Leading Edge Technology Campaign

FAQ’s

• Why technology?

It is our mission to provide a world class education that prepares our students to be successful in the 21^st century world.  In order to do so, we believe we must provide a technology-rich environment that expands access to innovative digital technologies and learning opportunities while empowering teachers with the skills necessary to utilize technology to deliver curriculum content.
Technology is a part of almost every occupation and higher education environment today.  It is a language our students must learn.  We need to equip them with the technological acumen necessary to succeed in today’s world.  In order to do so, our school and classrooms need to be as engaging, responsive and dynamic as the world around us.

• What specifically is included in the LET campaign?

The current state of technology at North Star is at best slim and it should be robust.  This campaign is aimed at resourcing the classroom with the right technology so that teachers and students have the tools they need to provide a 21^st century, world class education.
The Elementary school will receive laptops for the computer and enrichment classes, iPads for the younger students and transporting/storing/charging carts so that the computation devices are available to all classes.  Combined with the current Chromebooks this will provide the Elementary school with a diverse selection of computation devices and will allow each class the opportunity to integrate technology into the classroom.
The Secondary school will receive laptops, robotics kits for the computer science classes and a transporting/storing/charging cart.  Combined with the current Chromebooks and computer lab, this will provide the Secondary school with a diverse selection of computation devices and cutting edge technology in the field of Computer Science.
In addition to the actual technology, teachers will receive professional development focused on empowering them with the skills necessary to move beyond simply utilizing technology to deliver curriculum content toward the integration of technology at a transformational level.

• Shouldn’t this be covered in the school’s budget?

This year, NS’s budget will contribute $83,151 towards our current technology needs.  This includes hardware, software, broadband and general IT support.  It does not include the new technology that is proposed in the Leading Edge Technology campaign.
Charter schools do not receive the same funding as other public schools.  We do not receive any funding from local revenue sources collected by school districts.  Because of this, there is a significant gap in per pupil funding.

• Our family would like to give, but we can’t afford to give much.  Does a small donation still have an impact?

YES!  Every gift counts and adds up.  Participation is measured and matters to us.  It is a great encouragement to our teachers and to leadership donors when they see an entire community contributing to the cause.  Additionally, outside funders love to support organizations that support themselves and are much more likely to give to organizations whose beneficiaries give first.

• Why such a short timeframe to fund it?

We know that at any given time there are many demands on every family and we don’t want to drag out our appeal for your support with this project.  It is our hope that the timeframe of Nov-Dec 31 will give families enough time to consider their contribution to the campaign.
For many, giving at this time of year makes sense for tax reasons.
We would like to implement the new technology as soon as possible!

• When would the technology be implemented?

If funded, it could implemented be as early as February 2016 and no later than September 2016.

• Technology becomes obsolete so quickly, what is the long term plan to keep our technology up to date?

We have started a deferred maintenance fund to address the ongoing upgrades inherent in technology.  Similar to a savings account that is designated for technology, this fund will be set aside to support technology upgrades when necessary.

• I’ve heard that Idaho has some unique tax benefits for giving to education.  Are these still in effect?

YES!  The Idaho Education Tax Credit is still in effect for 2015.
Idaho has a unique tax credit opportunity specifically for contributions to schools.  Gifts to North Star Charter may qualify for a 50% tax credit (a reduction in the actual tax you owe).  This is an incredible benefit that we hope you will consider when determining your charitable contributions for this year.
If you itemize your taxes, a donation to North Star allows income tax deductions on both your state and federal returns, plus a 50% Idaho income tax credit.

• Idaho individuals may take up to 50% of a gift of $1,000 (a tax credit of $500)
• Idaho married couples may take up to 50% of a gift of $2,000 (a tax credit of $1,000)
• Idaho corporations may take up to 50% of a gift of $10,000 (a tax credit of $5,000)

Your tax benefit is dependent on your personal income level and filing status. Please contact your tax consultant for additional information.
Additional Resources
Idaho Statute Title 63 Revenue and Taxation Chapter 30 Income Tax