PTSA Budget

2023-2024 PTSA Budget Breakdown

The initial 2023-24 budget was presented and approved at the June 2023 General Membership meeting. In September, a special membership meeting was held to review proposed changes to the budget in order to secure additional funding to approve the final cost of the small playground structure which was installed at the beginning of the school year! Here is where we currently stand with income and expenses within our Approved 2023-24 Budget.

2022-2023 PTSA Budget Breakdown

October 2022 Update:  We got to meet in person!  The 2022-2023 proposed budget was voted and approved during the October General Membership Meeting.  The executive board asked to increase the Staff Appreciation expense line to accommodate doing Staff Appreciation gifts for the Riverview Disctrict staff as well as gifts for appreciation days like custodian day, admin day and nurse appreciation day.  The General Membership voted and approved the increase.  As the year continues, the executive board will continue to review the budget and propose any changes at the next General Membership meeting.

An initial SW PTSA Budget for 2022-2023 school year was approved at the June General Membership Meeting.  As the school year gets going, we will consistently review the budget as COVID restrictions change to allow for more events to take place.  The executive board will meet and discuss any changes that need to happen.  Any proposed changes will be presented and voted on during our first General Membership meeting in October 2022.  If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out anytime tres@stillwaterptsa.org.  Approved Budget 2022-2023

2021-2022 PTSA Budget Breakdown

June 2022 Update:  The 2021-2022 proposed budget was voted and approved during the June General Membership meeting.  Our school year is almost over and although COVID threw a lot of changes our way, we were able to fundraise considerably more than anticipated and were able to continue saving toward the small playground upgrade!  We asked for approval to save an additional $29,000 which would bring our playground savings total to $34,000, and it was approved!!!  Things are getting moving toward searching for the perfect upgrade to the small playground so stay tuned for updates!  The new 2022-2023 Proposed Budget was also reviewed and approved during the meeting. NOTE: when looking through this budget, please note that the approved Playground savings is NOT included in this report.  Approved Budget – June 2022

April 2022 Update: The 2021-2022 proposed budget update was voted and approved during the April General Membership meeting.  Our school year is starting to wrap up and the PTSA Executive board analyzed the budget without many changes.  A few line items were asked to be removed for ease of reading and some expenses were asked to be decreased due to events changing due to COVID restrictions.  An increase in proposed budget income for the Hawk Walk to make it $8,000.00 total and an increase in proposed budget expense to $1,200.00 total to accommodate buying all students pedometers for the actual Hawk Walk was asked for.  The budget proposal was approved.

January 2022 Update: The 2021-2022 proposed budget update was voted and approved during the January General Membership meeting.  With half the school year complete and after a VERY successful Hop-A-Thon, the PTSA executive board discussed plan vs actual across all line items and were able to up the budget on some items including giving an additional $100.00 to 26.5 classrooms, as well as added back funds to several line items.  One of the more exciting things the PTSA Executive board asked the general membership for was adding an additional $10,000.00 to Teacher and School grants to help upgrade the gym PA system as well as helping with more grants!  The budget proposal was approved.

September 2021 Update: The 2021-2022 proposed budget update was voted and approved during our first General Membership meeting in September 2021.  Many events have already been cancelled due to COVID which meant the budget needed to be adjusted as those funds (both income and expense) were no longer needed.  The executive board asked for an increase in classroom gifts to include SPED and the counselor for a total of 26.5 classrooms at $50.00 each, which came to a total of $1,325.00.  As the year continues, the executive board will monitor the budget and propose any changes that may need to happen due to COVID and fundraising.  Any proposed changes will be presented and voted on at our next general meeting if needed.  When looking at the approved budget, please keep in mind the ending total includes $5,000.00 towards replacing the small playground that was previously voted and approved. Approved Budget – September 2021

From Chelsea Krause (treasurer): The 2021-2022 Approved Budget was voted on and approved during our final membership meeting in June 2021.  As the school year gets going, we will need to adjust our plans due to the COVID restrictions.  The executive board will meet at our first board meeting and discuss any changes that need to happen.  Any proposed changes will be presented and voted on at our first general membership meeting in September 2021.  If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out anytime tres@stillwaterptsa.org.

2020-2021 PTSA Budget Breakdown

June 2021 Update:  The 2020-2021 budget was updated at the June general membership meeting.  Our school year is almost finished and even though COVID threw a lot of changes our way, we were able to fundraise enough (through things like Brown Bear, Krispy Kreme and general fund donations) to start saving to update the small playground!  We asked for approval at the June General membership meeting and it as approved to save $5,000.00 towards replacing the small playground!  The final budget was approved at the June Membership meeting. The new proposed Budget for 2021-2022 school year was also voted and approved at the June Membership meeting.  Updated 2020-2021 Budget Report – June 2021 

