Instruction Support Fund

Goals of the Fund:

In a time of ever shrinking education budgets and increasing demands for innovation the PSCO acknowledges that school staff are often faced with too many things to accomplish and not enough time, talent or treasure to accomplish them.

In support of the staff at West the West PSCO has established the Instructional Support Fund.  Currently, the money available in this fund comes largely from the profits of the annual Harvest Festival.  The PSCO plans to engage in additional fundraising efforts to make more money available in this fund.

Who is eligible for funding - any staff person at West who directly works with students on a regular basis.

While not a requirement staff are encouraged to become active members of the PSCO and to participate in the planning, set up or implementation of fundraisers, programs or events sponsored by the PSCO.  It is through these efforts that money for the fund is raised.

How much are they eligible for - up to $100.00 annually.  This amount may be adjusted as more money becomes available.

What can the funds cover - any instructional purchases necessary to improve or augment work with students excluding food.  Requests might include:

* Contributions towards field trip costs (bus rental or entrance fees)

* Teaching materials for particular modules

* Materials for class projects or exhibitions

The materials should directly benefit students and be of use by students directly.

How are funds disbursed - staff should send an email request to the PSCO Treasurer at least one week before they plan to incur the costs for the purchases.  The Treasurer will confirm they are eligible expenses.  Once the purchase is made the staff person should submit the receipts and a request for funds to the Treasurer who will reimburse the eligible expenses, up to $100.00, by check within two weeks.  As an alternative the staff person can submit a list of items to the PSCO for purchase directly.  The list should include links to websites where the materials can be purchased. Purchases by the PSCO will be made online only.

Staff may request reimbursement at any time during the school year.  Opportunity to access funds resets each August for the forthcoming school year.

Why only after the purchases is made or purchased directly - The PSCO is a 501c3 tax exempt organization, recognized by the IRS.  In order to comply with IRS regulations we must account for all expenditures and ensure they are spent on items and for activities that comply with federal regulations.  By requiring notification of the types of expenses and receipts we can ensure we maintain good standing with the IRS.