Frequently Asked Questions

One of the College Community School District’s best friends is the Prairie School Foundation. It is the preferred channel for private contributions that benefit all areas of the school district meeting the needs beyond those provided for by state support as the district strives to reach new levels of distinction.

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Prairie School Foundation (PSF):

What is a Foundation?

A foundation is an institution typically funded by outright gifts of cash, gifts-in-kind or bequests to aid education, research, the arts, religious organizations etc.

Why Was the PSF Created?

During the late 1970’s declining enrollment, budget issues and staff reductions created challenges for the school board. College Community’s Board of Education asked the district’s superintendent to explore the creation of a foundation.

When Was the PSF Organized?

It was organized as a non-profit corporation, 501(c)(3) in 1981 and it was the first public school foundation in Iowa.

What Was the Mission of the PSF?

The foundation was to provide financial enhancement to the school district and touch as many students as possible with supplemental income above and beyond what the tax base could provide and have a long-term impact on the College Community School District. The mission has remained virtually unchanged through the years. Its first gift to the district included three Apple computers in the year 1983. These were the very first computers on campus.

Who Manages the PSF?

The Foundation is operated independently from, but in cooperation with, the College Community School District. It is managed by a volunteer Board of Trustees from school district residents that elects its officers and appoints its staff. Board members come from many backgrounds including homemakers, business leaders and owners, teachers, financial and legal professionals, and farmers.

How Large is the PSF Staff?

The staff is composed of an Executive Director who holds a half-time position and an Operations Manager who holds a one-fourth time position.

How Does the PSF Raise Money?

There is an annual mailing to Prairie Parents and other supporters for the Kids Fund. Gifts can be made in cash, by credit card, and matching gifts from participating employers. Funds may also come to the foundation through bequests, gifts-in-kind and from earnings on the endowment. In addition, there are several very popular annual fundraising events including Prairie Fest and the Prairie Hawk Golf Challenge.

What Does the PSF Do With Its Funds?

Each year a budget is created to set aside funds for annual allocations and special projects. The allocations program divides the funds set aside by the number of Prairie Students. Each Prairie School Building then has a specific number of dollars to utilize based on their respective student numbers. A committee composed of teachers and an administrator who review and select ideas for the use of their designated funds to meet the needs they have identified for each building.

What Type of Items Do Teachers Typically Request For Their Schools?

Some of the most recent requests include: scientific calculators and science scales for the High School, a 3D printer for a student lab, an exercise bike for Special Education students, a brand new Art Room for Point, STEM bins for Creek, Phonics Manuals for Crest, a kiln for art classes at Heights, Apple pencils and a new projector for school assemblies for Hill, iPads and smart TVs for Ridge, a coding robot at View, pyramid model kits for the ECC, noise canceling headphones for Edge, bilingual library books for ELL students, and rhythm instruments to enrich the choir curriculum.

What Special Projects Get Funded?

Most recently the PSF Board has given funds to provide more clubs for students including the new Ag Club started in 2018. Participation in student clubs has proven to improve grades, increase student retention and graduation rates. The foundation also provided funding for a reading program at Point, and funds for music programs through PMA.

In 2022, Prairie Heights was provided with a brand new kiln that all students get to use in art class.

In 2024, PSF funded a garden for the Ag Program. This garden is a helpful part of the curriculum as students learn to grow and cultivate food, and also provides fresh produce for the Prairie Cares Food Pantry that serves kids in need at the High School.

Who Can I Contact with Additional Questions?

For additional information about the Prairie School Foundation please contact the Executive Director, Randy Rumery at 319-530-3372 rrumery@crprairie.org.