Nov 2006 Editor's Letter
By: Jill Pinheiro

What is the school principal's role in fundraising?

According to the Association of Fund-Raising Distributors and Suppliers, "Too often, today's busy school principals leave fundraising responsibilities to their parent groups and booster clubs."

The association interviewed several principals about their about this trend and how they view their own role in fundraising.

"I serve on the executive board for both the parent organization and the athletic association, the two main fundraising organizations in our school," said Sister Nadine, a principal at a private Catholic school in Hazlet, New Jersey. "These groups make significant contributions to our schools, and I have a hand in everything that happens, including setting goals and how we reach those goals. I also bring a little history to the table and know what, and who, has worked well for us in the past. And, for me, accountability is a top priority. After every fundraiser, a written report must be filed and eventually shared with everyone in the school. The reports show how much money was spent and how much money was earned and where it all went. This step protects the organization and the volunteers in charge."

How active a participant are you in your school's fundraising efforts? Could, or should, your role be expanded?

In our annual spotlight on school fundraising, we focus on some specific, unique events that your school can hold, stepping out of the box of traditional methods. Besides being effective way to raise money, events are fun for your students, parents and other members of your community.

This issue also includes a special section on curriculum. In addition to the basics of the selection process for general Christian school curriculum, we also provide information on specific subjects and associated curriculum, from math to reading/English to history/social studies. I hope that you'll find this section to be a comprehensive resource as you evaluate curriculum for your religious educational facility.

I'm always interested in hearing from you. You can reach me at jill@cspmag.com.

God Bless,

Jill Pinheiro
Managing Editor