April 2021 Update:  The 2020-2021 budget was updated at the April general membership meeting. Our school year is starting to wrap up, the PTSA again analyzed plan vs actual across all line items and adjusted the budget as needed.  Thanks to some fun fundraisers (like Brown Bear and Krispy Kreme) we asked approval to give $3,109.58 for Teacher and School Grants!   The budget proposal was approved.  One final review of the budget will be done and proposed at the June general membership meeting.  Updated 2020-2021 Budget Report – Approved April 2021

February 2021 Update: The 2020-2021 budget was updated at the February general membership meeting. With half the school year complete, the PTSA analyzed plan vs actual across all line items and adjusted the budget as needed. In addition, we asked for approval from the membership to move the $4,089.99 we had in playground savings to the playground equipment line item for installation expenses. The new playground is set to be installed on March 13th and the PTSA is responsible for cement, auger rental, food for volunteers and OT for district staff. The budget proposal was approved. Updated 2020-2021 Budget Report – Approved February 2021

October 2020 Update: The 2020-2021 budget that was approved at the June general membership meeting was based off an assumption that we would be in a hybrid school model this fall. When we started the year in a remote setting, the budget had to be slashed to meet the constraints of not having a fall fundraiser (on top of not having our spring 2020 fundraiser). The final budget that was presented and approved at the September 2020 General Membership meeting is a very fluid plan. If we do indeed go back to a hybrid model that allows for more in person fundraising, the budget can be adjusted.

An initial SW PTSA Budget for 2020-2021 was approved at the June 17th General Membership Meeting. The budget was prepared without knowing what school would look like for 2020-2021. With school starting in a remote setting, the SW PTSA Board of Directors will be reconvening to adjust the budget plans. More information coming soon.

2019-2020 PTSA Budget Breakdown

April 2020 Update: At the April general membership meeting we asked for 1 change to the 2019-2020 Budget. Based on the fundraising efforts of prior years, we had $42,000 earmarked for playground savings. The district approved the playground design that won the popular vote back at the start of the school year (see picture below), and the final cost is $37,892.16. At the general meeting we asked for this final cost to be moved from playground savings to playground equipment. Currently the install is planned for the summer of 2020 with a team of volunteers being supervised by an employee from the playground equipment company. Stay tuned for updates and how to join the team of volunteers.

December 2019 Update: At the December general membership meeting we asked for 6 changes to the budget.

  • Communication Supplies – budgeted expense went from $150 to $425 to account for the die cuts Stillwater asked us to purchase this year.
  • Spring Art Gala – this is a NEW event that was approved via a planning form from Lindsey Tolson. Instead of a fall Reflections gala that is only for students who enter Reflections, there will be a Spring Art Gala encompassing ALL art at Stillwater (art docent, Reflections, choir, art class). A budgeted income of $100 and a budgeted expense of $500 was added as a placeholder until the planning committee meets to finalize their plans in 2020.
  • SAS Cart – budgeted expense went from $400 to $450 per a request from the lead volunteer.
  • 5th Grade Graduation – this is a NEW event that was approved via a planning form from Lindsey Tolson. Instead of the 5th graders “graduating” during the last day of school assembly, they will now have their own graduation ceremony, similar to what the kindergartners have. Cherry Valley and Carnation Elementary both have a separate 5th Grade Graduation. Date is still TBD but a budgeted expense of $500 was added so that the PTSA can purchase decorations and treats.
  • Community Support – the budgeted expense went from $50 to $300 to allow Stillwater PTSA the ability to co-sponsor a community wide screening of the movie Screenagers.
  • Winter Carnival – the budgeted income went from $1,500 to $1,000 to make it a break even event per the event leads.

From Rachel DelCarmen (Treasurer): The 2019-2020 Stillwater PTSA Budget is complete and was approved by our PTSA membership on June 11, 2019. As the school year gets going we just want to give you a quick look at all that’s included in the budget for the year. I’ll outline a couple of highlights below but as always if you have questions or are interested in more details please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at tres@stillwaterptsa.org.

Highlights of our 2019-2020 Budget:
  • The Classroom Gifts budget has been adjusted up from previous years to reflect our additional classrooms
  • The Field Trip stipend has been increased and is now collected into one line item so the school has the opportunity to support field trips in the best possible way
  • A new winter carnival is being planned
  • We added $500 to help with the cost of the 5th grade end of year party! The 5th grade end of year party is planned by a group of parents in coordination with the school and 5th grade teachers, it is not planned by the PTSA.
  • Plus a lot of the events and programs we’ve known and loved (art docent, Valentine’s Day Bingo, Hop-A-Thon, Specialist Enrichment, Moms and Me and more!)

2018-2019 PTSA Budget Breakdown

Hello Stillwater Families!

As we start thinking about starting this new school year I wanted to provide a short financial snapshot of what we accomplished as a community last year!
We raised a tremendous amount of money during the 2018-2019 school year and here’s a few awesome examples of what we were able to do for our school:
  • $23,000 added to our new playground savings
  • $19,031.48 contributed directly to teachers and staff in our grants program
  • $4,500 contributed to help with field trips
  • $5,700 for teachers and specialists to contribute to their classrooms
  • Over $4,000 spent on arts education at Stillwater

In addition, we hosted a number of community events for Stillwater families. And supported a number of fun and educational opportunities for our community. I’m in awe how this group comes together to provide for our students! I can’t wait to see what we accomplish this year. If you have any questions about the PTSA finances please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at tres@stillwaterptsa.org.

