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.