What is SPARK?
SPARK - Larkspur-Corte Madera Schools Foundation is a nonprofit organization staffed by parent volunteers. It is dedicated to raising private funds each year from you, your neighbors and local businesses you frequent to supplement the financial needs of Neil Cummins and Hall Middle Schools
SPARK was founded by concerned parents in 1980 following the passage of Proposition 13 which cut deeply into local school funding. Over the past 29 years our schools have weathered numerous state budget crises. Government funding has been unreliable and inadequate to support all the elements of a well-rounded education for our children. California, in particular, is below the national average in expenditure per student.
SPARK can’t solve the frustrating lack of government funds for our schools, but we can make a difference in bridging the funding gap. With your help and the help of our business community, we can pay for the added teachers and programs that make our schools exceptional!
SPARK Funds Programs
On behalf of SPARK and the Board of Trustees, we're excited to announce a new structure for how SPARK funds are designated.
In the past, SPARK has allocated a majority of the dollars raised each year to the district General Fund. Starting this year, we're allocating these dollars directly to the programs that enrich our children's education: Music, Art, Science and Technology.
SPARK has committed to donating over $1M this school year that
with your contribution will support these programs!
This chart illustrates the percentage of funds going to the different programs. To see more detailed information about the SPARK budget, click here and to view SPARK’s Profit & Loss Forecast for 2010-2011, Click here
SPARK aims to bridge the gap between state funding and the true cost of a quality education. By changing the way SPARK funds are deployed to the District, we have more visibility into how our children will directly benefit from SPARK's support.
You'll hear more from SPARK in the coming weeks as Donation Week (October 25-29) nears. Please support our schools and help to fund support these great programs that you and your children value. With your help, we can continue to ignite our children's education!
Scott Key & Alicia Kepler SPARK Co Presidents
