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My kids had barely settled into their new school when fundraising announcements started pouring in. I couldn’t help but groan when they handed me those papers. I understand schools need funds—there never seems to be enough. Increased funding means more resources for our children and better salaries for teachers. However, I draw the line at having my kids sell overpriced items like apple-scented candles, flimsy wrapping paper, and cookie dough just to earn ten-cent trinkets. Absolutely not.
I have several concerns about this model. Luckily, we can simply write a check to the school and toss the fundraising materials. However, I recognize that many families don’t have that luxury. Instead of turning kids into little salespeople, I believe schools should explore alternative methods.
The Issues with Traditional School Fundraisers
Before diving into solutions, let’s discuss the issues with traditional school fundraisers. I feel for lower-income families who don’t have the option to participate in selling items. Growing up in a low-income school district, I saw classmates come to school in worn clothes and without basic hygiene. Job prospects were scarce, especially for those without a college degree, and many parents were stuck in minimum-wage jobs that barely covered living expenses.
Fundraising efforts often rely on the sales abilities of students. Kids are incentivized to sell a certain amount, usually for lackluster prizes, like a $5 gift card or an eraser. Higher sales yield better prizes, like pizza parties for the top-selling classes. While these incentives may entice children, the entire approach is steeped in classism. Those with more financial resources come out on top, while others are left feeling inadequate.
Not every student has parents who can supervise their sales efforts or the time to transport them around the neighborhood. If a child’s family and friends are also struggling financially, how can we expect them to achieve sales goals? Many people simply don’t have the extra cash to spend on subpar merchandise for the sake of a kid earning a shiny pencil.
It’s clear that students with more affluent parents, who have the time and resources to support sales, will dominate these fundraising efforts. This just creates a culture where those who can afford to spend more are rewarded, while those who cannot are left feeling embarrassed. Additionally, once the items arrive, parents must dedicate time and money to distribute them—a further demonstration of privilege.
You might argue that many fundraisers have moved online; however, access to these platforms is often limited to families with reliable internet and devices. Not everyone has the means to participate in these online sales, which raises further concerns about equity.
I don’t blame schools for needing to raise funds; the current system is flawed, with many teachers spending their own money on classroom supplies. While money alone can’t solve all issues, it can certainly alleviate some burdens.
Proposed Solutions
So, what can we do instead of pushing kids to sell items? First, let’s eliminate the sales pitches altogether. I’ve never encountered a product from a school fundraiser that was worth the effort. We should also remove the incentivizing prizes based on sales. No more parties for top sellers; instead, let’s have a whole-school celebration where every student is treated equally. Why should children from lower-income families feel ashamed while their wealthier peers bask in rewards?
Schools should be straightforward about their financial needs and invite donations from families without the pressure of sales. A clear message that every contribution matters can foster a sense of community. If the school opts for a celebration, it should be one where every student receives the same recognition.
Some parents argue that students should “earn” what they get, but I appreciate initiatives like walk-a-thons where kids can raise funds without the stigma of selling products. These events ensure 100% of the proceeds go to the school and not a third-party company profiting from cheap goods.
Children should be allowed to be just that—children. They can learn valuable lessons about hard work at home without needing to become salespeople. Just because fundraising has always been done a certain way doesn’t mean it has to continue. There are better, more equitable alternatives that minimize financial shame. Parents can get involved with PTA committees or share this perspective with school leaders. It’s time to shift away from making children peddle items and instead focus on fostering a supportive environment for all.
This article was originally published on November 16, 2021.
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In summary, school fundraising efforts often exacerbate existing inequalities, leaving lower-income families at a disadvantage. Instead of traditional sales-based models, schools could adopt more inclusive fundraising practices that treat all students equally and focus on community support.