through ESF, these programs outside of the standard curriculum would be eliminated. ESF strives for equality amongst all of the district school configurations (K-3, 4-6, and 7-8).
How is the state budget crisis affecting the Eureka School district and ESF?
As every Californian knows, the budget crisis is very serious and still unsettled as to its effects on state funding for education now and in the future. EUSD has identified a $3.4 million shortfall in funding over the next three years. The district has asked ESF to attempt to significantly increase fundraising results over the next three years – up to more than $600,000 annually (over 30% more than it has in past years) – or else risk cuts to essential enrichment programs.
What if the budget situation worsens for our district over the next few years?
The bottom line is that continued budget cuts will result in a reduction in quality of education for our children unless we in the community can partner to privately backfill the deficit through our own resources. ESF is working collaboratively with the district and giving full consideration to the district’s needs. We will continue to proactively communicate with parents regarding additional funding needs. ESF is committed to funding in the best interest of our children and our teachers at all school sites.
What other funding options are available aside from just writing one large check now?
We truly understand the economic difficulties many are facing in our community. Families can donate at each school site, make a one-time or recurring monthly online donation and make it part of your monthly budget! Sign up online for a recurring payment in any amount or consider what a dollar a day would mean for your family to have well-educated children. For families, particularly those with more than one school-age child, who can afford more than $30/month, think of the impact you can make by helping eliminate the risk of program cuts entirely with a larger donation.
Parent and community financial support are essential to provide the teachers and resources necessary to adequately educate our children. Our students deserve 100% participation from district families at whatever donation level your family can support.
What if I donate now through the Annual Giving Campaign on a monthly plan and my financial circumstances change? Do I have flexibility in the amount I give each month or cancel my contribution?
In these very challenging economic times, we understand that hardships are occurring in most households. You will always have the option to discontinue your monthly contribution to ESF. Please go to the “Donate Now” webpage to follow the online steps to discontinue your monthly contribution.
Should I donate to both ESF and my school’s PTC? Why?
Yes. Please try to donate to both organizations because they fund different programs. ESF was created to fund vital enrichment programs district wide; these programs touch every child in our district. Your school’s PTC fundraises and pays for site-specific needs that vary school by school. Together, both organizations strive to meet the needs of each child, district wide through ESF and school site specifically through your PTC.
I am not happy with some of the decisions that the district or my child’s teacher makes. Why should I give to ESF?
ESF is a parent organization, run by parents for our kids. Sometimes when parents feel frustrated in their attempts to effect change over something in the district, they exert the only power they feel they have – the power to either donate or not donate to ESF. By not donating to ESF, they are potentially depriving their child of programs that are critical to providing a well-rounded education for our kids. Concerns from parents about the district or individual schools should be addressed through the proper channels (public forum at school board meetings, meetings with the principal or site council meetings) where input and feedback can be heard and responded to. ESF has no control over school site-specific issues.
I don’t know what goes on at ESF. Are board meetings open to the public?
Yes! The ESF board typically meets on the second Wednesday of each month at the District Office. All are welcome. Please look under Meeting Minutes and Board of Directors to get information on all of our past meetings, as well as a current board roster.
How does the ESF board represent me?
There are representatives from all schools on the board. Board members are encouraged to bring input and issues/questions from their schools relating to ESF to board meetings for discussion. One of the most important jobs ESF Board Members have is to represent the parents’ interests and concerns to the district.
Who has access to my contribution history?
The Annual Giving Campaign leadership team has access to individual donor information. We do not publish specific contribution amounts unless we receive written authorization from the individual contributor.
What do other Foundations suggest as donation amounts for their annual giving campaign? Is “a dollar-a-day” ($365/year) a comparable donation amount?
Other excellent California schools districts maintain their high quality by use of school foundations such as ESF. Here are some comparable districts and their suggested donation amounts:
- Moraga - $500 per child
- Los Gatos - $600 per child
- Los Altos - $800 per child
- Saratoga - $700 (1 child); $1400 (2 children); $1700 (3 children); $2000 (4+ children)
- Hillsborough - $1200(1 child); $1800 (2 children) $2500 (3 children)
- Davis - $365 per child
Can I donate items other than cash? Stocks, bonds, real estate and autos?
Yes. In fact, donating appreciated stocks can be a tax-savvy way to make your donation. To find out more ways to give, check the “Tax Savings through Donating” webpage.
How is company matching handled?
Many corporations offer matching donation programs. Check this website for employers who provide matching grants www.wfdd.org/matching.htm. If your company matches personal contributions to charitable organizations, you may be able to double your contribution by simply requesting a matching donation from your company. You must initiate the matching contribution by requesting and completing a special form. Forms are typically available through your company HR department or on your company web site. Please send it onto to us and make your donation go even farther!