09/21/2008: "Possible $250K in Matching Funds To SJSD"

Superintendent Michael Soltman reported today that the Save Our Schools (SOS) Campaign has raised $252,713 toward a matching gift goal of $300,000 made by the San Juan Island Community Foundation.

It is anticipated that the Community Foundation will award $250,000 in matched funds at its “Breakfast of Champions” on Friday, September 26th. Soltman reported that the combined “challenge” and “matching” gifts have reached $505,426 toward restoring the $600,000 in program cuts identified last spring. He said, “This amazing community support has made it possible for us to sustain excellence in our school programs for the 2008-09 school year. We are so grateful for this community’s commitment to its schools.”

The $300,000 Challenge Gift through the San Juan Community Foundation included gifts from:

Fairway Fund $200,000
David McCauley and Cloud Oakes $25,000
Charles Anderson and Pamela Gross $25,000
Scott Boden $25,000
Roger Salquist $25,000

The San Juan Island Schools Foundation “Save Our Schools” Matching Campaign has raised $252,713 and includes gifts from:
Valmark Inc. $50,000
Roche Harbor Resort $10,000
Richard and Joan Komen $10,000
Carolyn Haugen (K-12 UW Marine Program) $10,500
Experience Food Project - Lunch Program $30,000
Purple and Gold Booster Club $22,500
San Juan Island Community Foundation -Donor Advised Funds $3,000
And 481 Individual Donations Totaling… $116,713

Soltman said, “We have until October 1st to raise $47,287 to access the remaining matching funds to fully restore essential services such as playground supervision, paraprofessional support for struggling learners, and secretarial services.” Donations can be made through the San Juan Island Public Schools Foundation or the San Juan Island Community Foundation.

Soltman also reported that a three pronged effort to address the long term funding challenge is underway. This effort includes a committee designated for legislative advocacy, participation in statewide litigation to cause the legislature to fully fund basic education, and a committee conducting long range financial planning for the District. Citizens wishing to participate in any of these initiatives are invited to contact the District Offices -2378-4133.