Letter to the Editor

Your view: Support our schools

Friday, June 30, 2006

As a member of the Sikeston Public Schools Foundation, I am writing to tell you about a unique opportunity to support our local schools. The Sikeston Public Schools Foundation is a 501 (c) 3 organization whose purpose is to support the educational programs for the students and staff. It was formed primarily to administer scholarship funds to deserving graduating seniors. Recently the Foundation trustees with the support of the Board of Education have realized that many more students can be served by expanding the foundation's reach. It is for this reason I am writing today.

For the past two years the Foundation has been studying the goals, needs and desires of the district and exploring opportunities to help. Although scholarships remain in demand, there are many other avenues where the Foundation can make a difference: grants for teachers, field trips, and enrichment activities in the classroom to name a few. With this knowledge the Foundation trustees have decided to move forward and fulfill this expanded need.

In doing so, we have hired a talented part time director in Robin Stoner, set up a bare bones office and started fundraising efforts to help these goals become a reality. This is where you have an opportunity to help. One of our first goals is to raise money that will literally serve as our "foundation." All contributors who make a $1,000 donation by July 31, 2006, will be designated as Founding Donors. A plaque designating such will be displayed and these valuable supporters will be recognized at future events. Your donation may be designated as a memorial or honorarium.

I am asking you to consider thoughtfully this very important cause. Our public schools are the foundation of our community. It is this board's desire to encourage and financially support the best educational opportunities for all students and staff in the Sikeston R-6 School District. With your help we will succeed.

Sincerely,

Sikeston Public Schools Foundation Board of Directors

Dr. Robert Buchanan, President Randy York, Secretary Ellen Brandom

Julie Crader Dolan Nonie Fuchs

Sally B. Lape

Fred Steward

Sharon Black

Ann Jones