April 2019 Update:

PTSA Budget Approved April 2019

On April 2, 2019 the General Membership of the Stillwater PTSA approved the recommended updates to the 2018-2019 budget. The changes include the following:

  • Reducing the assembly project to current spending ($505.85) since no additional assemblies are scheduled.
  • Expense and Income for Duvall Days Booth, Running of the Balls, Restaurants Give Back and Concession Cart were lowered to $0 due to decisions made not to pursue these fundraising efforts.
  • Increasing the Playground Savings Expense to $18,000 based on projected earning and saving through the end of the year and due to OUTSTANDING fundraising results for Hawk Walk and Hop-A-Thon!
  • Increasing the Teacher and School Grant Expense by an additional $10,000 also due to great fundraising results throughout the year!!

March 2019 Update:

At our March 5th meeting the board voted and approved to update the 2018-2019 budget. The Assemblies budget was reduced by $200 and that same amount was added to a new line item to support the Green Team’s Earth Day efforts. Our standing rules allows this change as the bottom line for the year ending budget did not change and the amount moved was less than $500.

December 2018 Update:

During the General Membership Meeting there were 6 updates voted on and approved.

  • For Valentine’s Day Bingo the game budget income was increased by $100 and the budgeted expense was increased by $200 to accommodate more accurate past numbers.
  • For the PE Enrichment budget expense we have reduced the budget to $1000. It was decided not to pursue the Drum Fit program which had been budgeted for so we reduced the budget to the $1000 already granted to PE Enrichment.
  • A new Art Enrichment line item has been added with a budget expense of $400 to support our art program as we do the other specialists.
  • The Mascot expense line item was reduced $100 to reflect that we are not able to dry clean the costume. Thank you Shelly for doing the hard work and hand washing the costume!
  • The Corporate matching expense budget was reduced by $25 to reflect an incentive program that happens at the beginning of the fiscal year.
  • An additional line item was added for a National PTSA grant that we received from a grant proposal written by one of our parents.

October 2018 Update:

The school asked for an increase to the PBIS line item from $500 to $816 to cover the cost of the bracelets that are used as incentives for hawk feathers. The school also chose not to pursue the DrumFit curriculum for PE that was approved last year. There was $3,400 set aside in the budget to pay for the program. As a result, the board of directors voted to move $316 from PE Enrichment to PBIS at their October 9th board meeting. The board of directors, per the standing rules, have authority to move up to $500 without a general membership vote.

September 2018 Update:

The 2018-2019 Stillwater PTSA Budget was approved at the June 12th 2018 General Membership Meeting. As you can see below under the Final Update for 2017-2018, we have started the year with just over $10,000 in our bank account. This was done intentionally to allow us to operate at the start of the school year before our first fundraiser in November. When you look at the approved budget, keep in mind that the final net also includes the $19,000 playground savings from 2017-2018.


2017-2018 PTSA Budget Breakdown

Final Update-July 2018:

It was a record breaking year for Stillwater PTSA, our community has a lot to be proud of. Our total income for the year was $91,936.53 and our total expenses were $73,402.62. In addition to those expenses spent, we also assigned $19,000 to a Playground Savings line item on our budget!!!! Our bank account balance at the end of the year was $29,010.93. With $19,000 of that being saved for the playground, we ended at $10,010.93. We had a goal to end at $10,000 to support our beginning of the year expenses in 2018-2019 that occur before our first fundraiser in November. For a breakdown of all expenses click here. To see our final operating budget for 2017-2018, click here.

Updates approved at March 13, 2018 General Meeting

Increase planned expense for All Arts Day to $2,500 to pay for 5th Grade Metal Hawks project (planning form submission)

Decrease planned income for Concessions Cart to $125

Decrease planned expense for Concessions Cart to $100

Increase planned expense for Property Enhancements to $1,200 for Water Bottle Drinking Fountain & Little Free Library (planning form submissions)

Increase planned expense for Playground Equipment to $10,500 – this money will not be spent this year but will be assigned to this line item to be saved for a future year to replace the large playground structure

Increase planned expense for Stillwater Evening Event to $425

Increase planned expense for Teacher & School Grants to $15,167.93 to allow for a second grant season this spring

Increase planned expense for Membership Campaign Drive to $400

Decrease planned expense for Stillwater Evening Event Hospitality to $0

Decrease planned income for Duvall Days Booth to $0

Decrease planned expense for Duvall Days Booth to $250

Increase planned income for Running of the Balls to $7,500

Increase planned expense for Running of the Balls to $1,475

Updates approved at December 5, 2017 General Meeting

Increase planned expense for assemblies to $1,530 to pay for STEAM Museum

Increase planned expense for field day to $1,000

Increase Restaurants Give Back planned income to $1,500 and planned expense to $100

