Brunswick County Schools amends policy on classroom fundraising

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — Brunswick County Schools has amended its solicitation policy, adding new requirements for teachers who use online crowdfunding platforms to seek donations for classroom supplies.

Under the amended policy, teachers must receive administrative approval before using crowdfunding sites such as GoFundMe.

Teachers are required to submit requests to school administrators, who will review what supplies are already available through the district, including items such as hand sanitizer, tissues and disinfectant. Administrators will also make sure donated items comply with district safety requirements and other policies.

During the Brunswick County Board of Education’s August 6 meeting, Vice Chairwoman Vickie Smith said the change does not prohibit employees from seeking donations.

“This policy does not prevent staff from soliciting funds. It simply requires them to get permission from their principal in order to do so,” said Smith.

District officials say the amended policy is intended to provide additional oversight of donated classroom materials and prevent items that do not meet district standards from being brought into schools.

Examples include carpets that may not comply with fire codes and reading materials that do not meet district policy.