As a fundraiser for one of our local public schools for many years, I’ve repeatedly heard the phrase “public school is not free anymore.” The truth is that public school has never been free. Everyone pays for the schools in their taxes, even people who have no children. This is because this country believes that it takes all the people to raise a child to be a productive citizen. This is especially true in Malibu because all the students that attend our public schools are provided with an enhanced curriculum, similar to one in a private school, paid for by donations.
Each school asks for a suggested amount ranging from $600 to $3,000. At Juan Cabrillo this money is used to pay the salaries of our art, science, music and computer teachers as well as classroom aides, and much, much more. If all the community is asked to pay for public school in their taxes, it seems only fair that people who have children currently in the schools pay more for an enhanced curriculum. We are an economically diverse community and any donation, no matter the size, is greatly needed and appreciated.
At Juan Cabrillo we put smiley faces next to the name of anyone in the class who donates a dollar or more. One hundred percent participation is our goal, but no one is left out, as one of the PTA parents puts in a dollar for any family who has not participated, so every child will receive a sticker in the end.
Juan Cabrillo lists were posted on classroom doors this week but were taken down due to an unsigned letter from a person who threatened to sue if the lists weren’t removed immediately. He or she does not want to contribute, apparently even one dollar, and is not against bullying while hiding his or her identity. The person also doesn’t think children should help.
Students are a big help in raising money for their own school. They jog, sell ties, sell pumpkins and learn about helping their community. I’d like to understand how this person feels we are going to raise the money for our school this year. To date, less than 20 percent of our families have donated (the campaign started in mid-July with a summer mailer). I cannot in good conscience continue to ask other people in the community to donate to the school if the parents of current students do not contribute. With no money we have no art, music, science or computer specialists, no directory, copy machines, dances, or other services and activities. This person seems to feel that doing without all these things is fine for his or her children and yours as well, as long everything is “free.”
Our PTA has always only been a dozen or so dedicated people trying to keep Cabrillo afloat. I am honored to have had such amazing colleagues. The parents who do help, give what they can in money and in time for the school and the PTA. They deserve major thanks and praise. We need help and money if we want the PTA to continue to give the kids the wonderful things like music, art and science as we have done in the past. When our children are without Mrs. Fisher, Lambert, Hutchinson and Phillipson, and all the other wonderful things the PTA provides, maybe more parents will stop complaining, step up and help.
Justine Petretti, VP of Fundraising, Juan Cabrillo Elementary