Frequently Asked Questions

Who can participate in the Foundation?

The Mesquite ISD Education Foundation, Inc. is all of us - parents, teachers, businesses and community members - working together to give the children of our community every opportunity to reach their full potential. Incorporated as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) in late 2004, the Foundation seeks current and endowed financial support from the community and corporate donors to provide and sustain opportunities for Mesquite's 35,000 students.

Why a foundation?

The Texas Constitution requires that the State of Texas provide an adequate education to its children. Regardless of proposed legislative changes being contemplated by the Texas Legislature or the Texas Supreme Court, we believe that there will continue to be a gap between the tax dollars available to fund an adequate education and the educational excellence that MISD parents and citizens have come to expect.

How is the Foundation funded?

Programs and activities of the Foundation will be funded by donations and interest earned on investment capital. In-kind and monetary gifts will be accepted from individuals, corporations and other foundations.

When will the funds be allocated?

The first grant for an extended year program will be funded in the summer of 2006.  Thereafter, programs will be funded as they are applied for and approved by the Board of Directors.  Programs fall in three categories: district initiatives, campus initiatives and student leadership grants.  future grants beyond 2006-07 may include fine arts, math, science, technology, professional development and recognition.

Is the Foundation a function of the MISD?

The Foundation is an independent, non-profit corporation governed by its own board of directors. That board is comprised of a cross section of the community, who has a vision for excellence to support the students and staff of MISD. The superintendent and board of trustees' president serve as ex officio members of the Foundation board.

How is the Foundation managed?

A Board of Directors, representing a broad spectrum of the community, manages the Foundation. They are governed by strict accounting requirements of a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation.  The board has adopted by-laws and governing policies.

What programs and projects does the Foundation support?

The Foundation supports programs in partnership with MISD and is the only vehicle for the entire community to support district-wide programs. The Board of Directors establishes funding priorities on an annual basis. Annual priorities may change from year to year, but always coincide with the MISD Strategic Plan. Funding priorities for 2006-2007 include:

• District Initiatives for Student Academic Enrichment (Up to $100,000)
• Campus Initiatives for Instructional Enhancement (Up to $2,500 per campus)
• Student Leadership Development Grants (Up to $1,000 per individual or $2,000 per campus)
• Future Foundation Initiatives (As Funding Becomes Available) which includes Fine Arts, Professional Development, Math, Science and Technology and Staff Recognition.

How much does the Foundation give away?

The Founding Donor goal is $500,000 which will cover start-up costs and the 2006-07 programs, as well as contributions to the endowment fund which ensures the perpetuity of the Foundation. The 2006-07 program expenditures may amount up to $300,000. The board has adopted a policy that governs percentages for each element of the budget:  60 percent will go for programs; 15 percent will go for administration; and 25 percent will be allocated to the endowment fund.

How is the money raised?

The primary fund-raising vehicle is the Founding Donor Campaign. The 2005 goal of $500,000 will fund the 2006-2007 priorities. The Foundation also applies to private foundations, civic groups, and a limited number of businesses for funds for specific projects.

Does the Foundation have an endowment?

The Foundation has established an Endowment Fund made up of the gifts of visionary early donors. The first endowment was established in honor of the retiring superintendent, Dr. James Terry. Eventually the Endowment Fund will provide a predictable source of income for academic and growth priorities. Already in place is a planned giving program to accept gifts of bequests through wills and other charitable arrangements.