Often, parents do not realize that CPS schools only receive funding for limited programs and classes. If a school chooses to offer more to its students, it must find a way to raise the additional money to compensate for the gap in funding.

A good example of this is our art program. CPS typically provides funding for either art or music. Currently, Hawthorne receives funding for our Music Department. However, our Administration thankfully recognizes the importance of art for its students. Therefore, each year the art program is funded by outside sources (PTA and SIPAAA funds).

There are many other examples of programs that might appear to be part of the standard public school curriculum but are actually "elective" for each school. This is why the PTA's vision/goals and its ability to raise money are so important to our students. Hawthorne would not be the school that it is today without PTA fundraising efforts. These efforts must continue and grow as more program funding is eliminated or reduced on both the state and local levels each year. Our PTA initiatives are critical to the success of the school.

This year PTA funds (raised in 2008-2009) will provide for:

• Additional SMART Boards
• Licensing of Study Island
• Stretch ‘N Grow science and physical education program
• Expanded classroom libraries
• Materials & Professional development for the Illinois Writing Project
• LCD Projectors and Laptops
• Classroom Area Rugs for the Primary Grades
• Listening Centers for the Primary Classrooms
• Junior High Dances
• Ongoing Staff Development for Curriculum Mapping
• Instructional Resources

PTA funds also support the popular Arts Partnership and Picture Person programs and we support the sports teams. Additionally, we cover ongoing expenses such as computer office supplies and teacher classroom stipends.