The Highline School Board recognizes that the vast majority of funding for schools comes from state and federal sources, as well as from local levies.  However, there continue to be some limited situations where fundraising fills a specific unmet need.  For example, many schools host student book sales as a fundraiser for school libraries.

To preserve and to establish district programs and educational opportunities the board authorizes fundraising activities where such programs: (1) Promote K-12 education; (2) Provide educational experiences for students, and/or (3) Address local funding obligations that support the educational mission of the district; (4) and/or promote the effective, efficient, or safe management and operation of the district.

District fundraising activities may include: (1) Soliciting gifts and donations that are reasonably related to the pursuit of the district’s objectives; (2) Entering into interlocal agreements with other governments which generate additional funds for school district activities; and/or (3) Operating various revenue generating enterprises consisting of the sale of goods or services that are produced by, or that are linked to, the district’s educational program. Fundraising programs, including enterprise activities, will be in the best interests of the district and will not interfere with the operation of the district’s programs and functions. District fundraising programs will not conflict with any applicable law and or state or federal constitutional provisions, including the separation of church and state.

This policy governs the establishment and administration of district fundraising for the general fund and for particular programs in the district. It does not address fundraising programs conducted by Parent Teacher Organizations, other non-profit or citizens’ organizations, or the Associated Student Body. Fundraising by the Associated Student Body is addressed by RCW 28A.325.030 and Policy 3510.

The superintendent will establish procedures for the administration of district fundraising programs to ensure compliance with all applicable laws.

Cross References
Fundraising Activities Involving Students - Policy 3530
Associated Student Bodies - Policy 3510

Legal References
School Boards of Directors – Powers –Notice of adoption of policy - RCW 28A.320.015
Gifts, conveyances, etc., for scholarship and student aid purposes, receipt and administration - RCW 28A.320.030
AGO 2003 No. 1 Attorney General’s Opinion

Management Resources
District Fundraising Activities - Policy News December 2003

Highline School District 401
Adopted by the Board: August 2017
Classification: Discretionary