Fast Facts about the Lake Travis Education Foundation
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
What is LTEF? The Lake Travis Education Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, incorporated in 1985. We are the largest contributor of non-tax-generated funding to our district's schools.
How is the Foundation managed?
A volunteer Board of Directors represents a broad spectrum of the community. A maximum of 33 directors serve at any one time, rotating on and off in 3-year terms.
Why do we need a Foundation?
Contributions through the Foundation help offset the shortages caused by explosive growth and the state-mandated "Robin Hood" Plan, to which the Lake Travis ISD loses millions in tax dollars annually. If the school district wants to purchase a program or item for the schools, they must raise twice as much as it costs, because roughly half of the money that comes in directly to the Lake Travis ISD must be given away through the Robin Hood Plan. However, 100% of all money that comes in through the Foundation is not subject to Robin Hood recapture and stays right here in our district to support our schools.
What does LTEF support?
The Foundation supports educational projects and programs in the Lake Travis ISD through the LTEF Grant program, which funds proposals submitted each year by district educators. LTEF also awards Scholarships to exemplary Lake Travis High School seniors.
How much does the Foundation give away?
To date, the LTEF has provided more than $1.5 million in support to our schools and students. In spring 2007, LTEF award $288,433 in grants to our district's educators, and $40,785 in scholarship funds to graduating LTHS seniors.
Why should I donate to LTEF? I already participate in my school's PTA/PTO/Booster Club.
It's important to do both. The PTA's, PTO's, and Booster Clubs play a critical role in raising money for immediate, campus-specific needs and providing parent volunteers to help teachers and administrators be more effective. The Lake Travis Education Foundation, on the other hand, raises money for the "bigger picture" enhancements across the district, including programs that enrich and expand the learning environment for our students beyond the established curriculum.
How much must I give to be a Friend of the Foundation?
Please consider how much an exemplary education for your child is worth to you. For an average of only $1/week, you can be on the Friends' Honor Roll. $5/week puts you on the Dean's List, and it just keeps going. Any donation, from $1 to $10,000 (and beyond!), is welcomed and appreciated. When combined with donations from across the district, school parents can make a HUGE impact on our schools through the Friends of the Foundation Annual Giving Campaign. All donations are tax deductible; tax statements will be mailed, and donors will be acknowledged on LTEF's website and in our annual report.
Friends of the Foundation Annual Giving Levels
Valedictorian Society $10,000+
Salutatorian Society $5,000+
Honor Society $2,500+
Scholars $1,000+
Graduates cum Laude $500+
Dean's List $250+
Honor Roll $1+
Note "Friends of the Foundation" on your check, make it payable to LTEF, and mail to the P.O. Box shown below. Or charge online at LakeTravisEducationFoundation.org.
Does LTEF hold any fundraising events?
Yes! LTEF's annual "Fore" the Kids Golf Tournament is held in September, and the Crystal Ball gala, featuring dining, dancing, live & silent auctions, and entertainment by Rotel and the Hot Tomatoes, takes place Saturday, March 1, 2008 at the Renaissance Austin Hotel. Details are available through our website and the link below.
