Lee Elementary, Austin, Texas

Update as of 10/5/11:

77 families made a huge impact on our fundraising goal for the year, donating more than $16,300 to Cut to the Chase 2011-12. This critical funding is a massive part of our $75,000 goal and will allow us to strategically launch initiatives on Lee’s campus like technology upgrades, reading specialists, spanish language curriculum, outdoor learning infrastructure, professional development for teachers and other programmatic support across the school.

THANK YOU to those who contributed outright to Cut to the Chase, or set up monthly payments. You have helped to create a BRIGHTER FUTURE for our kids!

While Cut to the Chase formally ended on 10/1/11, we will still accept contributions throughout the year. Feel free to download the pledge form or donate online using a credit card. See buttons and form at right.

Did You Know?

Three years ago the PTA began to expand its vision of how we could enrich our children's learning experience at Lee by increasing our fundraising. At the start in '07-'08, we provided simple supplies such as electric pencil sharpeners and updated maps and globes in the classrooms! Since then, through the PTA's four year collective effort, we can now dream and fulfill educational opportunities for our kids both in and out of the classroom, like enhanced access to technology, foreign language curriculum, modern playgrounds, teacher support, educational materials and more.

The Roadrunner “Cut to the Chase” Fundraiser allows you to be a vital part of sustaining the programs below which are funded by the PTA. To achieve our community's vision this year our goal is to raise approximately $77,000. With as little as $15 per month for a year (per student) we can fully fund these programs. Of course, any amount you can donate helps us reach our goal and is greatly appreciated. All contributions are tax-deductible.

Now, with your support, the PTA is able to maintain the following programs at Lee:

Technology – Our goal is to continue to bring Lee's technological abilities up to date. Did you know the teachers currently rotate a laptop station between classrooms? The school has 29 laptops and 430 students. Additional computers, printers and accessories are needed in order to continue to provide the students with the education they need to succeed in Technology.

Teacher Support - Provides additional funds for teachers to purchase materials for their classroom. Depending on the needs year-to-year this fund provides teachers with additional educational material for the students. It also includes professional development. Courses and needs vary year to year. In the past teachers have been able to take additional Math, Science,
Writing and Social Studies training courses.

Reading Specialist - Last year the teachers requested additional support from Lee's Reading Specialist. It's estimated that approximately 10% of the students (in all grades) require additional reading assistance.

Playground – The PTA funded approximately $15,000 to provide new playground equipment. The goal is to continue to enhance areas under the oak trees and supplement existing equipment.

Enrichment - Provides financial support for school performances, Geography Day, Science Fair, substitute teachers during parent conferences and classroom materials.

Spanish - The Spanish program is made possible through generous donations from Lee parents as well as from fundraising events. Funding pays for the Spanish teacher to provide 30-minute classes, materials and trainings.

The PTA's goal is to provide funds to enhance the academic experience of our children at Lee, but more importantly, it also strives to build a greater sense of community by strengthening and nurturing the connection amongst students, teachers and parents. Other fundraising events that help support the PTA's academic and community building goals are: Gift Wrap, Halloween Carnival, Grocery Cards, LeeLive!, T-shirt sales, Square 1 Art and the Book Fair!

Welcome to all of you who are new to Lee, and to all the returning parents! Please join us as we continue to create a vision for the future of our children's experience here at Lee.

We look forward to another great year!

Thank you for your support of Lee Elementary School!

Questions?
Email Vianey Camorlinga at: vcluv@grandecom.net or call 512-799-5469