Year-End Budget Review for 2023-2024
As we wrap up the year, I’d like to provide a review of our financials and highlight some key
points regarding our budget and fundraising efforts.

Starting the Year: We began the year with a balance of $64,341.78. Our initial plan was to
spend $23,248 and raise $16,675. The goal was to use some of the funds we already had in the
bank and avoid over-fundraising.

Fundraising Efforts: To offset some of our costs, we utilized several fundraising strategies,
including restaurant nights, the book fair, and free money programs. We also successfully
fundraised the replacement of the basketball hoop on the blacktop.
End-of-Year Financials: By the end of the year, we spent a total of $16,182.96 and raised
$16,856.62, which left us with a surplus of $673.66.

Highlights and Adjustments:
● We were able to stay under budget for Harvest Fest, spending only $731 out of $1800,
and the Sweetheart Dance was a success, bringing in $1,409. However, for next year,
we will cap the Sweetheart Dance at $15 per couple or $30 per family to better keep in
line with our goals of not over charging parents for the event. Break-even would be ideal.
● The 2nd grade zoo request and the 4th grade virtual field trip did not take place,
leaving $1,830 in unspent funds.
● The chess team never got a coordinator, so $150 allocated for this was not spent.
● Our planned one-time purchases for school benches and the gaga pit were also not
completed. The funds for the benches will roll over into next year, while the gaga pit
project will be tabled until a suitable solution is found.
● Additionally, we will roll over the funds for the basketball hoops to next year.

Looking Ahead: Overall, we successfully came in under budget for the year. Next year, we plan
to continue with similar events and activities, without relying on a major fundraiser. We will focus
on leveraging free money programs like Box Tops for Education, the Annual Gift Campaign,
as well as continuing with restaurant nights and a few low-key parents’ nights.
Thank you all for your continued support and participation in making this year a financial
success. We look forward to another great year ahead!