Increase Running of the Balls expense to $1,250

Updated September 2017

2017 – 2018 PTSA Budget Expense Plan

Funds directly to Stillwater for: All Arts Day, Assemblies, Classroom Gifts, Field Day, Field Trip Stipends for all Grades, Library, Music and PE Enrichment funds, REF Auction Basket, Stillwater Evening Event, Safety Patrol & Student Council Recognition, Random Acts of Kindness Club, Girls on the Run Club, Property Enhancements and Teacher/Staff Grants – $22,225

Funds to support our Art Docent Program, Reflections, Talent Show and the Dance Guy – $6,650

Scholarships for local high school students – $900

Volunteer Appreciation and Membership Supplies/Hospitality – $1,975

Staff Appreciation, Conference Week Dinner and Staff Luncheon – $1,275

Special Outreach Programs: Dads and Donuts, Mom and Me & Workshop on Child Safety – $1,525

Legislative Assembly, Campaign Support, PTSA Convention and Awards – $2,225

Expenses related to running a corporation: Photocopies, Plaque Engraving, Post Office Box, Supplies, Website, Bank Charges, Checks/Deposit Slips, Insurance, Legal Registration, Accountant Gift, Square Fees and Bookkeeping Software – $4,668

Misc Expenses: President Discretionary Fund, School Board Recognition, Nuts & Bolts – $225

Expense for Fundraising: Hop-a-Thon, Hawk Walk, Silent Auction, Running of the Balls and Retail Funds – $3,625

Expenses for break-even events and actives (they pay for themselves): Yearbook, Spiritwear, Popcorn, Back to School BBQ, Spring Dance, Winter Craft Night, Game Night & Book Exchange, Valentine’s Bingo, Pottery Paint Nights, Petty Cash, Concessions Cart, Directory and Membership Dues – $26,855

TOTAL Budget Expense Plan – $72,148

2017 – 2018 PTSA Budget Income Plan

Income from activities that pay for themselves – $31,320

Fundraising income, scholarship donations and special outreach programs: Hop-a-Thon, Hawk Walk, Silent Auction, Restaurants Give Back, Running of the Balls and Retail Funds and Corporate Matching – $38,455

TOTAL Budget Income Plan – $58,866

Net Budget Plan: -$2,373

Bank Balance at Start of School Year: $10,477.02 (We always plan to keep roughly $8,000 in the bank account at the end of each fiscal year since we do not fundraise at the start of the school year and need funds to operate within our budget. At the end of 2016, a few line items did better than projected, like Running of the Balls, leaving us with more than $8,000)

Difference between Bank Balance at Start of Year School Year and Net Budget Plan (what we plan to leave in our bank account at end of school year): $8,104.02


2016-2017 PTSA Budget Breakdown

2016-2017 Budget – Approved 031617

Budget updates after the June 8, 2017 General Membership Meeting

We had 1 change to the 2016-2017 budget that was proposed and passed at the June General Membership Meeting. It was approved to add $8,203.19 to the “Teacher and School Grants” line item so that a total of $14,203.19 can be awarded to Stillwater for the spring grant season.

Budget updates after the March 16, 2017 General Membership Meeting

We had 9 changes to the 2016-2017 budget that were proposed and passed at the March General Membership Meeting. By opening up the 2016-2017 Budget – Approved 031617 file above, you can see line items with changes highlighted in yellow.

1. The planned expense for the “Assembly” line item under President, was increased from $500 to $1,000 to pay for a motivational speaker. This change is the result of a Planning Form that was submitted by Mrs. Marchel to bring Gabe Murfitt, a motivational speaker to Stillwater.

2. The expense assigned to “STEM Night” (under President) and “STEM Night Treats” (under Vice President) were moved to Multicultural Night (under FACE). No change to bottom line, already existing funds were just moved within the budget.

3. The expense for the “Teacher and School Grants” line item under Vice President, was increased to $12,612.93 from $6,612.93. This allows us to open a second grant season for the Stillwater staff in the spring. The amount we are actually able to gift will be dependent upon the results of the Hawk Walk in May.

4. An expense of $1,040.42 was added to the “Robotics” line item under After School Classes so that the PTSA could purchase 4 expansion kits for the Lego Mindstorm kits purchased last year. These kits were required to start-up a Junior Robotics After School Enrichment Class, led by a parent volunteer.

5. A new line item was added under Art Docent for “Pottery Paint Night.” This is a new event in April where attendees can pre-order clay bisques to paint. The PTSA will then fire the painted clay pieces in the kiln. An income of $900 and an expense of $900 was assigned to this line item.

