

BCE Frequently Asked Questions
This is public school. Why am I being asked to donate?
Quality public school districts in California today are a public-private partnership
because the state of California does not adequately fund public education. The barebones
funding coming from the state is sub-standard in today's environment. The
national average for per student public education funding is about $9,000. The states
with the best schools spend upwards of $10,000 per student. Burlingame school district
receives under $5,000 per student from the state. BCE was founded in 1981 to bridge the
gap between state funding and the needs of our schools.
How does the current state budget situation affect our school district?
State budget cuts for 2009-2010 have forced our district to cut an additional $250 per
student. Additionally, the district foresees mid-year cuts as well as further reductions
for the 2010-2011 school year. To help ensure that our district remains of excellent
caliber, we ask you to donate as much as you can. The BCE board will work in tandem
with the district and the school board to ensure that funds raised support the best
education for our children.
Why don't my property taxes cover the cost of my child's education?
California's school finance system evolved through a combination of court decisions,
legislative actions, voter-approved initiatives (including Proposition 13), and
government regulations. The result is a system in which school revenues are controlled
at the state level. Our property taxes go to Sacramento and less than 50 cents of every
dollar comes back to our school district. The money our district receives from the state
is insufficient to fund the quality, well-rounded education we all want for our children.
What does BCE raise money for and what does my school PTA raise money for?
BCE and PTAs raise money for different and complementary things. BCE grants funds
to our district for library, P.E. and music programs as well as funds to ensure that class
sizes are as low as possible. PTAs raise money for classroom enrichment, campus
beautification, equipment, etc. BCE is the only organization that can fund teacher
salaries.
I am not in a position to donate the suggested amount. What can I do?
In order to support these district programs, BCE needs to raise $500 per child. All
donations of any amount are important. Every child benefits and every donation
counts. We would like 100% of our Burlingame school families to donate at the level
that is right for them. We also have a recurring payment program where a fixed amount
can be charged to a credit card or deducted from a debit card each month. As an
example, for $42 per month, you can support valued district programs for one child.
Also, you can volunteer your time for the annual BCE Dinner Dance & Auction, Pledge day, the Board of Directors and many other opportunities. Please contact
for details – 650-766-8969 or nicolejohnsonbce@gmail.com and let her know you would like to get involved.
Who is involved in BCE?
BCE is a volunteer-driven, non-profit organization. Parents, grandparents, teachers,
administrators and local business people support BCE by donating time, goods, services and money.
The BCE Board of Directors consists of parents from each school, local business people,
the Superintendent, an Administration representative, a PTA Council representative
and a School Board representative.
For more information on public school financing, visit EdSource Online.
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