Phone-a-Thon Comes a-Calling

Mercer Island's public schools are consistently ranked at the top of the state, but according to the , it takes a community effort to stay there.

Thanks to continuing funding shortfalls from state coffers, the Mercer Island Schools Foundation's Nov. 7 & 8 Phone-a-Thon has taken on an ever-increasing importance to maintain the quality programs offered in Mercer Island schools. Donations from the community are critical to providing the quality of education our community expects and our children deserve.

Every year, priority funding requests asked for during the annual Phone-a-Thon campaign support critical K-12 programs in core academics, enrichment and citizenship. According to Mercer Island Schools Foundation President Penny Yantis, about 95 of all classroom textbooks are funded by MISF donations to the school district.

"When your phone rings, please answer the call!" Yantis said.

The classroom materials will be used daily by students and teachers to maintain the highest level academic standards during the 2011-2012 school year. Funding will also be used to support teachers who are pursuing the highest level in their profession, National Board Certification.   

Last year, the MISF brought in $360,545. This year's funding goal is to raise $429,900.  

Donations to the Mercer Island Schools Foundation will fund:

• K-5 Math and Science materials
• K-5 Math Enrichment
• Middle School Manadrin Chinese Curriulum and textbooks
• High School Biology Curriculum and textbooks
• 8th Grade NovelsK-12 Fine Arts
• AP Comparative Government Curriculum and Textbooks
• School Improvement Plans at MIHS, IMS and all 3 Elementary SchoolsC
• Classroom Enrichment Grants for teachers for innovative projects that enrich curriculum
• Support of Struggling Learners
• High School Bridges
• IMS Where Everybody Belongs

On-line donations can be made at www.mercerislandschoolsfoundation.com/donate