FAQ

What is the SCASD Education Foundation?
The State College Area School District Education Foundation exists to enhance the educational experience of the 7,000 students enrolled in our district—providing every student with the tools, resources, opportunities, and programming they need to succeed in the classroom, during their critical years of development, and in life after graduation. By raising voluntary donations that fall outside funding generated through the tax base for annual operating expenses, the Education Foundation provides financial support for innovative learning opportunities, including co-curricular and extracurricular activities for all students, and supports development costs for new curricular programs to provide teachers and students with up-to-date tools, resources, and course material.

Why do we need a Foundation?
Compared to other Pennsylvania school districts, many of which rely heavily on state funding for most of their budgets, SCASD is fortunate. Local revenue sources, consisting primarily of property taxes, fund about 82 percent of the district’s budget, providing consistent revenue and allowing the district to maintain its quality faculty, courses, activities, and facilities. But the district strives for fiscal responsibility, and budgets may not cover worthy learning opportunities. That’s where the Education Foundation comes in. Funds raised by the foundation supplement the community’s existing support and give individuals and businesses a vehicle for enhancing the experiences of students in specific ways.

Aren’t my taxes enough?
Local revenue sources fund the majority of the district’s annual budget, with 66 percent derived from real estate taxes — a generous revenue stream that enables the district to operate at high standards. Our community has demonstrated a strong commitment to provide top-quality public education for all children. The Education Foundation exists to supplement the district’s yearly revenues, primarily taxes, by encouraging voluntary donations to fund innovative programs and enhanced facilities, tools and resources that improve educational opportunities for local students, sustaining the excellent reputation we’ve proudly claimed for generations.

How will my student benefit?
Donations will unequivocally impact all students in the district by sustaining cutting-edge educational programs, a growing number of extracurricular and co-curricular activities, and upgraded tools and resources available to students both in and out of the classroom. Teachers, administrators, and students have the opportunity to recommend and select areas of need, giving them a voice in shaping the educational experience

I don’t have a student in the district. Why should I give?
A high-quality education system benefits the whole community. Strong schools create a culture that improves the quality of life throughout the community, attracts new businesses and residents, and strengthens the local economy. Owning a home within a successful school district increases your property value. And the numerous service projects that SCASD students participate in further strengthen our entire community and nurture the value of giving back.

Where does my money go?
Gifts to the education foundation directly impact the 7,000 students in the 13 schools within our district through programs and projects. The Education Foundation is an independent 501(c)3 non-profit organization. We’re just getting started and recently launched our first project—a student-led project at the high school’s South building—but as our funding grows, we expect to support multiple projects annually. The school district receives all gifts through procedures consistent with the State College Area School District Board of Directors’ policy 913.3 (Gifts to the District).

Who decides where my donation goes?
Students, teachers, and administrators provide suggestions for projects or programs. Representatives from the school district’s administration and faculty will work with the Foundation’s board and volunteers to prioritize grant requests.

How can I give?
You can make a one-time donation anytime throughout the year at www.scasdfoundation.org or through one of our direct mail solicitations.

Are donations tax deductible?
Yes. The State College Area School District Education Foundation is registered as a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Gifts to the Education Foundation are tax deductible up to the amount outlined by IRS regulations for charitable contributions.

Can I give stocks or leave a gift in my will?
Yes. For more information on stock transfers or planned giving, contact Foundation Executive Director Paul Olivett at [email protected].

How can I get more information?
Visit www.scasdfoundation.org and sign up for our monthly eLetter containing the latest Education Foundation news and event updates.

Have additional questions? Contact Executive Director Paul Olivett at [email protected].