Board weighs fewer, larger fundraisers after Bonnaroo cancellations and equity concerns
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Summary
Principals told the board they are tired of frequent small fundraisers; staff proposed fewer, larger events but warned that cutting too many fundraisers could reduce programming. The board asked staff to analyze fundraising frequency, per-program costs and policy limits (Policy 2.601).
Speaker 3 presented principal feedback that schools run many fundraisers each year (elementary schools often 7—13 events), that repeating the same local businesses for solicitations fatigues the community, and that the cancellation of Bonnaroo reduced a major annual revenue source this year. Staff suggested focusing on "bigger, smarter" fundraisers rather than many small events to reduce community fatigue while maximizing revenue.
Board members debated where fundraising should supplement programming versus where the district should cover basic necessities. Speaker 10 cited Policy 2.601, which states fundraising shall supplement established school programs and not replace board responsibilities. Some members said booster and parent fundraising currently covers significant costs for athletics and activities (examples cited: uniform, field maintenance, travel), raising equity questions.
Staff proposed compiling a detailed list of fundraising frequency, costs and per-player program costs to return to the board; members also discussed pursuing state-level exemptions to allow some gaming/raffle-style fundraisers, which require advance approval.