Annual Dolphin Dreams Fundraiser
Lawton Elementary School - 2023-2024
The Dolphin Dreams Direct Drive is Lawton's largest fundraising event of the year. Funds raised in this event are used to support critical programs and essential needs, including arts and science programs, technology licenses, as well as funding for our librarian and recess & lunch monitors. For a more detailed breakdown of how these funds are used, see Where Does the Money Go below.
With our current student enrollment, the current ask is a $450 donation per child. We know that this is a big ask and understand that this amount may be a financial burden to some families. If you are unable to donate the full amount you can specify a custom amount you are comfortable with. For those of you able to donate more than the suggested amount, know that your additional contributions will help us reach our overall financial target!
Our goal is to reach 100% participation this year! Participation does not require a donation – if you can’t give at this time, you can still show your support by clicking the “Participate Now” button.
Lawton PTA is a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization, so 100% of your donation is tax deductible.
Every class that reaches 100% participation will earn an extra recess! The first two classes to reach 100% participation will also receive a popsicle party. By participating even without a financial contribution, you demonstrate your active involvement in the Lawton community and commitment to this program’s success.
As in previous years, there will be an option to donate separately to Bailey Gatzert Elementary, our SPS partner school located in the Central District. This is an opportunity to help support the needs of children in our broader community. As a Title 1 school, Bailey Gatzert receives federal assistance as their school has a high number of children enrolled who are living in low income housing. 100% of any donation you choose to make goes directly to the Bailey Gatzert students.
Your donations support programs throughout the year and help Lawton meet critical needs not covered by district funding.
Below is just a subset of the many ways your donations are used to support Lawton.
Did you know that district funding does not fully pay for:
Without funds from the Direct Drive, Lawton would be without these essential resources.
We are so fortunate to have a school staff who truly care about our kids. Each year in May we show them our gratitude for going above and beyond for their students! The PTA budget is used to fund flowers for the staff, a catered lunch, and a coffee cart.
Each year, teachers receive a stipend to purchase essential supplies to meet the basic needs of their classrooms. Specialty teachers (e.g. librarian, music teacher, physical education) receive additional funds as their programs benefit the entire student population. Last year Ms. Gallegos (librarian) was able to buy new signage to make it easier for the kids find what they are looking for themselves. Ms Kinder (music) has her eye on some Ukuleles for this year, and Mr. Peters (physical education) always uses his stipend to find the coolest things that the kids love to keep them excited and engaged!
Brain Pop, Learning A - Z & IXL are invaluable resources that the teachers use in the classroom. These are paid for completely by the PTA.
Field Day, Move-A-Thon, Art Docent, STEAM week, Kindergarten meet-ups, Fall Festival, Back to School Bash, Bingo night, Movie nights – all brought to you by the PTA! These events are so much fun for the kids and help maintain our strong Lawton community.
Do you see your employer on the list below?
The companies listed here will match your Direct Drive donation. Please consider making a contribution match request to them to make your donation go even further!
Please support the teachers, staff, and students of Lawton Elementary by clicking on the "Participate Now!" button above by November 29th.
If you have any questions please reach out to the fundraising team (Ania Tchistiakova & Vanessa Harding) at: fundraising@lawtonelementary.org