About the Mt. Rainier High School Foundation

Challenge

Since January 2001, Mt. Rainier principal Toni Pace, alumni and parents have come together in recognition of the increasingly vital role that private support plays in public education. Through a process of discussion and review, the Mt. Rainier High School Foundation was incorporated in the State of Washington in June 2001. This non-profit foundation will provide leadership and support in gathering resources for the academic, arts, athletic, extracurricular, and enrichment needs of Mt. Rainier High School. We are currently in the process of developing the endowment for the Foundation.

History

Public education is at a critical juncture. Schools such as Mt. Rainier High School face increasing competition from private schools, faith-based schools, and other public high schools. While many of us wish that local, state and federal funding provided for the needs of all public school students, the reality is that public dollars are simply inadequate.

Vision

The Mt. Rainier High School Foundation will build and perpetuate a legacy of excellence in all areas of the school through the development of an endowment fund that supports the premise that all children deserve special treatment. We know we cannot solve all of the school's funding needs through the foundation. But the Foundation can make a significant, positive difference. Building this Foundation now not only enriches the school and community but also creates a path for excellence that outlasts any individual program, administration, or plan. It will ensure a level of present and future stable funding and successful programs that will benefit all students and all programs.

Foundation Governance

The Foundation is governed by a Board of Directors, which is accountable for all of its ongoing managerial, operational and fiduciary responsibilities. We are in the process of recruiting additional members for the Board. We are seeking interested alumni, community members, and parents of students to help build and manage the Foundation and its endowment. We are looking for a commitment of 1 to 3 years with meetings the first year occurring on a monthly basis.

There will also be an Advisory Board to assist in developing the set of funding priorities. The Advisory Board would include representation from the school administration, faculty, parents and community to recommend priorities in alignment with the school's strategic direction

However, ultimate responsibility for the collection and disbursement of any funds rests solely with the Foundation Board of Directors.