Fundraising 

Why does the PTSA need money and what do you spend it on?

 

In many countries, schools receive enough public funding to cover enrichment, events, supplies, and community programs. In the U.S., public funding covers only the basics, so PTSA exists to ensure students still get a full, rich educational experience.

 

In some other countries, schools receive government funding for:

  • Arts programs

  • Field trips

  • Technology

  • Clubs

  • Community events

  • Teacher support

  • Classroom supplies

  • Emergency supplies

In the U.S., these are not guaranteed. District budgets cover:

  • Teachers

  • Buildings

  • Basic curriculum

Everything else is “extra”—and PTSA funds those extras.

 

PTSA fills the gaps — It pays for things families assume the school already provides

  • Assemblies and cultural events

  • Teacher grants for classroom supplies

  • Field trips

  • Art, music, and STEM enrichment

  • Playground improvements

  • Community‑building events (Fall Festival, STEM Night, Math Challenge)

  • Emergency support for families in need

Without PTSA, many of these simply don’t happen.

 

Your PTSA at Barton works hard to:

 

  • Provide supplies for classrooms

  • Fund programs that all students can access

  • Support families who need financial help

  • Ensure every child gets the same experiences regardless of income

 

How much does it cost per student?

 

Our programming costs roughly $175/student.  We hope families who are able, will consider donating $175 and if not, that is just fine, you can also consider having your child sell 15 car wash tickets in the fall and gather donations for Fun Run in the spring.

 

We are also working towards the Lake Washington PTSA Goal of getting 350 members for this coming year. Get your membership today!

 

Fundraising Philosophy

 

Our fundraising philosophy has ebbed and flowed over the years. We used to try only two fundraisers, the Bobcat Fund in the fall and the Fun Run in May. Our community has changed over the years and this format is no longer meeting the needs to pay for the critical items above. This year we will be adding a few different types of fundraisers to the mix.  If you prefer donating cash in a one time lump sum (and add in any corporate matching) that is great! If you would like your child to experience some entrepreneural spirit and have them participate in our Car Wash sales in October and the Fun Run in spring, those are two other great ways to give.

 

 

Any amount of time or money your family can donate is tremendously appreciated.  

 

We have a few other ways we raise money throughout the year so these are a few more ways to get involved:

 

  • Eating out on Spirit Nights (Eats and Treats)
  • Buying Spirit Gear - PTSA receives 10% of sales
  • Donating online
  • Saving Box Tops for Education
  • Shopping at certain local and national retailers
  • Participating in Corporate Matching - especially when you volunteer hours and the company matches funds.

 

Thanks for all you do to make our school great!