6. Two new line items were added under Fundraising, “Duvall Days Booth” and “Running of the Balls.” Stillwater Elementary PTSA will be sponsoring the Running of the Balls at Duvall Days this year, it was previously sponsored by Hillside Academy. For Running of the Balls, patrons purchase a numbered raffle ticket, the number on the ticket corresponds to a number on the ball. All of the balls are released on a hill at the same time, and the first one to cross the finish line wins a $500 cash prize. The money earned and spent at the Duvall Days Booth has to be recorded separately from the money earned and spent for the gambling portion (selling the raffle tickets), that is why there are two line items. An income of $750 and an expense of $750 was assigned to Duvall Days Booth, an income of $3,000 and an expense of $1,000 was assigned to Running of the Balls.

7. The “Hawk Walk” line item under Fundraising was adjusted to account for a $250 donation we received from the Irwin Group to pay for equipment we’ll use during the Hawk Walk itself. In addition, with the new Running of the Balls fundraising event described above, we reduced the overall goal for the Hawk Walk by $2,000.

8. The previous “Raffle” line item under Fundraising was broken up into “Raffle Ticket Sales” and “Raffle Donations” so that we could report gambling income separately from donations we received to purchase items for the raffle. No bottom line change to the budget as a result of this adjustment, we only moved existing funds around.

9. The expense plan for the “PTSA Property Enhancements” line item under Special Projects was increased by $200 to allow the PTSA to purchase additional storage needs for the newly revamped Lost and Found area at Stillwater.

Based on the budget approved at the September 22, 2016 General Membership Meeting

For the PTSA to be able to provide the same level of support to Stillwater this year and into next year, our total fundraising efforts has to hit a minimum of $34,035 as outlined in the budget numbers below. You can also reference the ‘Where Do My Funds Go’ handout above for a visual.

With approximately 450 students at Stillwater, each student needs to raise around $76 for us to hit our goal. Since every student at Stillwater would not be able to raise $76, the PTSA has to depend on fundraisers like the Hop-a-Thon and Hawk Walk to raise the majority of the funds needed ($24,000 of the $34,035) by motivating kids to call/visit relatives and family friends. Both are purely donation based fundraisers, we do not sell anything additional during these fundraisers. But we provide prizes and incentives for the students. Years ago, the PTSA listened to the families and went away with the candy, wrapping paper, entertainment book and cookie dough sales and switched to mostly donation based fundraising. Last year, after tweaking the processes from the prior year for these fundraisers and with the staff’s support, we BLEW our goals out of the water, raising over $30,000 between the Hawk Walk and Hop-a-Thon. By doing so we were able to up our school grants budget last year and purchase 3 new lunch tables for the school, a set of bleachers for the second field and upgrades for the smaller playground set.

So what can you do? Energize your students about participating in our two fundraisers for the year: the Hop-a-Thon in November and the Hawk Walk in May. The Dance Guy, field trips, art docent lessons, assemblies, playground upgrades, and field day are all items kids LOVE and all items that require PTSA funding! You can also help Stillwater fundraise by doing everyday things: clip Box Tops and Labels for Education off your home and grocery items, and shop at AmazonSmile instead of Amazon. Retail Funds, which encompasses those 3 things previously mentioned earned Stillwater PTSA $3,520.98 last year. If you can make a donation and you work for a company that does corporate matching, please make sure you submit your donation to your company for a match. Last year Stillwater PTSA earned $2,898.84 in corporate matching funds. And lastly, support the Raffle Baskets at Turkey Bingo in November and Silent Auction in the spring.

If you have any questions please reach out to Lindsey or Jen at president@stillwaterptsa.org.

2016-2017 PTSA Budget Expense Plan

September 2016

Funds directly to Stillwater for: All Arts Day, Assemblies, Classroom Gifts, Field Day, Field Trip Stipends for all Grades, Library, Music and PE Enrichment funds, REF Auction Basket, STEM Night, Safety Patrol Recognition, Random Acts of Kindness Club, Girls on the Run Club, Playground Equipment and Teacher/Staff Grants – $17,959.11

Funds to support our Art Docent Program, Reflections, Talent Show and the Dance Guy – $8,300

Scholarships for local high school students – $850

Volunteer Appreciation and Membership Supplies/Hospitality – $1,800

Staff Appreciation and Staff Luncheon – $950

Special Outreach Programs: Dads and Donuts, Mom and Me – $1,200

Legislative Assembly, PTSA Convention and Awards – $2,275

Expenses related to running a corporation: Photocopies, Plaque Engraving, Post Office Box, Supplies, Website, Bank Charges, Checks/Deposit Slips, Insurance, Legal Registration, Accountant Gift, and Bookkeeping Software – $4,356

Misc Expenses: President Discretionary Fund, PTSA Property Enhancements – $500

Expense for Fundraising: Hop-a-Thon, Hawk Walk, Silent Auction, Raffle Baskets and Retail Funds – $2,015

Expenses for break-even events and actives (they pay for themselves): Yearbook, Spiritwear, Popcorn, Back to School BBQ, Spring Dance, Turkey Bingo, Ice Cream Social & Book Exchange, Monster Mash Dance, Reptile Man, Valentine’s Bingo, Petty Cash, Directory and Membership Dues – $22,608

TOTAL Budget Expense Plan – $62,813

2016 – 2017 PTSA Budget Income Plan

Income from activities that pay for themselves – $24,831

Fundraising income, scholarship donations and special outreach programs: Hop-a-Thon, Hawk Walk, Silent Auction, Raffle Baskets and Retail Funds and Corporate Matching – $34,035

TOTAL Budget Income Plan – $58,866

Net Budget Plan: -$3,947 (difference can be covered by bank balance from prior years)


March 2016 Budget Update

The following are explanations for the budget changes that were voted on and approved at the March 17, 2016 general membership meeting.

