Direct Ask is the annual Direct Ask campaign run by the Community Montessori Elementary School PTA. 

This is THE major fundraiser of the school year.  It is the least expensive fundraiser and asks a minimum amount of volunteer hours, thus it has a fantastic ROI.

What is a Direct Ask campaign?

The CM PTA is committed to bridging the gap between federal/ state funding, and the funds we need to maintain essential functions and services. This total gap amounts to $89,000. We rely on Community Montessori parents, families, friends, employers, and school alumni to provide the enhancements that make our children’s educational experience true to the Montessori model.

The Strengthen the Hive, Direct Ask Campaign is CM’s largest annual fundraiser. This year’s goal is to raise $50,000 with this fundraiser, with a goal to have 100% of families participate to their best ability.  We are asking families for $250 per student. This method of fundraising has been selected as the preferred method for several years in a row by our community, because it is cost effective and requires minimal time and effort from our busy families.

There are many advantages to a direct ask campaign. These include:

1. 100% of the donation goes directly to the education initiatives budgeted for and funded by the PTA

2. The kids (and/or parents) don’t have to sell anything (Hooray!)

3. There is no classroom based competition

4. The donation is tax deductible (PTA is a 501(c))

5. It’s eligible for corporate matching gifts

6. Has lowest expenses and least amount of volunteer time of ALL fundraisers

7. Your contributions are confidential

Best of all, your donation will be used in your child’s classroom THIS YEAR!

Community Montessori Elementary is a public school. Why are our taxes not enough?

School taxes in the state of Colorado are extremely low relative to other states, and these low taxes mean Colorado Public Education ranks 43rd in the nation in per pupil spending (adjusted for regional cost differences). 

In fact, Colorado spends $3,087 below the national average per pupil (adjusted for regional cost differences).  Colorado is 40th in median student-teacher ratio in primary level schools, and Colorado ranks 50th in teacher wage competitiveness. 

Our PTA is a 501 (c)  organization established to raise funds for the needed staff that the District and State will not provide. Unfortunately fundraising is essential in order to maintain the incredible school we have created at CM. (source: http://greateducation.org/colorado/stats.html)

How does the PTA decide what to spend money on?

First and foremost, these donations go directly into your child’s classroom the year they are received.

Every Spring, the PTA and the Principal discuss the needs for the following year. PTA considers requests from the School Accountability Committee (SAC), which supports and address school improvement goals. The PTA also considers any feedback from families to confirm needs and costs. A PTA budget is allocated and spending is approved for the entire year. This cycle repeats every year and the PTA welcomes your participation.

Looking at the PTA budget, a great deal of these funds are spent on staffing our school according to the Montessori teaching method. Classroom budgets, literacy materials, and Montessori materials are our biggest budget items. Compared to other area schools, we have neither the largest nor smallest budget and are right in line with our peers. 

What is the donation goal?

We aim to raise $50,000 with the Direct Ask Fundraiser, towards the total goal of $89,000 needed to cover the cost of our para professionals and classroom materials.  We understand that some families can contribute more than others, and some may not be able to give this year. We encourage families to donate what is meaningful for them; we appreciate every dollar and every dollar makes a difference.

All giving will be kept confidential. The PTA will report progress in terms of percentages Community Montessori family participation and will share final numbers as total dollars given, and success of participation at the end of the campaign.

What happens if we don't reach our goal?

We have a reserve fund that we can draw from if we don't reach our goal. However, if drain this fund we will eventually have to reevaluate how the school allocates funds. This will affect paraprofessional and other student support, as well as materials for our children.

Our Montessori education truly is worth the requested $250 per student. When compared to a private Montessori education that runs upwards of $24,000 per year, the actual cost for our families is low. 

Can grandparents, aunts, uncles and friends donate?  

Yes! Parents are encouraged to mention the campaign to other family members and friends, and are welcome at any time during the year! 

How do I give to Direct Ask Campaign?

Giving is easy!  You can donate using PayPal, the CO GIVES website or you can pay through your banking app using Zelle®. You can drop off cash or a check to CMPTA in the office.  You can pay using credit card by clicking the PayPal button above and clicking debit or credit card. Employer matching is encouraged, so please ask. This may take some time to process, so the sooner you submit your request the better! Also, don’t forget, your donations are tax deductible.

I still have a question. Who can I contact?

Please contact the PTA Board at cmpta1@gmail.com. We welcome your questions and feedback. All discussions will be kept confidential.