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September 9, 2009

Dear Coeur d'Alene Families:

Welcome to the 2009-2010 school year and to the launch of the Coeur d'Alene Annual Giving Fund.

We know you are committed to providing your children with an education of the highest caliber.  We also know that our country, state and citizens are going through some of the most difficult times we will ever see in our lifetime.

Many of us have been forced to consider what life would be like if we had to live without something we take for granted, from small luxuries to vacations, to jobs.  Our children's education is something, I believe we all agree, we can't take for granted.

Many of us paid for our children to go to Pre School, yet when we get to public elementary school, we expect it to be free or that our "taxes" will cover the costs.  Unfortunately, that is just not the case.

When we were students, public school meant all programs were included at no additional cost.  Art, PE, aides, school supplies, etc. were the norm.  But now, as we all have come to realize, funds from the state and Los Angeles Unified School District are very limited and we must rely on ourselves, the parents and our community, more and more to help fund our children's education.

Each year the booster club, Friends of Coeur d'Alene, raises money to provide things that our school district does not cover.  Each year they cover less and less which is why we must all work together to give the school and kids what they need!

Last year's funds are paying for this year's: (3) 6 hour aides, (2) 3- hour aides, PS Arts donation, summer work done on computers, maintenance contracts on copy machines, supplemental classroom materials, poetry teacher, mental health services and 10k towards our Physical Education program.  Left over funds is earmarked for emergency spending at the discretion of our principal.

This year more than ever we need the participation of our parents to make up for the short falls we are facing.

Our goal is to reach 100% family participation.  By investing whatever is comfortable for your family you will help us reach our goal and ensure that your child has a quality public school education.

Every donation regardless of the amount is appreciated, although we strongly suggest $800 per child, which you can pay in one lump sum or on a monthly basis.

Ask your employer about a corporate matching program that could double your contribution.

Please feel free to contact me or the leaders of the booster club if you have any questions or need any clarification.

Venice is such a wonderful community and we are all so lucky to live here.  Let's work together towards the highest quality education for all of our children, the future leaders of this great country.

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YES! I want to make a difference in my child's education:

Our family's contribution for 2009 – 2010 is:

Donations are tax deductible and kept strictly confidential.  However, if you are willing, we would like to acknowledge your participation by including your name in our newsletter and website.

____  Please list our name as:______________________________

____  Please do not list my name, we prefer to be anonymous

Enclosed is a check for $_______ payable to Friends of Coeur d'Alene.  Please note we prefer checks as we pay a 3% charge for all credit card donations.

Please charge my credit card: Amex ____ Master Card____ Visa_____

Monthly _________ One Time Donation__________

Credit Card Number________________________

Expiration date_____________________________

Signature required__________________________

Print Name_________________________________

All this information is available on our website – www.cdaelementary.org

Sincerely,

Ivette Rodriguez/ Chair, Annual Giving & CdA Parent - Ivette@aem-la.com