Direct Donation FAQ
What is the suggested donation amount?
The suggested donation amount is $750 per student. We understand that every family has different circumstances, so any amount you can contribute is greatly appreciated. No donation is too small and if you are able to give more please do! Every dollar counts and will make a difference in our community goal. We are striving for 100% participation!
Why has the requested amount and campaign goal increased?
We have been operating at a deficit the last few years despite trimming costs and using funds from savings in order to avoid cutting major programs. Personnel costs continue to rise every year so it costs more to keep the same programs we love and expect at West Valley. Additionally, next year in 2025-2026 we will be losing ~$30,000 in district funds that used to cover 50% of Recess 101. This program and many others are at risk of budget cuts if we cannot raise enough funds to cover the gap.
When is the deadline for donating?
The 2024-2025 Direct Donation Drive campaign runs in the spring (March 5 through March 26). However, we gladly accept donations at any time.
How do I make a donation?
Click the Donate Now button to see all the options on how to donate. You can choose check, credit card (preferred), or your employer's corporate match program.
The suggested donation amount is $750 per student. We understand that every family has different circumstances, so any amount you can contribute is greatly appreciated. No donation is too small and if you are able to give more please do! Every dollar counts and will make a difference in our community goal. We are striving for 100% participation!
Why has the requested amount and campaign goal increased?
We have been operating at a deficit the last few years despite trimming costs and using funds from savings in order to avoid cutting major programs. Personnel costs continue to rise every year so it costs more to keep the same programs we love and expect at West Valley. Additionally, next year in 2025-2026 we will be losing ~$30,000 in district funds that used to cover 50% of Recess 101. This program and many others are at risk of budget cuts if we cannot raise enough funds to cover the gap.
When is the deadline for donating?
The 2024-2025 Direct Donation Drive campaign runs in the spring (March 5 through March 26). However, we gladly accept donations at any time.
How do I make a donation?
Click the Donate Now button to see all the options on how to donate. You can choose check, credit card (preferred), or your employer's corporate match program.
How are donations used?
Funds raised by this direct ask campaign will be used to support the large majority of the WVPTO budget for the upcoming school year. Examples of major costs include: ~$64,000: Two Instructional Aides providing Intervention Support ~$62,000: Recess 101 Program (CUSD previously covered ~50% but will not next year) ~$44,000: Art Program with certified Art Teacher ~$44,000: Librarian & Technology Media Specialist additional hours ~$10,000: Classroom funds ($500 per class) to be used at teacher’s discretion ~$7,000: Principal funds and school assemblies ~$5,000: Community events like Movie Nights, Family Science Night, Multicultural Festival |
Public school is supposed to be free. Why am I being asked to pay?
Public funding barely covers rising expenses and mandated programs. Without parent organization funding, many of the programs that enrich our children’s education would not be possible. The Cupertino Union School District has been severely impacted by California’s budget crisis. The materials, programs, and staffing funded directly by parent contributions are what will bridge the gap and keep our school performing at a level we are proud of and have come to expect, while also giving students valuable enrichment opportunities.
I can't afford the suggested donation amount. What should I do?
We would like for you to contribute what is comfortable for you. Every donation makes a difference. It is all the many individual donations that collectively add up to the grand total raised each year. We strive for 100% participation. Payment plan options are also available to help spread out the cost.
Is my donation tax deductible?
Yes, your donation is tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. The West Valley Parent Teacher Organization (WVPTO) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our Tax ID is 46-5663137.
Will I receive a receipt?
Yes, receipts will be sent to the email address provided for all donors who make online contributions to WVPTO or specify they would like to receive one. Please make sure to keep a copy for tax purposes. If a recurring payment option was selected, a receipt will be sent after all payments have been received.
I have additional questions. Who can I contact?
Please contact the Direct Donation Drive Committee at [email protected] or the WVPTO Board at [email protected].
Public funding barely covers rising expenses and mandated programs. Without parent organization funding, many of the programs that enrich our children’s education would not be possible. The Cupertino Union School District has been severely impacted by California’s budget crisis. The materials, programs, and staffing funded directly by parent contributions are what will bridge the gap and keep our school performing at a level we are proud of and have come to expect, while also giving students valuable enrichment opportunities.
I can't afford the suggested donation amount. What should I do?
We would like for you to contribute what is comfortable for you. Every donation makes a difference. It is all the many individual donations that collectively add up to the grand total raised each year. We strive for 100% participation. Payment plan options are also available to help spread out the cost.
Is my donation tax deductible?
Yes, your donation is tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. The West Valley Parent Teacher Organization (WVPTO) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our Tax ID is 46-5663137.
Will I receive a receipt?
Yes, receipts will be sent to the email address provided for all donors who make online contributions to WVPTO or specify they would like to receive one. Please make sure to keep a copy for tax purposes. If a recurring payment option was selected, a receipt will be sent after all payments have been received.
I have additional questions. Who can I contact?
Please contact the Direct Donation Drive Committee at [email protected] or the WVPTO Board at [email protected].