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ISM Foundation (Bridging the Gap)
The International School of Monterey is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. As such 100% of your financial contributions are tax deductible. 501(c)(3) Tax ID# 74-3062542
As in all California public and charter schools, the International School of Monterey (ISM) relies on State funding to cover program costs. This funding is based on Average Daily Attendance (ADA), i.e. the number of students who attend classes each day.
Public schools statewide have been forced to reduce and eliminate most elective classes and classroom support because the ADA funding received does not cover the additional costs. One of the many features of ISM that make it excel is the fact that we continue to offer:
- Instructional aides
- Drama, visual arts, and music for each student
- Spanish language instruction
- Physical education taught by specialists
In order to continue offering these programs, the ISM Foundation is challenged with bridging the gap between what the State provides in ADA-based funding and what it actually costs to offer our programs. After ISM receives its State funding, we still need to come up with approximately $1,800 per student - in large part by parent/guardian contributions. Through the ISM Board of Directors and Administration, we ensure that our costs are reduced wherever possible.
The ISM Foundation focuses on three major efforts to bridge the funding gap:
- Family Share Program
- Grants
- Annual Auction and Dinner Dance
Family Share Program – 100% family participation
As the name implies, we ask that ISM families contribute financially to the maximum extent possible. Our goal is for each family to participate and make contributing to their child’s education a priority in their overall annual giving. The level of contribution is expected to vary by the financial circumstances of each family; however, we hope that everyone will contribute as generously as they are able. The suggested contribution level is $1,800 per student. (Compare this to the $18,000-plus price tag for private education!)
It is important to note, that when applying to granting agencies, they want to see 100% parent participation. Granting agencies want to know that the parents are doing their part, and believe in the school enough to contribute to it. Please help us reach 100% parent participation by giving something each year.
Grants
To help reach our funding goals, we are aggressively pursuing grants that ISM may be eligible for. If you are interested in joining our Grants Committee, or have any skills in writing or applying for grants, please email grants@ismonterey.org.
Annual Auction and Dinner Dance
(2011 International Extravaganza) [flyer]
In addition to helping raise much needed funds, the International Extravaganza (previously the World Neighborhood Gala) helps to build and sustain the feeling of community among families and friends of ISM. Please join us this year for another fantastic event.
(If you would like to volunteer for the event or make a donation to the auction, please contact Plasha Will at foundation@ismonterey.org).
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