Plant Sale & Hawk Walk: Our spring plant sale will not be able to happen this year. The nursery we have used in the past has closed its doors and we were unable to find a replacement. To compensate for this loss in budgeted income, we are going to increase our goal for the Hawk Walk to $10,000 from $8,000. Last year, the Hop-a-thon raised just over $8,000 and the Hawk Walk raised over $11,000. We had decided to swap the income goals for those 2 events for this year, because of the lack of 5th grade participation during spring fundraisers. We are confident that increasing the budgeted income to $10,000 from $8,000 for the Hawk Walk is a very reasonable, attainable goal. With your and your kids’ help we can do it! We also increased the budgeted expense when we sat down and calculated the actual expenses. The expenses are now budgeted at $800.

Kiln: We are starting to make progress on the kiln! The district has asked Mr. Madigan for $6,000 to start the process of the kiln installation. Several engineers will have to draw up the plans for the installation. The district also made it clear that we cannot have a parent donate their time to install the kiln. There are labor rules for what public schools can do in regards to bidding out jobs. They have to give everyone a fair chance to bid for the work. A parent can bid for the work, but cannot volunteer to do it for free.

Playground Equipment: Playground equipment is also moving forward! At the March general meeting we approved a budget of $8,507.31. This is the number we got from SiteLines Park and Playground Products to purchase 3 new pieces of equipment. This quote includes shipping and tax, but not installation. The 3 new pieces of equipment are a chin up bar, a 4′ rock wall, and a sky runner. These are the equipment pieces that won the majority vote between all the recess teachers. The district has approved all 3 pieces and have agreed to install them over the summer. We will be purchasing them in April 2016.

Campaign Support: We have also approved a $225 donation to the levy campaign fund. The Riverview Schools Committee requested this for the next levy vote in 2018.  Levy campaign donations will be primarily used to create campaign materials such as yard signs, flyers, and to otherwise encourage voters to approve the levy. Passing the levy is important, as funds from the levy are used to make-up shortfalls in state and federal funding, which do not cover the cost of offering the quality of education the Riverview School District wants to provide to the community.  The funds are used for critical items such as salaries for additional classroom teachers, specialists, and educational programs.

Teacher and School Grants: This year we had over $5,000 in grants turned in by teachers and educators. However, Stillwater administration denied some of them because the district was either already planning on funding the items or more research was needed. We were left with requests totaling $3,309.35. We approved the additional $309.35 over our $3,000 budget to provide the grants and immediately wrote the checks to the requestors.

Spring Kindergarten Social: Finally, this spring, we plan to partner with Stillwater to hold a Kindergarten Social for incoming 2016-2017 kindergartners. The school is not doing spring assessments this year for kindergartners, so they suggested a social. They thought it would be a good way to bring the kindergartners together in the spring, let them see Stillwater, and it would also give us the opportunity to have face time with the parents. We will also be able to talk about all things PTSA at Stillwater and pass out membership forms. The only cost we have to this is for snacks we are providing.

If you have any questions please reach out to Lindsey or Jen at president@stillwaterptsa.org.

2015-2016 PTSA Budget Expense Plan
March 2016 Update

Funds directly to Stillwater for: All Arts Day, Assemblies, Classroom Gifts, Field Day, Field Trip Stipends for all Grades, Library, Music and PE Enrichment funds, Playground Equipment, REF Auction Basket, STEM Night, Safety Patrol Recognition, School Board Recognition, Random Acts of Kindness Club, Girls on the Run Club and Teacher/Staff Grants – $23,871.66

Funds to support our Art Docent Program, Kiln, Reflections, Talent Show and the Dance Guy – $12,800

Scholarships for local high school students – $800

Volunteer Appreciation, Membership Supplies, Kinder Playdate, Kindergarten Social – $650

Staff Appreciation and Staff Luncheon – $950

Special Outreach Programs: Dads and Donuts, Moms and Me, Curriculum Night, Stillwater Family Help – $1,370

Legislative Assembly, Campaign Support, PTSA Convention, Awards – $2,350

Expenses related to running a corporation: Photocopies, Plaque Engraving, Post Office Box, Supplies, Website, Bank Charges, Checks/Deposit Slips, Insurance, Legal Registration, Accountant Gift, and Bookkeeping Software – $4,044

