Frequently Asked Questions

What are the various programs included in the Foundation?

Some of the more recognizable programs under the Foundation are Dollars for Scholars, Valley After Prom Event, Friends of Valley Debate, and the Dottie Kimm Educational Assistance Fund. Also under the Foundation’s umbrella are nearly 30 scholarship and instructional enhancement funds with aggregate endowment balances in excess of $300,000. Typically, the funds are established either by an individual donor such as Dottie Kimm, who had been an elementary teacher in our district, fund or by supporters of a particular memorial or activity. The donations must be spent according to the fund’s purpose or held by the Foundation as an endowment. In cases of an endowment, annual earnings of the fund must be spent for the fund’s purpose.

How is Removing the Barriers different from those other programs that fund scholarships and instructional enhancements?

While the Foundation acts as an umbrella for numerous programs, Removing the Barriers is an initiative of the Foundation’s Board of Directors. It was developed as a result of recognizing that there are students in our district who cannot participate in extracurricular educational experiences and activities without financial assistance. Funds raised under Removing the Barriers are specifically designated to assist in the funding of five student programs.

What are the fundraising goals for Removing the Barriers?

The initial campaign in 2002 raised approximately $165,000which included both current donations and pledges to be paid over time. As a result of the success of the district programs funded and the number of students served by the Foundation’s assistance, the Foundation’s Board has established an annual fundraising minimum of $40,000 to continue funding at the current level.

Is Removing the Barriers operated as an endowment?

Not now, although that is the long-term goal. Right now, an annual allocation of the funds raised through Removing the Barriers goes to the five student programs each year.

How does the Foundation ensure that the funds raised for Removing the Barriers are used for the programs and not for general operations of the Foundation?

No more than 5% of monies managed by the Foundation may go towards unrestricted funds or general operations of the Foundation according to Foundation policy. As a result, 95% or more of the funds raised for a specific purpose are restricted for such purposes.

Why is Removing the Barriers necessary in an economically privileged community like West Des Moines?

People are surprised at the high number of economically disadvantaged and at-risk students in our school system. For example, over 1,000 students – nearly 10% of our student population – qualify for free-and-reduced-price lunch, which is the federal government’s measure of poverty. That number has grown from 8% in 1996. While this compares favorably to 50% for Des Moines Public Schools, the growing proportion is cause for concern. Also, the number of students identified as “at risk” is at an all time high of 20%.

What impact has the Foundation’s financial support had on the five student programs?

It is estimated that more than 200 students are directly impacted by the Foundation’s financial support. The Foundation’s support ensured that these students – who otherwise could not have participated – were able to be included in extracurricular educational experiences and activities.

Does the Foundation assist donors with Planned Giving?

The Foundation is associated with the Greater Des Moines Community Foundation, which provides consultation to donors considering Planned Giving initiatives towards the West Des Moines Schools Foundation.

What is the relationship of the Valley High Alumni Association with the Foundation?

The Valley High Alumni Association’s chairperson is a member of the Foundation’s Board of Directors. The Foundation provides organizational and marketing support for the Alumni Association. In association with the Foundation’s Web site, an Alumni Association Web site and online registry have been developed. This Web site provides news and announcements and enables alumni to contact one another.