What is the purpose of the Prairie Fund?

To provide resources, beyond tax funding, to stimulate excellence at Prairie by supporting delivery of special programs and services to enhance the learning environment for the children attending the school, increasing the effectiveness of instruction at the school, and strengthening ties between the school and the community.

What positions did the Prairie Fund contribute to last school year?

The Prairie Fund pays for three half-time staff positions at our school: School Counselor, Reading Specialist, and Math Specialist. Click  here  to learn more about why we fund these programs.

How were these positions selected?

The positions were selected after input from parents and teachers. Over time, the Prairie Fund has  supported the nurse and the counselor and programs in Spanish, reading and math.

Are there restrictions to the positions the Prairie Fund can support?

Yes, per district guidelines, only supplemental positions may be funded by parent groups.

How do parents provide input to the Prairie Fund?

Parents may provide feedback through our email address, by attending the State of the School each fall or by contacting a board member. We will also perform parental surveys if a change in state funding or parental funding occurs as well as in the year after a change in positions funded.

Who employs and evaluates the positions?

The Prairie Fund funded positions are employed by the school and district just like any other position. As such, they are evaluated by the principal in adherence to district standards.

Who makes up the Prairie Fund?

The Prairie Fund is made up of a diverse group of parent volunteers, one of the incoming PTA presidents, the principal (non-voting member) and a teacher representative (non-voting member). Board members serve a two-year term with a two-term maximum.

How do I join the Prairie Fund?

Each November, application instructions are advertised in the PTA newsletter for new members. A slating committee composed of both current Prairie Fund members and other non-Prairie Fund parents review all applications received and create a slate to be presented for voting at the PTA Variety Show.

Who oversees the Prairie Fund?

The Prairie Fund is not a separate legal entity. We manage our funds with two separate charitable organizations, Shawnee Mission Educational Foundation (SMEF) and Greater Kansas City Community Foundation (GKCCF) to obtain tax deductions for our donors. Our operating funds are housed at SMEF. The SMEF board provides oversight and direction and
approves all funding requests for positions, grants, etc. Our investment funds are housed at GKCCF. The GKCCF provides oversight and direction and approves all funding requests. Our intention for this fund is to house our surplus for investment purposes. We have not distributed any funds from this account to date.

How does the Prairie Fund work with the PTA?

The PTA and Prairie Fund work closely throughout the year on the needs of the school. We coordinate fund management and overall parental concerns together.

How do I donate to the Prairie Fund?

Cash donations can be sent directly to the school or made online. Donations should be made to SMEF/Prairie Fund or GKCCF/Prairie Fund for tax deduction purposes. Online donations can be made here.

How do I contact the Prairie Fund?

You may email us at prairiefundsmsd@gmail.com or contact a board member.