FAQ

Why does the Cedarburg School District need an Education Foundation?
The Cedarburg School District relies on property tax revenues to support our schools' instructional programs. Since 1993, the school district has been subject to revenue caps imposed by the State of Wisconsin that limit the ability to raise funds through the property tax. District staff members have many creative ideas for additional programming which are not possible to achieve within the existing limited budget. The Cedarburg Education Foundation (CEF) will enable staff members to implement some of their best ideas.

What will the CEF do with the donations it receives?
CEF will fund selected annual projects proposed by staff as well as create lasting foundation monies to grow the endowment pool of dollars available for future projects.

How can you make a contribution?
There are a variety of tax deductible ways that you can give. Please click on the Donate option above.

How does CEF decide what projects receive funding?
CEF has created a Review Committee which will accumulate proposals, review them for applicability to guidelines and make funding recommendations. The committee is comprised of CEF Board members and representatives of District administration who are familiar with the annual budget to ensure the projects are outside of the normal district budget parameters.

What types of projects are eligible?
CEF will encourage projects that will inspire students to succeed and are beyond the limits of the traditional school district budget. Here are a few samples of projects that have been funded by foundations in other school districts:

- All 8th graders in one district were sent to a Ropes and Challenge course.
- Elementary school students in another district participated in science workshops sponsored by UW-Milwaukee.
- A "Lunch Bunch Book Club" was created for 4th & 5th graders utilizing additional reading materials purchased by education foundation monies.
- Special needs students utilized the purchase of equipment to create a cookie business which funds additional outings for those students.

Can I direct my contribution to a specific project?
Donations in excess of $10,000 may be utilized to create a lasting contribution which may annually fund a specific project such as the newly created Jim Ross Author in Residence program at Webster Transitional School.

How does the Cedarburg Education Foundation (CEF) differ from the Cedarburg Community Scholarship Foundation (CCSF)?
Both are non-profit volunteer organizations committed to helping Cedarburg students. The CEF utilizes donations to enhance the educational experience while students are still enrolled in the Cedarburg school system. The CCSF provides scholarships to help students fund their continued education after they graduate from high school.