At my child's JKLM school, over 70% of families have given money to the school. No idea how much but still think 70% supporting the school says something.

Anonymous wrote:Wow. Private mom here. I did not know the publics even cost any money. That AND my tax dollars and all the wrapping paper and cookie dough I buy from the neighbor kids. But I guess if it's completely voluntary... But where does the $ go?

It does not cost money, they fundraise to do things beyond the minimum. Why does that surprise you, I am sure your private raises money in addition to tuition.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Parent at both public and private.

I don't know anyone who belongs to country clubs or participates in regattas.

Also both public and private. I know people who belong to country clubs and participate in regattas. But they're public school parents!

We're in private school and yes, many families belong to country clubs. However, I know many public and parochial school parents who belong to country clubs too. Unfortunately, it's not an option for us. If we weren't paying $60K/year in tuition, it might be.

I was surprised at the amounts that the WofTP parents contribute too. But then one parent explained to me that the funding is not used to "get ahead" of the other EofTP DCPS schools, but instead it allows them to basically keep up with the lower SES schools that get federal funds for computers/enrichment/etc. Kind of put things in a new light for me.

Good lord. We gave a few hundred to our east of the park elementary last year and they acted like it was unheard of. I can't even imagine these amounts from everyone!!

Wow. Private mom here. I did not know the publics even cost any money. That AND my tax dollars and all the wrapping paper and cookie dough I buy from the neighbor kids. But I guess if it's completely voluntary... But where does the $ go?

Anonymous wrote:These amounts boggle the mind.

Why? Seriously. It is not that anyone has to pay, but if you can afford it why is it surprising. Especially in the early years parents are used to paying a whole lot more for childcare before school started and they are now at a school that can use some help to make the experience better for all. Why not do what you can? There is no general knowledge at my school who contributes what amount, I certainly have no idea.

We give the recommended amount but generally not to the big fundraisers (although we participate in community events that raise money)

These amounts boggle the mind.

Anonymous wrote:Are contributions to DCPS schools tax deductible? (Contributions to our charter are).

Contributions to PTAs that have obtained 501(c)3 status are. Usually that is where the contributions go.

Are contributions to DCPS schools tax deductible? (Contributions to our charter are).

my family is unsupportive of where the money goes for my school, therefore only pay out of pocket for things my kids' teachers need ($400+), then donate something for the auction or help with class project ($500+).


What does the above mean? As was explained to us by our principal (DCPS but not JKLM) 90 percent of a school's budget goes to salaries (totally necessary, no arguments) but all of the fundraising money funds things like materials beyond basics, classroom assistants, field trips. Basically almost anything you can think of that makes schools fun, nice places for your kids.

my family is unsupportive of where the money goes for my school, therefore only pay out of pocket for things my kids' teachers need ($400+), then donate something for the auction or help with class project ($500+).

Anonymous wrote:Does Mann do other fundraisers or is this it? I'd gladly for over $1500 right this instant if no one asks me for another dime or - the dreaded auction contribution for the rest of the year.

Can we make that deal?

Sadly, there are other fundraisers. There's the wrapping paper sale, which I actually enjoy as the paper is of high quality, not very expensive, and delivered to the school. There's also the class auction basket and family auction contributions, which do seem to take a lot of time.

Does Mann do other fundraisers or is this it? I'd gladly for over $1500 right this instant if no one asks me for another dime or - the dreaded auction contribution for the rest of the year.

Can we make that deal?

PTA dues for Mann are $10. Recommended (but not required) donation is $1500, $2,000 or any other amount.