Annual Fund
To maintain our school’s high standard of education, the PS6 PTA raises funds each year through the Annual Fund. We responsibly deploy your tax-deductible donations, in-kind gifts, and volunteer time to ensure our students have the best educational experience possible.
The PTA's funding secures additional assistant teachers in every PS6 classroom, and as a result we enjoy a student to teacher ratio that meets or exceeds that of local independent elementary schools. The PTA also funds many programs that help keep our public school exceptional: additional visual and performing arts curricula; enhancement activities such as teacher professional development; and building maintenance to keep our school's green spaces vibrant.
How much do we donate?
The suggested amount is $1,600 per child, but every contribution makes an impact. We value all contributions regardless of the amount and strive for 100% participation.
Donations via check
Please write checks to: PTA of Lillie D. Blake School PS6
Checks can be left at the Main Office or delivered in student's backpack (please give your teacher advance notice).
Questions?
Please contact the Annual Fund Chairs at [email protected].
How did you arrive at a $1,600 suggested donation per child?
- We determine the per student donation by looking at historical Annual Fund participation and Associate Teacher cost at current wages. This is why, in order to raise associate teacher wages without increasing the per student ask, we need more families to join the effort.
- Of course, donations larger than $1,600 are welcome. Effectively and efficiently allocating parent dollars is our #1 priority.
Can I choose to pay in monthly installments?
- Of course! The monthly installment option on the website is live! Please email [email protected] with any questions.
Can I wait for my company to offer a corporate match? Can I wait until the new year?
- Yes and yes! Our fiscal year ends June 30th, 2025. Corporate matches are an incredible way to multiply your impact. However, if you are able to donate sooner without sacrificing a corporate match, please do so!
I always donate at the Spring Benefit. Doesn't that count towards the Annual Fund?
- The Benefit is an incredible community-building event that raises funds for the school and we encourage participation in our live and silent auction. The live auction typically supports large one-off capital improvements to our school. In prior years, this has included remodeling the nurse's office, upgrades to the roof playground, and our recently purchased gaga pit for recess fun.
- Our $700,000 annual budget factors in revenue raised through the fundraising events, including the auction, and the Annual Fund. Our fundraising events throughout the year allow us to keep our suggested donation at $1,600.
What about other fundraising events like the Fun Run?
- The Fun Run and Read-a-Thon are amazing community events that help kids get involved in supporting their school. These are also great ways to involve extended family, friends, and social networks in supporting our community. These fundraisers use platforms that charge fees, so we recommend families allocate the majority of their giving to the Annual Fund (ideally by check) so 100% of your donation goes to the school.
What happens if I can't donate the full amount?
- We understand that everyone's financial situation is different. Any amount is welcome – every single dollar counts.
How/Where can I donate?
- Online: Annual Fund
- Checks: Drop off at the Main Office; please address them to PS6 Lillie D. Blake School PTA.
Help! How do I get a receipt for my tax-deductible donation?
- Our Financial Secretaries will email you a receipt for any donation made by check. Auto-receipts are sent for all online donations. Please reach out to [email protected] with any questions!
Where can I see the school budget and a breakdown of revenue and expenses?
- The Treasurer reviews these during every PTA meeting. The weekly Operoo newsletters list the time and date of each upcoming meeting. Please reach out to [email protected] with questions.