What is the Brick Fundraiser?

A one time fundraiser that allows you to purchase an engraved brick that will be permanently displayed on International Plaza at the entrance of Sunset’s new classroom building currently under construction.

What is its main goal?

To provide financial support to the International Studies Magnet Program and the International Education Program at Sunset Elementary School.

Why does Sunset need financial support?

Due to the Public Schools budget crisis, funding to magnet programs such as ours has been cut by 56%. Sunset has lost $500/student (around $400,000) in funding in 2008/2009 and further cuts are expected in 2009/2010.  We are at risk of losing many of the quality programs we know and expect at Sunset due to lack of funding.

I was told that only a small portion of my brick donation will be allocated to the Language Programs. Is that true?

No. You choose what Language program you want to support by circling the right Language on your brick order form: Spanish, German or French. If you child is in the International Education Program and not in a Language Program, then select International Education on the brick form. The funds raised will be held in escrow by SEED in a different sub account per program.

How do I find out how much money was raised to support my child’s program?

Out of the total $57,600 raised, families in the Spanish Program have donated $28,900, those in the French Program have donated $13,400, those in the German Program have donated $11,400, and those in the International Education Program have donated $3,000.

Are there different contribution levels?

Yes! Bricks come in different shades and sizes at four different contribution levels, similar to the Apples in The Giving Tree. Due to the higher cost of this fundraiser, contributions range from $100 to $1,000. Please refer to the order form attached for more detail.

Are there any participation incentives?

Yes! Homerooms with more than 50% student participation receive a 4x8 brick in their honor. The homeroom with the highest % participation and the homeroom that raises the most money will each be honored with an 8x8 brick.

I have filled out the form, do I send it back in the Communicator?

No. In spite of enhanced security procedures, every year 10-15% of checks get lost between the classroom and SEED’s safebox. We are asking parents to mail their forms and checks in the pre-printed envelopes provided to our new Post Office Box:

SEED

P.O. Box 43-0803

South Miami, Florida 33243-0803

I have already bought a brick. Is there anything else I can do?

Yes. This is a sample of additional things you can do:

1. Upgrade to a more expensive brick or order a 2^nd brick. With cuts at $500/student, Sunset needs as much financial help as possible from every source.

2. Help SEED identify potential corporate sponsors for our Magnet Program. Contact us at givingtree@sunsetseed.net with your suggestions.

3. Find out if your employer will match your donation through their Matching Funds program. We have received $1,250 in Corporate Matches so far.

4. Donate to the SAC “Save our Programs” Fund. Information about this fund and how to contribute is available on SEED/SAC’s bulletin board.

          HELP SAVE OUR PROGRAMS. GET YOUR BRICK TODAY!

Other important information:

• Please make your check payable to SEED.
• Find out if your employer has a Matching Funds Program. Your employer’s match earns you a SECOND brick
• Contributions are TAX DEDUCTIBLE.

 

More questions?

Send us an e-mail with your questions and suggestions to givingtree@sunsetseed.net.