Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the purpose of the HTEF?

The Foundation's purpose is to attract, secure and distribute private gifts of cash, services, and property to help support the mission of the Foundation.

2. What types of activities/programs does the Foundation fund?

The Foundation will target innovative programs designed to enhance and enrich the curriculum of our public school students. The Foundation welcomes input from students, staff, administrators, Board of Education members, and community members.

3. Will these gifts/funded projects reduce the taxpayer’s obligation to the schools?

Not at all. The Foundation's mission is to supplement, augment, and complement the basic school program by providing new educational opportunities that would not otherwise be available to students.

4. Who decides which projects and programs the Foundation will support?

The Foundation's Trustees will decide which projects/programs to fund. However, donors to the Foundation may direct their contributions to specific areas. The Board of Education will make the final legal decision regarding whether to accept or reject any gift from the Foundation.

5. How does the Foundation raise funds?

Funds are received from individuals, corporations, businesses, and other Foundations.

6. Are there any assurances that the Foundation will use its funds as intended and will not lose funds through risky investments?

Yes. The Foundation is non-profit corporation chartered by the State of New Jersey and subject to guidelines covering fund raising activities. The Foundation, under 501 (c) (3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code is subject to further reporting requirements and rules covering annual distributions, jeopardy investments, conflicts of interest, and restricted funds. The Foundation is guided by its by-laws, which are subject to the provisions of the New Jersey Non-Profit Corporation Act and the Certification of Incorporation.

7. Are all donations tax deductible?

Contributions are tax deductible and subject to provision 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

8. Will teachers have a say in how funds are spent?

Yes. A "peer review" group, composed primarily of teachers, assists the Foundation by reviewing grant opportunities and making recommendations to the Foundation’s Board of Trustees.

9. Will other school related groups be involved with the Foundation?

Yes. The Foundation is NOT intended to replace parent/teacher groups. In some cases, collaborative projects can be developed with the Foundation.

10. What will it cost to administer the Foundation?

Very little. The Foundation does not have a paid staff and therefore, very little overhead costs.

11. Why do we need a Foundation?

Foundations supporting public education are growing phenomena throughout the country. In New Jersey, school budgets are being cut so drastically, thereby eliminating the types of innovative programming that encourages student excellence and prepares students adequately for life as an adult.

12. Why can’t we simply give to the schools without bothering with an Educational Foundation?

You can certainly make donations directly to a school of your choice. However, the Educational Foundation provides the most protected vehicle for making donations. Its exempt status allows the maximum amount of individual tax deduction. Many businesses and other corporations/organizations will not give to public schools, but are not restricted from giving to other foundations. In addition, the Educational Foundation provides a "focus for support" by clearly stating the needs to be addressed.