Sunnyside Environmental School

3421 SE Salmon St., Portland, OR 97214 | Phone: 503-916-6226 | Fax: 503.916.2676 | Email
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Live Green/Give Green

Dear SES Parents,

We know these are difficult economic times and, as your PTSA, we want to honor the varied fiscal realities of our families. At the same time, we want to continue to provide all of our children with the rich, educational environment that makes SES the special experience that it is.

We recognize that you have already received a request for funds from our principal, Sarah. Her budget doesn't begin to cover the costs of doing business, and her needs are many. At the same time, the PTSA funds many programs that would not exist at SES wi thout your generous donations. While it may seem confusing to get asked twice for money, there are certain costs that must be paid by the school itself (Sarah's funds), and others that need to be paid by the PTSA. We've found it important to keep these funds separate and discreet.

As a board, we've decided to forego the SES auction this year. In part, we feel it's disrespectful to hold such an extravagant party when so many in our community and around the world are struggling financially. We are also brainstorming other ways to raise money that might be more in-line with the SES philosophy and culture. That said, your donations now are more important than ever.

So, what does PTSA use your money for?

The biggest cost, by far, is funding the sustainability coordinator position created last year and filled by Aaron Gilliam. Aaron is an amazing asset to the school, maintaining the gardens all year round and working with students in the garden and throughout the grounds, teaching them about recycling and other sustainability issues. This year he will also spearhead trips and lessons at Jean's Farm a lovely spot along Johnson Creek.

The second biggest cost is funding scholarships to ensure that every SES student in grades 4-8 can attend the grade-level overnight trips, regardless of ability to pay.

We also finance music programs at varying levels for all grades; support teachers with small grants and funds for non-consumable items for their classrooms; provide funds for school-based capital improvements; and pay for myriad other items, both large and small.

We're asking now for each family to contribute what they can to support the PTSA and all the programs we fund at SES. On the 2009-2010 adopted budget we expected $32,000 to be raised by the auction, then $7,000 to be raised by this Live Green, Give Green request. This total of $39,000 could be made up by:

  • 390 families donating $100
  • 260 families donating $150
  • 195 families donating $200

The suggested donation is $100 per child, but we'll accept anything you can provide. New this year is the ability to make a monthly payment with an automatic withdrawal from your checking account. Again, this is separate from any funds you donate to Sarah's general school fund, so we need a separate check.

Thank you sincerely for helping the SES PTSA continue to support the students and staff!