Q:  Why is PTA so focused on fundraising?

A:  Fundraising to improve schools is one of the two main activities of every school's PTA.  The main goal is to engage parents in their kids' education.  Without PTA funds, many programs that make Cragmont a great school would not be possible.

Q:  Seems like we're doing a lot more fundraising this year -- why can't we just do fundraising the way we did it in the past?

A:  We rely on our annual giving campaign to provide 2/3 of our total PTA budget.  In past years, about 80% of the revenue came from less than 10% of Cragmont families.  Relying on less than 20 families for the bulk of our fundraising is not sustainable.  There is strong need to encourage all Cragmont families to participate, even if the participation is via small donations.  This will help to build the community we desire at Cragmont and allow us all to participate and share the load.

Q:  Why can't PTA handle its expenses by just cutting back?

A:  A considerable share of the programs we fund consist of salaries, for which we are committed over the course of a year or more.  But in the long term, cutting expenses may need to happen. In the next few months, we all have the opportunity to re-evaluate our PTA budget and suggest cuts when we draft next year's budget.

Q: What does PTA fundraising support?

A: PTA funds goes towards AmeriCorps staff, the garden, computers in the classroom, parent volunteer coordinators, African-American celebration, Latino celebration, art supplies, Reading Railroad, translation services, child care during parent evening events, and more.

Q: What does PTA fundraising NOT fund?

A: PTA does not fund after-school care, teacher salaries, schools facilities maintenance.

Q:  This is a tough year for our family, and we can't give this year.

A: This is a hard year for many of us.  We are only asking for you to give the amount that feels right for your family. 

Q:  Why am I being asked to give to the annual campaign when I have already given in other ways?

A: The PTA's goal is to give parents many varied ways to support Cragmont: time, goods, services, skills, and money.  Some parents do not have time to volunteer; giving to the annual campaign may be their primary way to support the school.  Many parents give  their time and make annual campaign contributions.  Ideally, each family gives in each of the ways they are able to.  The annual campaign funds over half of the PTA budget, and this cash is critical to pay for things that aren't covered by other school funding sources, in-kind donations, or volunteers.

Q:  Who are the fundraising committee?

A: The fundraising committee are a group of ten parents who volunteer their time to raise money to improve the lives of children, parents and teachers at Cragmont.

Q:  Don’t you think we could do a better job with fundraising at our school?

A:  Great! If you have ideas, we’d love you to join us.  The fundraising committee is always open for new members.