My school just recently completed a magazine fundraiser sale. I see the need for schools to have fundraisers. The money allotted by state and local governments is not enough to purchase computers and instructional materials for schools. However, I always dread the fundraising part of the year.
Some parents choose not to let their children participate because they cannot afford to buy items or do not have relatives that can buy items. Other parents are simply against fundraising in general. A few parents just do not wish to take the time to be involved in their child’s education and never even open the packets or read the letters. These parents are not even aware that we are having a fundraiser.
My school, as most schools, has rewards and prizes for student involvement. Students can receive anywhere from very small prizes, such as candy, to large items and trips, such as to the park and skating. The prize system is the only reason that many students participate. Without it, there would not as good of a turnout of student involvement and money raised.
However, the prize system does have its downfalls. Children of the age that I work with have no control over fundraising. The parents must complete all of the work. The children do not determine how much, if any, that they sell. They also do not understand how prizes are awarded. Many of the children are upset to find some students getting rewards and them not getting anything.
Some people would say that this is all a part of life that children have to learn. While, I do agree with giving rewards for things such as good behavior and good effort, I feel that those things are in a different category than fundraising. Unlike selling items, children are responsible for their behavior and their work.
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