5GC (5th Grade Committee)

Informational Form

Important! Please fill out this form ASAP if you haven't already.

Donate via PayPal

FAQ - 5th Grade Committee & Pali Camp 

Q. What are all the 5th grade activities? How much do they cost?

A. 5th grade activities and their estimated costs are:

• Pali Camp: A 3-day, 2-night science camp in Running Springs happening April 13-15. Cost: $40,000. (CCEF is generously covering the additional transportation costs.)

• Field Trip: 5th graders enjoy a special, non-educational field trip the last week of school. Previous classes have gone to Hansen Dam or Boomers. Cost: $3,000. (Note: Educational field trips are fully funded by the PTA for all grade levels.)

• Promotion Ceremony: Tentatively Thursday, June 11, at the Veterans Auditorium. Cost: $2,000.

• Memory Books: Every student receives a printed book filled with photos and memories of the Class of 2026 over the years. Cost: $1,600.

• T-shirts: Every 5th grade student and teacher gets a t-shirt with student-designed images and student/teacher names. Cost: $1,500.

• Legacy Tiles: Students design and paint their own tile that will be installed in the main hallway of campus. Cost: $1,500.

• Picnic: A fun picnic on the field followed by the traditional student vs. staff kickball game. Cost: $250

Q. Does my family have to pay for Pali Camp?

A. Families who are able to pay for Pali Camp are being asked to do so. Partial or full scholarships are available for students whose families are unable to pay; however, these resources are limited. To help ensure every student can participate, we are relying on families who are able to contribute to cover their student’s cost this year.

Q. When are contributions due?

A. We would like families to turn in their informational forms and donations as soon as possible. This will allow us to gain a good sense of scholarship and fundraising needs. While we would prefer all financial contributions to be made before Pali Camp, we can accept contributions through the end of the school year.

Q. Can I spread out our contribution throughout the school year?

A. Yes, we’d be happy to accept contributions spread out over whatever time period works best for your family. Please provide the details on your form or in an email to ElRincon5GC@gmail.com, so we know what to expect.

Q. If my child does not attend Pali Camp, do I still have to pay?

A. Most 5th graders do attend Pali Camp, even if they (or you) are nervous at first. While camp attendance is optional, we hope that you will contribute, since over the years most “maybes” have turned into “yeses”. If in the end they do not attend, your contribution will still go toward other 5th grade activities. Since all contributions are considered donations, they are non-refundable.

Q: Doesn’t the district and/or CCEF pay for Pali Camp? Why is it different this year?

A: There have been many changes to the funding of Pali Camp over the years. For the 2022-23 and 2023-24 school years, CCUSD and CCEF covered the cost of Pali Camp for 5th graders in all district elementary schools. Last school year (2024-25), the district ended its contribution, but CCEF covered the cost of transportation plus 25% of Pali Camp tuition. While CCEF continues to cover all transportation costs for the Class of 2026, individual schools are now responsible for the entire camp tuition.

Q. I heard the PTA is funding Pali Camp scholarships. Can’t the PTA cover everything?

A. Historically, the 5th Grade Committee (5GC) fundraises to cover 5th grade activities, with PTA helping out only if needed. This year is no different, even with the added tuition cost of Pali Camp. Without the 5GC’s fundraising efforts, the PTA’s budget - which supports activities for all students and grade levels - would be quickly depleted. Your contributions help ensure the Class of 2026 can enjoy Pali Camp, while also protecting resources that support enriching experiences for all El Rincon students.

Q. What about the Booster Club? Can they help?

A. The Booster Club is helping with their photo fundraiser with Fund Photos. 100% of funds raised are earmarked for 5GC and will go toward 5th grade activities and Pali Camp scholarships. Limited spots are still available, and you or people you know who want to take part can sign up here. 

Q. If families are being asked to pay for Pali Camp and 5th grade activities, where are the fundraising monies going?

A. While families who are able to are expected to contribute toward Pali Camp and other 5th grade activities, we do not know how many families will need financial assistance. Fundraising helps to ensure that every 5th grader can fully participate in all activities, regardless of their family’s ability to contribute, allowing all students to enjoy these special experiences together. All monies raised by 5GC will go toward 5th grade activities.

Q. What other 5GC fundraising is happening or planned? 

A. The Student/Scholar Store has been raising money for 5th grade activities. 5GC is also exploring restaurant fundraisers, new spiritwear, and sponsorships. Stay tuned for more info!

Q. I have ideas for fundraising. How can I help?

A. Please email ElRincon5GC@gmail.com with your ideas. We especially welcome people who can set up fundraising efforts and see them through. With costs rising and ongoing budget constraints, every fundraising idea and bit of support makes a real difference- your involvement is greatly appreciated!

Q. When is the Student/Scholar Store open?

A. The Student/Scholar Store is open on select Fridays and features popsicle pop-ups. We’d love to open the store every week, but we need more volunteers to make that happen! If you can help, please email ElRincon5GC@gmail.com. The time commitment is roughly 3:10-4:10pm on Fridays (or 1:40-2:40pm on Wednesdays).

Q. Are our contributions tax-deductible?

A. Yes! All contributions are considered donations to the El Rincon PTA, a 501(c)(3) organization, and are fully tax-deductible. The PTA can provide tax letters for your records. Thank you for your generosity and support!

Q. How do I pay by check?

A. Please bring your check (payable to "El Rincon PTA" with "5GC" in the memo) to the front office and ask for it to be delivered to the PTA President mailbox.

Q. How do I pay by credit or debit card?

A. You can pay via PayPal at this link.

Q. Can I contribute through employer matching?

A. Yes! Please email ElRincon5GC@gmail.com so we can be on the lookout for your and your employer’s contribution. You can also email with any matching-related questions or if you need an expedited donation receipt.

Q. Are business or individual sponsorships accepted?

A. Yes, if you know a business or individual who would like to sponsor scholarships or help fund an entire activity, we would love to connect with them! Please email ElRincon5GC@gmail.com to connect us.

Q. I have more questions. Who should I ask?

A. Please direct additional questions to ElRincon5GC@gmail.com. 

Updates

Form Response Data as of 2/4/26: