Funds and Fundraising
 
Funds Provided to Each School
Parent Engagement and Outreach Grants
  • Each school receives funds annually from the Ministry of Education via the TDSB ($1.25/full-time student; max. $1000) for School Council operations. This money is held in school budget line GL41500 and can be accessed through your school's administrators.
    • You can find the amount allocated to your School Council using the drop down menu (select school name) on the TDSB School Budget website.
  • Each school council receives from the Ministry of Education (Parent Involvement Policy) $500 annually to support parent outreach. This fund is also held in school budget line GL 41500 and can be accessed through your school's administrators.
  • School Councils determine spending of the above funds. Eligible usage includes parent outreach activities, newsletters, photocopies, refreshments for School Council meetings, Council event insurance. A list of suggested expenses and exclusions can be found here.

Grants
PRO Grant
  • The Parents Reaching Out (PRO) Grant is provided annually by the Ontario Ministry of Education.
  • Grant applications are due in the spring of each year (usually the end of May).
  • PRO Grants provide funding for initiatives that increase parent engagement in education in two formats:
    • ​Grants for Schools (up to $1000, available to School Councils)
    • Grants for Regional/Provincial Projects (up to $16000)
Other Grants
  • Grant applications by Schools or School Councils requires the approval of the Board.
  • A current list of grants can be obtained through your school's Principal or by contacting the TDSB Resource Development office at 416-397-3510.
  • The Resource Development office can also assist with grant preparation, partnership opportunities, or other grant information. 

Fundraising
Overview
  • Fundraising, as defined by the TDSB, is a principal approved, local school activity, and a collaborative effort among school councils/parents, students, staff, and the school community.
  • Fundraising is an optional activity that many School Councils engage in.
  • All fundraising in the school’s name requires the approval of the TDSB (via your school's Principal).
  • Parents must follow the TDSB's Policies and Procedures for fundraising, advertising, and spending. Parents may refer to the TDSB's Fundraising Guide (2017/18) or the Ministry's Fundraising Guide for more comprehensive guidance.
  • For help negotiating fundraising ideas and initiatives contact the TDSB Fundraising Hotline at 416-397-3510.
Eligible and non-eligible fundraising targets
  • The principal working with the school council will decide how fundraising proceeds are spent.
  • Parents may fundraise for extracurricular programs, events, or supplies that enhance the educational experience. Parents may not fundraise for supplies or curriculum materials that are provided by the Ministry of Education. A list of eligible and non-eligible expenses is included in the TDSB Guide for School Generated Funds and the Fundraising Guide.
TDSB approved Vendor List
  • All suppliers and vendors for School council events and purchases must be approved by the TDSB. A current list of TDSB approved vendors can be found here. To seek approval of a new vendor contact the TDSB Fundraising Hotline at 416-397-3510.
TDBS Insurance for School Council Activities
  • It is recommended that School Councils purchase insurance for its activities. The TDSB provides a group insurance option. More information can be found here or by contacting your school administrators.

Sponsorships
  • Sponsorships often involve pre-determined benefits for the sponsor and must adhere to the Advertising Policy and Procedures. For more information or approval of a sponsorship contact the Fundraising Hotline at 416-397-3510.

Financial Accountability
  • All fund-raising activities conducted by the school council must be approved by the school's Principal and reported to the TDSB in the School Fundraising Plan, and in semi-annual and annual financial reports prepared by the school council. A School Council Financial Plan, Semi Annual Report Template, and PSAB template (year end report) are available from the TDSB to assist school councils in reporting their finances. 
  • To obtain a current copy of the PROCEDURES FOR SCHOOL COUNCIL FUNDS or assistance in interpreting or implementing TDSB Fund procedures, contact your school business advisor:
     North West - Paula McLaughlin   416-395-8042   Paula.mclaughlin@tdsb.on.ca
     South West - Walter Novachefski   416-395-8044   Walter.novachefski@tdsb.on.ca
     North East - Anita Gaskin   416-395-8043   Anita.gaskin@tdsb.on.ca
     South East  - Wendy Heis   416-395-8041   Wendy.heis@tdsb.on.ca