The Need for Creative Funding for Charter Schools

On average, charter schools in the U.S. receive about $7147 dollars less funding per pupil than traditional public schools. Charter schools are not bound by the government, which is seen in the lack of funding, but this also means they have the ability to be creative and innovative. Charter and community schools often turn to alternative, creative solutions for funding their programs.

It can be frustrating trying to secure alternative funding. Bureaucracy gets in the way of supporting kids’ education. Our CEO Nina has met with many teachers and staff from public schools, trying to work with them and help them raise money. One from Johnson elementary said, “We can’t accept any donations from the local community; we have to go to the local churches.”

In a meeting at another school, the adult staff member was seated in a kid’s chair with a curtain haphazardly hung up behind her- that was her “office”. She said the only donations they get are from the local church or if a family randomly drops off a winter coat or two.

While we encounter some barriers, we are continuing to fight for education. Our goal with getGFTD charity is to connect charter schools and donors so that the staff can not only purchase classroom items, but also fund and grow programs. Creative funding can be used to:

-build a playground

-have a visit from the Lego ‘Brick Mobile’

-fund an educational field trip

-purchase crafting or science kits

-build an emotional support team

-support infrastructure

Think about taking field trips to the aquarium, the science center, or the planetarium! There is a wonderful opportunity, using the freedom that charter schools have, to provide enriching activities and experiences for the kids.

For over 2 years, GetGFTD has worked with The Tunbridge School, helping them raise money through the getGFTD website to fund supplies, gifts, and field trips. Teachers make a wishlist of items and then donors can choose which item to donate, knowing that they've made a real difference in a kid's life. The school's office receives a monetary donation designated to the specific item or event.

Unlike other organizations, GetGFTD takes 0% of the donation. We are focused on giving back to the community and making a real impact.

We hope to partner with more charter schools in the future and continue this work. Remember to think creatively when it comes to using alternative funding!