I pay millage. Why should I contribute to the foundation?
It’s a fact: there’s a gap! State funding is the majority of the funding that Michigan school districts receive. Lakeshore Public Schools are in the bottom 16% of the public school districts that receive state funding. 84% of the districts receive more dollars per student than Lakeshore! LEF efforts help minimize this potential student education gap.
How is my money used?
The LEF supports both grants and projects. Grants are awarded to students, Lakeshore Public Schools staff, and community members based on their proposals that will enhance, enrich or supplement the learning environment at the schools. Projects include funding in the areas of academics, the arts, technology and community engagement. For further information, see the current listing of grant awards and examples of projects on our website.
Who decides how my money is used?
Most donors leave that decision to the LEF board. The board identifies worthwhile projects in collaboration with Lakeshore schools staff. Every grant has a board chair who invites board members, Lakeshore staff and community members to participate in the awarding process. If you wish, you may also designate your gift for projects, grants, or the LEF Endowment Fund.
How much is raised annually and how much is dispersed?
We have raised our annual goal to $350,000 and are so pleased that we have been able to reach that goal. Since 1997, over $2.5 million has been raised. About 90% is dispersed annually.
Are my contributions tax deductible?
The LEF is a non-profit organization, tax-exempt under Section 503 (c) of the Internal Revenue Code. All donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
What is LEF’s relationship to Lakeshore Public Schools?
We are an independent organization with an all-volunteer board that works collaboratively with the school district. The Superintendent is an ex-officio member of the LEF board. The Superintendent or designee serves on the projects and grants committees. The Superintendent is also allocated $10,000 annually that he may award to teachers at his discretion.
Does the LEF guide or direct school policy?
No. School policy is the role of Lakeshore school staff. Trained educators and elected board members are best qualified to set school policy. The LEF is strictly a fund development, community outreach partner to the schools.
What is the relationship between the LEF and other fundraising organizations connected to the school?
We strive to maximize funds by not duplicating the efforts of other organizations such as the band or athletic boosters.
Does the LEF offer scholarships?
We do not offer college scholarships. Instead, we make up to $10,000 available annually for student grants and another $10,000 for staff development grants that may be used for tuition and other development activities.
How do I contact LEF?
We do not maintain physical office spaces. However, there are many ways to contact us:
Online form:
You can fill out the online contact form located in the sidebar of each page of this website.
By mail:
Lakeshore Excellence Foundation
5771 Cleveland Avenue,
Stevensville, MI 49127
By email:
LEFReachHigher@gmail.com
Contact our board chair:
J.C. Anderson
PH: 269.921.2513
Email: anderjcna@gmail.com
The LEF meets monthly at the high school in the “Team Room,” typically the first Thursday of every month except July.