The Governing Board may accept any bequest or gift of money or property on behalf of the district. While greatly appreciating suitable donations, the Board discourages any gifts which may directly or indirectly impair its commitment to providing equal educational opportunities for all district students.
Any and all gifts, including donations, grants, and bequests received on behalf of the district, and/or its schools, including gifts to Associated Student Body accounts must receive formal acceptance from the Board.
(cf. 0410 - Nondiscrimination in District Programs and Activities)
Before accepting a gift, the Board shall consider whether the gift:
1. Has a purpose consistent with the district's vision and philosophy
2. Begins a program which the Board would be unable to continue when the donated funds are exhausted
3. Places restrictions on the school program
4. Entails undesirable or excessive costs
5. Implies endorsement of any business or product
(cf. 1325 - Advertising and Promotion)
The Board shall carefully evaluate any conditions or restrictions imposed by the donor in light of district philosophy and operations. If the Board feels the district will be unable to fully satisfy the donor's conditions, the gift shall not be accepted.
Gifts of equipment shall be noted as to value, as determined by the donor, condition (new, used, good, fair), and shall include model and serial numbers.
Gift books and instructional materials shall be accepted only if they meet regular district criteria.
(cf. 6161.1 - Selection and Evaluation of Instructional Materials)
All gifts, grants and bequests shall become district property. Donors are encouraged to donate all gifts to the district rather than to a particular school. At the Superintendent or designee's discretion, a gift may be used at a particular school.
After Board acceptance, proper acknowledgment of the gift will be made to the donor by the Deputy Superintendent. Individual letters of thanks from school district administrators are encouraged.
Legal Reference:
EDUCATION CODE
1834 Acquisition of materials and apparatus
35162 Power to sue, be sued, hold and convey property
41030 School district may invest surplus monies from bequest or gifts
41031 Special fund or account in county treasury
41032 Authority of school board to accept gift or bequest; investments; gift of land requirements
41035 Advisory committee
41036 Function of advisory committee
41037 Rules and regulations
Policy NEWPORT-MESA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
adopted: September 8, 2009 Costa Mesa, California