Why are there so many paid events in U.S. public schools?

I’ve been getting around 10 emails in the past two weeks from my kid’s public school — all about paid events, donations, or auctions.
At first I was confused — isn’t public education supposed to be free?

After digging in, I finally understood how it works here 👇

1. “Free” education is… only the basics

Yes, U.S. public schools don’t charge tuition.
Teacher salaries, facilities, and core classes are covered by state and local taxes.

But things like:

• school concerts, art shows, sports teams,
• updated instruments, stage lights, or equipment,
• guest coaches or visiting artists — none of that is really covered by the government budget.

So, parents and the community often become the “second funding line.”
That’s where PTOs (Parent-Teacher Organizations) or school foundations step in.

2. How they raise money (some are actually pretty fun)

Here are some real examples from our school district lately:
1️⃣ Auction – local businesses and parents donate items like a “VIP graduation seat” or “chef lunch with the principal,” and families bid online.
2️⃣ Fun Run – $25 per participant; all proceeds go to grade-level scholarships.
3️⃣ Haunted House Fundraiser – high school students design and run it, parents buy tickets.

It’s fundraising… but with community spirit (and creativity).

3. Why parents still join in

At first, I felt overwhelmed — so many donation emails!
But then I realized: these events aren’t just about money.
They help kids learn teamwork, gratitude, and community involvement.

Parents also feel more connected to the school — it’s not just “my kid’s school,” it’s our community project.

1. The bigger picture

These “paid” activities make kids realize that education resources aren’t automatic — they’re built by people who care.
It’s a small but meaningful way to teach social responsibility.

As a first gen immigrant to US, I have a question for you all: Have you experienced the same thing at your school?
Do you think these fundraisers are good community-building, or too much for families already stretched thin?

Submitted October 21, 2025 at 02:37PM by Suspicious_Bee_7595 https://ift.tt/QqgGPU7