Guide to Elementary School Fundraisers

Elementary school fundraisers are a vital part of the education ecosystem. Not only does fundraising bring in much needed money for things like enrichment programs and campus improvements, but it also creates amazing memories for both volunteers and students. Drawing from extensive experience helping schools organize events, this guide aims to help you put on your best elementary school fundraiser yet.

In this blog, you’ll learn more about:

• ​The Benefits of School Fundraising
• ​Different Types of Fundraisers for Your School
• ​Multiple Ways Booster Can Help with Your Fundraiser

The importance of elementary school fundraising

One of the most obvious reasons elementary school fundraisers are so important is the dire underfunding of U.S. schools. The money that elementary school fundraisers bring in supplements school budgets in order to pay for programs and resources necessary for children to grow academically and personally.

Examples of projects achieved through elementary school fundraisers include:

• ​Enrichment programs in STEAM and more
• ​Extracurricular activities like chess and debate teams
• ​Supplies and equipment
• ​Improvements to school facilities

Beyond financial benefits, fundraising brings together students, teachers, administration, families, and community members, strengthening the bonds between schools and their communities. These events create lasting memories for everyone involved while supporting student development both in school and beyond.

Elementary school is a crucial time in students’ development. Children spend the early grades not just building core academic skills but also building self-esteem, finding their values, and learning how to relate well with others. When students participate in fundraisers, they have the opportunity to practice valuable life skills while having fun. This is part of why Booster’s character program is so popular and successful.

What makes elementary school fundraisers special

While certain elements of school fundraising are consistent across all grades—such as providing financial support for educational programs, technology, and campus improvements—there are important differences at the elementary level.

With younger students, PTAs/PTOs have a unique opportunity to get kids involved and possibly even integrate fundraising with academics. For example, fundraising gives students an opportunity to learn basic math skills related to money and budgeting.

Elementary school fundraisers can also be more hands-on than at higher grades, where students tend to be more independent. Events that emphasize fun, movement, and socialization can be especially valuable for elementary school kids.

The best elementary school fundraiser ideas

The best elementary school fundraisers get kids involved in fun, educational ways, inviting them to be a central part of improving their school experience. Booster specializes in fundraisers that are great for kids, such as:

Fun Runs

Helping children grow into healthy, successful teens and adults involves much more than academics. Fundraisers are also a great opportunity to support students’ physical wellbeing. Fun runs aren’t just a tried-and-true way to contribute to your school budget, but they’re also a great way to get kids outside and moving, emphasizing the importance of exercise for a healthy, balanced life.

Dance Events

Dancing is another engaging way to fundraise. Booster partners with Just Dance, the popular video game, to provide a unique dance fundraiser for schools. These events offer a fun and active way for students to participate and raise funds.

These are just a few of the many ways to raise funds for elementary schools while having fun along the way.

Elementary school fundraising tips

Ideas are great, but the best elementary school fundraisers also require lots of careful planning. Follow the tips below to maximize your funds while keeping donors and volunteers happy:

• ​Identify fundraising goals, including what funds will be used for and how much you’ll need. PTA surveys can help glean information from teachers and administration about what the school needs most.
• ​Choose fundraising events that fit your goals – for example, do you want an event day targeting a specific project, or a long-term fundraiser such as a Spirit Wear store to raise general funds on an ongoing basis?
• ​Use a mix of fundraiser types throughout the year to maximize your funds. Creating a PTA/PTO action plan can help organize all your goals and events.
• ​Use parent volunteer forms to organize volunteers and delegate tasks appropriately.
• ​Don’t forget to promote your fundraiser, especially on social media!

Work with the experts

Elementary school fundraising is a core focus for Booster. With extensive experience and proven results, Booster provides tools and expert guidance every step of the way, from planning to event day. Find out more about how Booster can help your school put on its best elementary school fundraiser yet!