FAQs 常问问题
FAQs for Redwood City Mandarin Immersion Scholars
How are funding decisions made? All RCMIS funding decisions are discussed and voted on by the Board of Directors. These could include in-person, virtual, or email discussions depending on urgency of a response. Board of Directors are parent volunteers with students in the Redwood City Mandarin Immersion program.
I would like to help. How can I get involved?
If you would like to volunteer, please email info@rcmis.org to share how you would like to volunteer.
If you would like to donate, please visit our PayPal donation page. Please let us know if you receive corporate matching.
Donations
How does RCMIS raise money? RCMIS raises money through direct donations and our fundraising events.
Can my money fund a specific ask? At this time, RCMIS is a volunteer run organization. We do not have the resources to manage and steward restricted donations.
Is my donation tax deductible? Yes, as a 501(c)3, your donation is tax deductible to the extent permitted by law. Please consult your tax advisor for more information.
How much should I give? Thank you for considering a donation to RCMIS. Any amount is greatly appreciated. This year, we ask families to contribute $1,800, but we often receive a range of amounts.
Do I have to donate? No, there is no “pay to play” in the RCSD. Parents are not obligated to contribute, and resources are shared across the entire MI program regardless of which families contribute.
I think my company matches gifts, but I am not sure. Can you help? You can search for your company here. Company guidelines can change frequently, but this can help you with your search. Keep in mind that these matching gifts can amplify your giving significantly!
Are you the PTO? RCMIS is an independent foundation that makes grants to support Mandarin Immersion learning in Redwood City. If would like to contribute to your child’s school, please contact:
Grants
What is RCMIS' Spending Model? We operate within an earn it, budget it, spend it model. We fundraise in the current year and spend in the next year. This model ensures that we can make solid funding commitments and minimize our risk of deficit spending. As a young organization, we do not have an endowment and do not anticipate having more than a limited amount to carryover year over year.
Who decides what to fund? Traditionally, the principal works in collaboration with teachers to determine their needs. That proposal is shared with RCMIS for discussion and evaluation. Based on available grant funds, the board votes on grant commitments.
How does RCMIS pay their grants? On a quarterly basis, RCSD requests a release of grant funds based on quarterly invoices. These funds are not prepaid. RCMIS rolls any unused funds over for future spending, if extra funds exist. Our grants fund Mandarin instructional aides in classrooms, Mandarin instructional coaching for all MI teachers, and Mandarin reading intervention.
Aides
What is RCMIS' role in the day to day work of the aides? RCMIS is a grantmaking organization. While RCMIS grants funds to support specific roles and projects, it is not the employer. The Redwood City School District (RCSD) is the employer and determines the wages, hours, and conditions of employment.
Who is involved in hiring the aides? RCSD is solely responsible for hiring the aides. Since our inception, RCMIS has placed its trust in the Redwood City School District to bring into our school community individuals that would enrich our children’s Mandarin immersion learning experience. During that time, this trust has brought us wonderful individuals, who we have embraced as our own and who care, support, and work tirelessly for the sake of our children.
How are aides paid? RCSD pays the aides. Please refer to the RCSD website for more details about payroll.
Tags: John Gill Elementary School, Orion Alternative, San Mateo County, 555 Avenue Del Ora, Chinese Language, Kennedy Middle School, K-8, Kindergarten, Sixth, Seventh, Eight, 6th, 7th, 8th, Preschool, Peninsula, Silicon Valley, Bay Area, California, Public, Mandarin, Immersion, elementary school, middle school, junior high school