• What is the difference between the Foundation and the PTA?
  The PTA is an organization that supports the day-to-day educational programs of the school. There are very specific guidelines and restrictions that have to be followed by the PTA pertaining to fundraising and expenses. The Foundation has the ability to 
  provide programs and resources above and beyond those provided by the PTA or the Cobb County School District. The tax-exempt status of the Foundation allows us to receive employee-matching funds, apply for educational grant monies and more! All money that is donated and raised by the Foundation goes directly to our school - our children. Every penny. We are not limited in how and when we spend our money. While the PTA and the Davis Foundation both seek ways to meet the needs of students, the means by which that is accomplished is different.  


• Do other schools in our area have Foundations?
  Yes.  Many elementary, middle and high schools across the country have foundations as a way to greatly supplement their schools. Locally, Mountain View, Mt. Bethel, Tritt and Shallowford Falls have very active Foundations. They have been able to fund foreign language instructors, computer labs, drama classes, science lab rooms and equipment, live animal zoos, sound equipment, computer equipment and much more. Much of the new stadium renovation at Lassiter was provided for by their Foundation.

 

• Why should I care about the Foundation?
  Studies have shown that schools with thriving foundations that directly benefit the school, as well as enrichment programs such as  
  foreign languages and science classes built into their daily curriculum are performing well above schools that do not. Other schools in the area that are similar to Davis are providing approximately 66 hours per year of additional instruction in those areas to each student.  This is instruction Cobb county does not provide. We can do it, too! Your child deserves to have a nice, updated school facility and well-maintained grounds in which to spend all of the 1,080 days of elementary school. This includes playground equipment that is not rusted or broken, a field that is functional for students both during and after school, safely mulched play areas, garden areas and walking paths.
  
  Does this mean I am going to be asked to volunteer more?
  A Foundation typically needs a smaller number of volunteers than the PTA.  Unlike PTA, a Foundation sponsors only a few, limited events. However, as our Davis Foundation grows, we will need more help in governance, execution of events, and in administration of resources for our school.  If you are interested in joining us, we will find a job for you!

 

• Does this mean I am going to be asked for more money?
  The Davis Foundation is as successful as its support.  We cannot provide the programs and capital improvements above and beyond what the Cobb County School District and the PTA are able to provide without financial support from our stakeholders 
  - that means you! Know that your child, as a student at Davis Elementary, is benefiting directly from your contribution. This year we will hold three fundraisers, for which 100% of the profits go directly to us. We also accept donations of any amount. Participation in fundraisers and in our donor program are always optional and are very much appreciated.