Dear South Loop Families,
As we approach the final weeks of the school year, I want to extend my deepest gratitude for your unwavering support. Our school thrives because of the dedicated partnership between our staff and our families. Your commitment creates the vibrant, well-rounded environment our students deserve.
The Impact of Your Generosity
This year, your fundraising efforts have directly translated into incredible opportunities for our children. Because of your contributions, we were able to fund critical programs and enhancements that fall outside of the standard budget.
- The Arts: $10,000 for the 4th–8th Grade Art Program and $6,000 for our School Musical.
- Student Life: $3,500 for the Winter Dance, $2,500 for Beta Club, and $1,500 for clubs like Cheer, Yoga, Dance, and Chess.
- Academic Enrichment: $3,000 for books/instructional resources, $1,000 for the Coastal Science visit, and $700 for Lab supplies.
- School Environment: $3,800 for auditorium chairs, $800 for cell phone storage, and $2,500 for community events like Trunk or Treat.
- Teacher/Staff Development: $3,500 for teacher and administrative professional development.
Navigating Budget Uncertainties
While we celebrate these successes, we must also look ahead with a realistic lens. As you may be aware, the current CPS budget landscape remains uncertain. We are facing significant questions regarding future funding for critical programs and the instructional resources that make South Loop unique. Now more than ever, our local fundraising efforts are the safety net that ensures our “extras”—which are actually essentials for a holistic education—remain intact.
Our Final Push: Family Walk-A-Thon/Chicago Fire Match & Spring Benefit
To bridge the gap created by budget fluctuations, our final two fundraisers are more important than ever. We invite you to join us for the Walk-a-thon, Chicago Fire Match, and our Spring Benefit. These events are not just about raising money; they are about coming together as a community to invest in our children’s future.
Secure your tickets so your family — and your student — don’t miss out!
https://ffsles.dojiggy.io/90sbash
Urgent Need: Technology Upgrades
Finally, we have a critical infrastructure need. The Chromebooks provided by CPS in 2019-2020 have reached the end of life and we must replace 100 devices at a total cost of $40,000.
We are asking all families who have not yet paid their Annual Student Fee to do so by the end of May. These fees are the primary source of funding to replenish our technology.
- Annual Student Fee: $75 per student.
- Family Cap: A maximum of two students per family ($150 total).
Please submit your payment here: https://southloopschool.org/student-fee/
Thank you for your continued dedication to our students and for helping us finish this school year strong.
Sincerely,
Principal Shelton