Fundraisers have been a part of Pace’s efforts to raise money for school spirit. They often happen at least once a month whether it’s held by Student Government Organization or other clubs and sports.
However, a couple major question that still stand are: “ Why so many bake sales? and “Where does the money go?”
Many schools have fundraisers to support special programs and Pace is no different. Like many New York City public schools, Pace has a majority of low income families. Unlike some other schools in New York City, our parent association isn’t able to raise a lot of extra money to support clubs and extra programs. Students’ efforts to raise money goes a long way as our SGO comes together to plan fundraisers in order to improve the overall experience for all students.
Assistant Principal Mr. Sowkiski said, “There’s some schools that I have visited where there are fundraising sales daily, like the middle school’s parent association running a store every day at lunch. So I don’t see it as being so many bake sales, but these all are bake sales that are organized by students as fundraisers.”
He also said, “Income generated from bake sales usually range from $100-$200 and a record is kept by the club or organization.
SGO treasurer Talia Tetteh said, “SGO fundraiser funds are often used for necessities and to plan out events for Pace, however when we have leftover money we keep it in an emergency fund.”
Mr. Zoboi, the SGO advisor oversees the financial aspect of the bake sales. Before a bake sale, you need to go through a process. Previously, you’d just be able to bring in treats and host your own bake sale, but now “you need to go through Mr. Sowiski to organize a bake sale,” Mr. Zoboi said.
Many other organizations and programs host bake sales to raise funds for necessities. The girls softball team recently had a bake sale to raise funds for gear and jerseys.
Most fundraisers are successful and the senior committee of Pace also raises funds for senior trips, activities and to improve the day to day experience here at Pace.
Tetteh said, “Pace High School fundraisers bring the Pace community together by creating connections through the consistent support students give at these events.”
Bake sales also bring benefits apart from being profitable. Some students may not be able to go outside for lunch and these fundraisers provide a chance for students to get a little snack for lunch.
To keep these fundraisers happening, organizations have to make sure proper procedure is being followed. As well, the group must show that whatever money raised will be utilized on behalf of the club or the school community at large.
