giving back

Dollars 4 Schools

Created by Michael and Patricia French in 2010, Dollars4Schools’ grassroots model provides Santa Fe public-school teachers with a local web-based “helping-hand” in funding classroom programs. Dollars4Schools transitioned to the Santa Fe Community Foundation in 2013, and to date has funded nearly 700 programs - including 92 in the current 2017-18 school year, thanks to the incredible support of our community of friends and donors who make it all possible.

Dollars4Schools is honored to have such valuable community partners, and recognizes with sincere gratitude our friends at ShowHouse Santa Fe. Since its premiere in 2013 – the extraordinary design event has raised over $140,000 in support of Dollars4Schools and enriched the lives of thousands of Santa Fe students by providing funding to over 250 Santa Fe teachers. We are honored to have such an amazing partner and friend, and it is with great excitement and appreciation that we announce that ShowHouse Santa Fe continues its heartfelt commitment to Dollars4Schools - as preparations are underway for ShowHouse Santa Fe 2018 – our sixth fabulous year working together in support of public education in Santa Fe!

Dollars4Schools recognizes the good work of Santa Fe's community of dedicated teachers, and we are honored to provide support for 36 Santa Fe schools. We are 100% committed to student success and always available as a resource for Santa Fe teachers and principals to submit their funding requests, and for our friends and donors to show their support. Dollars4Schools supports the mission of Santa Fe Public Schools and Superintendent Dr. Veronica C. Garcia - in our shared commitment to public education in Santa Fe.

How does Dollars4Schools work?

Santa Fe teachers and principals submit their programs on our website. They describe the program, how many students (and grades) it will serve and in what program area (such as literacy, math, basic needs etc.) it falls. They also request the money they need to complete the program. Community donors can then look on the site, view the programs and the funding needs, and donate to a particular program, program area or school…it’s that easy!

How does the teacher get the money?

When the funding is completed for a program, the Santa Fe Community Foundation disburses the funds in one of three ways: 1. Directly to the teacher, who then must submit receipts for the program expenses; 2. Directly to a specific school or program within Santa Fe Public Schools, or 3. To one of our non-profit partner programs to support their work with students.

Is the money I donate tax-deductible?

Yes, Dollars4Schools is an initiative of the Santa Fe Community Foundation, a 501(C)3 corporation, and all donations are tax-deductible to the extent provided by law.

Is my donation used for administration?

No. 100% of any money donated to a program, program area or school, goes entirely to that need. Every dollar donated to Dollars4Schools goes directly in to a Santa Fe classroom or school.