Frequently Asked Questions

School Funding, Charter Schools & Fundraising

What kind of funding do public schools receive?

How does funding for public schools in California compare to funding in other states?

If public charter schools get state money, why do we need to fundraise?

Do families at other public schools have to do this level of fundraising?

Which WCS programs are supported by fundraising?

What is the WAVE fundraising goal for WCS 2007-2008 school year?

What other fundraisers will WCS do this year?

What organizations within WCS play a role in fundraising and allocating the funds that are raised?

How can I be involved in how funds are spent?

What kind of funding do public schools receive?
Public schools receive funding based on average daily student attendance (ADA). Schools do not receive funding for a student who is absent from school for any reason. Public schools also receive money from school bonds approved by voters and from school districts, which allocate funds for facilities and other school needs.

How does funding for public schools in California compare to funding in other states?
California’s per-pupil spending has been reported as low as 45th in the nation, with approximately $5550 per year in funding for each elementary school student.

If public charter schools get state money, why do we need to fundraise?
Because we want more for our school than the state standards. State funding is based on the basic educational experience required by the state Education Code. Westlake Charter School was created to provide much more for our children. We strive to provide a challenging and innovative curriculum, additional enrichment programs, qualified and fulfilled teachers and a safe and inspiring campus. These additional programs must be funded by donations, grants or other sources.

Do families at other public schools have to do this level of fundraising?
Parents at public schools typically sell candy bars, hold bake sales, car washes and other types of fundraisers and are asked to pay for or raise money for field trips and other programs beyond the required state programs. Many public school teachers also pay for school supplies out of their own pockets. At WCS we believe providing our teachers with the supplies they need helps teachers focus on students and helps retain the quality teachers we have. At private K-8 schools, families are required to pay tuition ranging from $3,000-$13,000 per year, pay fees for trips or other extra programs, and it is not uncommon for private school families to still participate in additional fundraising.

Which WCS programs are supported by fundraising?
The WCS charter includes the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), which gives children a global perspective, using a thematic approach that teaches fundamentals while studying a theme, subject or concept. The school also provides specialty teachers in Spanish, art, and physical education. These are not often found in regular public schools, but if offered at all, are added to the classroom teacher’s duties. In addition, we help support a garden, Mac computers in classrooms and the computer lab and classroom supplies.

What is the WAVE fundraising goal for WCS 2007-2008 school year?
The WAVE fundraising team has set a goal of $300,000 for the 2007-2008 school year.  This amount was determined after careful analysis of our current budget and our future needs. WCS’s financial advisor confirmed that $300,000 in fundraising is an appropriate goal for us. All charter schools must raise a large amount of additional funds to be successful.  The My School Matters annual fund drive goal is for families at WCS to collectively raise a total of $175,000 toward the $300,000 goal. Other fundraisers and donations will bring in the rest of the money.

What other fundraisers will WCS do this year?
In addition to the My School Matters annual fund drive, WCS Fundraising Committee is planning a golf tournament, a silent auction, a trip raffle, and various smaller fundraisers to meet our goal.

What organizations within WCS play a role in fundraising and allocating the funds that are raised?
The W.A.V.E. Foundation, made up of the school’s parents, is a non-profit organization for the purpose of supporting WCS through fundraising and parent participation.  The W.A.V.E. (Westlake Association of Volunteer Explorers) works closely with the WCS Board and Administration to ensure the school’s mission, goals and objectives are met each year.

The Fundraising Team of the W.A.V.E. Foundation is made up of parent volunteers that outline an annual fundraising strategy and coordinate fundraisers with help from other parent volunteers.  All proceeds from fundraising go to the W.A.V.E. Foundation, where at least 85% must go directly to WCS to support its innovative programs, teachers, and classrooms and campus.

How can I be involved in how funds are spent?
All parents are considered members of the W.A.V.E. Foundation and are encouraged to attend meetings, hear the principal’s report on how funds are spent and vote. You can become a member of the Fundraising Committee or any of the event committees that plan the fundraisers. You can also attend school board meetings or run for a seat on the school board during the published elections. You can also participate in Town Hall meetings and stay in touch with Principal Christine Smith, who works closely with parents to set priorities for WCS.

 

Back to Westlake Charter School Home Page