Group seeks help for schools' needs

AIKEN --- Public Education Partners hope an SOS call to the community will help Aiken County schools with budget problems.

The nonprofit has begun two drives -- Supply Our Schools and Citizens Paying Responsibly -- to bring school supplies and money to the ailing district.

The district faces a $12 million deficit for the 2009-10 year, in addition to the $9.5 million already cut in state funding this year.

School supply budgets were cut in half this year to accommodate some of those cuts. As the end of the year approaches, paper, ink cartridges and even toiletry supplies are running low.

With the district facing another mid-year cut, PEP began the Supply Our Schools program so classes wouldn't be impeded by lack of supplies.

"We received phone calls and e-mails from concerned people in the community saying 'What can we do?' " said Diane Mangiante, PEP's executive director. "As money comes in, we'll go down the list of critical needs."

A case of paper is headed to each school in the first supply drop. Kimberly-Clark also donated 220 cases of paper towels, 510 cases of facial tissue and 540 cases of toilet tissue.

"That gift really allows us to do more for instruction because those (supplies) were some needs that were essential, but we're focusing on instruction," Mrs. Mangiante said.

The Citizens Paying Responsibly fundraiser will bring money to the district while raising awareness about the lack of tax base in Aiken County.

In 2006, the state Legislature passed an act that shifted the tax burden from homeowners to sales taxes, which limited school districts' ability to increase millages and raise revenue.

PEP is asking property owners to donate the savings from the tax reduction back to the school district.

Aiken County Superintendent Beth Everitt said she's ready to write a check for the program.

"It's such a great way to raise funds, but also raise awareness about finances and why we're in this situation," she said.

"(School) newsletters often ask for certain things, but supporting education is a community effort," she said.

PEP hopes to have 100 pledges to present to the school board at the April 21 meeting, Mrs. Mangiante said.

"I think the plight of our schools has become very evident to not just parents, but the community at large," she said. "If someone's looking for a silver lining, it's increased awareness and support for public education."

Reach Julia Sellers at (706) 823-3424 or julia.sellers@augustachronicle.com