Fundraiser

Please take the time to read this information.
February 13, 2008


Dear Parents/Guardians of Gilbert Paterson Middle School Students:
For many years, Gilbert Paterson Middle School has held a major fundraiser once every two years. In the past, stude nts would solicit pledges for a multiple question test, and would be eligible for prizes based on funds raised. This bi-annual two week venture was very labor intensive, intruded significantly into classroom learning, compelled students to study for and complete a 50 – 100 question test that had no significant impact on their learning, and imposed on families to fundraise a minimum of $50 from family, friends and neighbours.
The fundraiser has provided $28,000 - $40,000 biannually. Of these funds approx. $12,000 was used each year to support incentives and activities for each Grade level, purchase agendas for each student, and support co-curricular and extra curricular activities for our students. These funds are absolutely necessary to maintain these programs for our students.
The fundraiser has also provided an opportunity for students and staff to participate in activities geared to raise school spirit, and increase a sense of community within the school. The benefits of these activities for our students, and school community have been immeasurable.
This year, School Council and staff have taken an opportunity to reflect on the past fundraising operations. This reflection included discussion with parents through an e-mail survey. The overwhelming response from parents and staff was to eliminate traditional fundraising, and replace it with a contribution from each family to allow these important activities to continue.
Our first annual Tiger Pride week will be held February 25 – 29. The goals of the week will be two-fold:
To hold school wide activities (the majority during non-classroom time) that focus on increasing school spirit, and bringing the school community together.
To gather contributions to support continuation of Grade level incentives/activities, and whole school co-curricular activities.
In order to raise $14,000 to maintain the current level of activities, we are relying on support from Gilbert Paterson families. It will take an average of $40/student in order to achieve this goal. Any amount that you are able to contribute will be very much appreciated.
We look forward to and thank you in advance for your support of Tiger Pride week. We will be sending home Tiger Pride week information and a contribution envelope on February 25. We are confident that these changes to the traditional "fundraiser" will accomplish our goals, and will be less intrusive on families. We have many fun and exciting events planned for the student to enjoy during Tiger Pride week, please come out and join us.

Sincerely,
Mrs. Deborah Constable
Principal.