Misc Expenses: President Discretionary Fund, PTSA Property Enhancements – $200

Expense for Fundraising: Hop-a-Thon, Walk-a-Thon, Silent Auction, Corporate Matching, Raffle, and Retail Funds – $1,915

Expenses for break-even events and activities (they pay for themselves): Yearbook, Spiritwear, Back to School BBQ, the Dance, Family Fun Night (Bingo this year), Directory and Membership Dues – $16,680

TOTAL Budget Expense Plan – $65,630.66

2015-2016 PTSA Budget Expense Plan
March 2016 Update

Income from activities that pay for themselves and special outreach programs – $19,095

Fundraising income: Hop-a-Thon, Walk-a-Thon, Silent Auction, Raffle, Retails Funds and Corporate Matching – $31,000

TOTAL Budget Income Plan – $50,095

Net Budget Plan: $-15,535.66
Money in Bank (at start of year): $27,122.42

December 2015 Budget in Review

December 14, 2015

For us to be able to provide the same level of support to Stillwater next year, our total fundraising efforts has to hit a minimum of $33,930 as outlined in the budget numbers below. Last year during our fundraisers it was noted that we wanted to raise money for the PTSA, so that the PTSA could help fund a kiln and new playground equipment for Stillwater. You do not see that listed in the budget because the plans are not finalized. Currently Stillwater is working with the district to put together a kiln plan. It is not as simple as purchasing a kiln, there has to be a designated place at the school to put it with proper ventilation. So there will be building modification fees associated with the installation of the kiln. In addition, the PTSA is working with the recess teachers (and subsequently the kids) on new playground equipment requests, as well as some current pieces of equipment that need repair. Once both items have been thoroughly investigated and bottom line cost numbers associated with them, we will be able to add them to our budget. Those two items could also increase our fundraising goal for the year, but without a solid number to associate with the cost for both of them the budget will stay as is for now.

With approximately 450 students at Stillwater, each student needs to raise around $70 for us to hit our goal. There was some communication on social media regarding suggested fundraising tactics for the PTSA, such as, “write us a check for x amount and we will not ask you for money the rest of the year.” Since every student at Stillwater would not be able to raise $70, the PTSA has to depend on fundraisers like the Hop-a-Thon and Walk-a-Thon that motivate kids to call/visit relatives and family friends. Both are purely donation based fundraisers, we do not sell t-shirts or equipment during these fundraisers. But we provide prizes and incentives for the students. Years ago, the PTSA listened to the families and went away with the candy, wrapping paper, entertainment book and cookie dough sales and switched to donation based fundraising.

So what can you do? Energize your students about participating in our two fundraisers for the year: the Hop-a-Thon in November and the Walk-a-Thon in May. The Dance Guy, field trips, art docent lessons, assemblies, and field day are all items kids LOVE and all items that require PTSA funding! You can also help Stillwater fundraise by doing everyday things: clip Box Tops and Labels for Education off your home and grocery items, shop at AmazonSmile instead of Amazon and use your Target Red Card if you have one when you shop at Target (for both AmazonSmile and Target Red Card make sure Stillwater PTSA is designated as your charity). Retail Funds, which encompasses those 3 things I just talked about earned Stillwater PTSA $3,141.37 last year. If you can make a donation and you work for a company that does corporate matching, please make sure you submit your donation to your company for a match. Last year Stillwater PTSA earned $3,242.72 in corporate matching funds.

If you have any questions please reach out to Lindsey or Jen at president@stillwaterptsa.org.

2015-2016 PTSA Budget Expense Plan

Funds directly to Stillwater for: All Arts Day, Assemblies, Classroom Gifts, Field Day, Field Trip Stipends for all Grades, Library, Music and PE Enrichment funds, REF Auction Basket, Holiday Meal Help for Stillwater Families, STEM Night, Safety Patrol Recognition, Random Acts of Kindness Club, Girls on the Run Club and Teacher/Staff Grants – $15,275

Funds to support our Art Docent Program, Reflections, Talent Show and the Dance Guy – $6,800

Scholarships for local high school students – $850

Volunteer Appreciation and Membership Supplies/Hospitality – $600

Staff Appreciation and Staff Luncheon – $950

Special Outreach Programs: Dads and Donuts, Mom and Me – $1,000

Legislative Assembly, PTSA Convention and Awards – $2,125

Expenses related to running a corporation: Photocopies, Plaque Engraving, Post Office Box, Supplies, Website, Bank Charges, Checks/Deposit Slips, Insurance, Legal Registration, Accountant Gift, and Bookkeeping Software – $4,044

Misc Expenses: President Discretionary Fund, PTSA Property Enhancements – $200

Expense for Fundraising: Hop-a-Thon, Walk-a-Thon, Spring Fundraiser Plant Sale, and Retail Funds – $4,415

Expenses for break-even events and actives (they pay for themselves): Yearbook, Spiritwear, Raffle, Back to School BBQ, the Dance, Family Fun Night (Bingo this year), Directory and Membership Dues – $16,980

