Middle School Fund Raising

Middle school fundraising is not quite an easy feat as that of elementary schools. But there are proven strategies that have worked with the parents of children in middle school. The children are right in the “middle” as their educational expectations are not as high as they would be in high school nor is there enthusiasm as much as kids from elementary. This is the age when parents start to disengage from controlling all facets of their children’s lives. Their involvement becomes less which also results in lowering participation for school events including fund raising.

The children are beginning to discover more about themselves. Their likes and hobbies are becoming more defined. So, activities that promote these will ensure greater participation. Unlike clear–cut and segmented high school where each one has already chosen their area of interest and can be marketed from that vantage point, middle schools students are still in the process of discovery. It’s like they might have to come to the event itself to find out if they like it.

Make sure all activities are tuned towards personalization. If it doesn’t involve the kids or interest them on an individual level, they will very likely not turn up. Try taking a survey before the event and find out what they’re looking forward to. You could group them into different sections with particular responsibilities during the event. Their participation should not be for free and must be compensated with points or other incentives. Making them work toward a goal, helping them achieve it and rewarding is the way to go about it. You don’t need to give away movie or game tickets; the prize need not be that non-educational. Maybe, an extra field trip where the participants get to ride for free. But, whatever prize is chosen, make sure that the children are enthused to work for achieving that. And, lastly, keep reminding and encouraging them about the date of the fund raiser.

Some of the products that sell with the middle school crowd are bags, water bottles, tea towels, t-shirts, hand sanitizers, and accessories like school fridge magnets and key rings. School fridge magnets are particularly popular with the parents as well as they can be useful for reminding about important school calendar dates. The key rings are also a popular choice during fund raising events. The school fridge magnets can have calendars on them with the important school dates. It’s easier than checking up in the diary. Magnetic calendars with contact information and the school logos are generally appreciated by all parents. School refirgerator magnets can be customized for special events like an anniversary or the school winning a local tournament. Children love these mementos. Besides, the magnets and key rings do not cost much either.