TOTAL Budget Expense Plan – $52,489

2015 – 2016 PTSA Budget Income Plan

Income from activities that pay for themselves and special outreach programs – $20,215

Fundraising income: Hop-a-Thon, Walk-a-Thon, Silent Auction, Penny Wars, Spring Fundraiser Plant Sale, Coca-Cola Grant, Retails Funds and Corporate Matching – $33,930

TOTAL Budget Income Plan – $54,145

Net Budget Plan: $456

 

2015-2016 PTSA Fundraising Strategy and Budget Review

September, 2015

For us to be able to provide the same level of support to Stillwater next year, our total fundraising efforts has to hit a minimum of $31,000 as outlined in the budget numbers below. Last year during our fundraisers it was noted that we wanted to raise money for the PTSA, so that the PTSA could help fund a kiln and new playground equipment for Stillwater. You do not see that listed in the budget because the plans are not finalized. Currently Stillwater is working with the district to put together a kiln plan. It is not as simple as purchasing a kiln, there has to be a designated place at the school to put it with proper ventilation. So there will be building modification fees associated with the installation of the kiln. In addition, the PTSA is working with the recess teachers (and subsequently the kids) on new playground equipment requests, as well as some current pieces of equipment that need repair. Once both items have been thoroughly investigated and bottom line cost numbers associated with them, we will be able to add them to our budget. Those two items could also increase our fundraising goal for the year, but without a solid number to associate with the cost for both of them the budget will stay as is for now.

With approximately 450 students at Stillwater, each student needs to raise around $70 for us to hit our goal. There was some communication on social media regarding suggested fundraising tactics for the PTSA, such as, “write us a check for x amount and we will not ask you for money the rest of the year.” Since every student at Stillwater would not be able to raise $70, the PTSA has to depend on fundraisers like the Hop-a-Thon and Walk-a-Thon that motivate kids to call/visit relatives and family friends. Both are purely donation based fundraisers, we do not sell t-shirts or equipment during these fundraisers. But we provide prizes and incentives for the students. Years ago, the PTSA listened to the families and went away with the candy, wrapping paper, entertainment book and cookie dough sales and switched to donation based fundraising.

So what can you do? Energize your students about participating in our two fundraisers for the year: the Hop-a-Thon in November and the Walk-a-Thon in May. The Dance Guy, field trips, art docent lessons, assemblies, and field day are all items kids LOVE and all items that require PTSA funding! You can also help Stillwater fundraise by doing everyday things: clip Box Tops and Labels for Education off your home and grocery items, shop at AmazonSmile instead of Amazon and use your Target Red Card if you have one when you shop at Target (for both AmazonSmile and Target Red Card make sure Stillwater PTSA is designated as your charity). Retail Funds, which encompasses those 3 things I just talked about earned Stillwater PTSA $3,141.37 last year. If you can make a donation and you work for a company that does corporate matching, please make sure you submit your donation to your company for a match. Last year Stillwater PTSA earned $3,242.72 in corporate matching funds.

If you have any questions please reach out to Lindsey or Jen at president@stillwaterptsa.org.

2015-2016 PTSA Budget Expense Plan

September 2015

Funds directly to Stillwater for: All Arts Day, Assemblies, Classroom Gifts, Field Day, Field Trip Stipends for all Grades, Library, Music and PE Enrichment funds, REF Auction Basket, STEM Night, Safety Patrol Recognition, Random Acts of Kindness Club, Girls on the Run Club and Teacher/Staff Grants – $14,525

Funds to support our Art Docent Program, Reflections, Talent Show and the Dance Guy – $6,800

Scholarships for local high school students – $850

Volunteer Appreciation and Membership Supplies/Hospitality – $600

Staff Appreciation and Staff Luncheon – $950

Special Outreach Programs: Dads and Donuts, Mom and Me – $1,000

Legislative Assembly, PTSA Convention and Awards – $2,125

Expenses related to running a corporation: Photocopies, Plaque Engraving, Post Office Box, Supplies, Website, Bank Charges, Checks/Deposit Slips, Insurance, Legal Registration, Accountant Gift, and Bookkeeping Software – $4,044

Misc Expenses: President Discretionary Fund, PTSA Property Enhancements – $200

Expense for Fundraising: Hop-a-Thon, Walk-a-Thon, Spring Fundraiser Plant Sale, and Retail Funds – $4,415

Expenses for break-even events and actives (they pay for themselves): Yearbook, Spiritwear, Raffle, Back to School BBQ, the Dance, Family Fun Night (Bingo this year), Directory and Membership Dues – $16,980

TOTAL Budget Expense Plan – $52,489

2015 – 2016 PTSA Budget Income Plan

Income from activities that pay for themselves and special outreach programs – $20,215

Fundraising income: Hop-a-Thon, Walk-a-Thon, Spring Fundraiser Plant Sale, Retails Funds and Corporate Matching – $31,000

TOTAL Budget Income Plan – $51,215

Net Budget Plan: -$1,274 (difference can be covered by bank balance from prior years)