FAQs

The Hawthorne Foundation organizes and oversees most of the fundraising events benefitting Hawthorne throughout the year. Money raised goes to school needs projects to enrich student learning and improve school facilities (examples: inclusive playground, painting, etc.). 

The Foundation organizes and runs fundraising events and the PTA oversees the use of those funds. For example, the Foundation organizes the Hornet Hustle each year and the PTA organizes the Scholastic Book Fair and Teacher Appreciation events, both of which use funds raised by the Foundation. The PTA and Foundation work closely together to ensure the needs of the school, staff, and students are being met and that everyone is getting the best school experience possible.

The Foundation raises money that can support Hawthorne in similar ways as the PTA, but allows for long term and large scale projects that require building up funds over time, which is something that PTA budget regulations do not permit. The Foundation is comprised of a Board of members who meet monthly, all of whom volunteer to contribute their energy and time to raising money for the school.  The Foundation's two big fundraising events are the Hornet Hustle in the fall, and the Bids 4 Kids Auction in the spring.

The PTA facilitates communication between school staff and families.  Its funds support school staff and provide fun activities that build community at Hawthorne.  The PTA is open to all parents (there is also a PTA board of named members who drive the majority of the effort and meet monthly) and General meetings are held 3 times per year, open to all parents.  PTA events include Back to School Family Night, Flick on the Field, Book Fairs, Talent Show, and Spring Festival.

The Foundation discusses often the best ways to use the funds raised. There are projects that enhance the school and/or the learning experience such as a new playground or piece of learning equipment. There are also events throughout the year that provide support to teachers.

Donations to the Foundation are used a variety of ways, including funding:

• Continuing education training for HES staff members

• Professional development instructional fees, books, and materials

• Teacher requested projects and equipment

• Materials and supplies for General Education, Special Education, ESOL, and Discovery

• Academic enrichment

• School facility improvements

• Other priorities brought to us by the principal and/or our teacher representatives

Contributions from Hawthorne Elementary families, staff, and community members are important sources of funds raised by the Foundation. We invite everyone in our school community to get involved and make a gift. Donations directly benefit Hawthorne, building an even stronger foundation for students at our school for years to come. Gifts of all sizes add up to make a meaningful impact!

The Foundation also seeks contributions from corporations, local businesses, grant makers, and matching gifts from employers. Donations made to the HES Foundation are tax deductible to the extent provided by law.

There are many ways to join the efforts of the Foundation. The Foundation seeks to engage the whole school community in an inclusive and welcoming way. When we all work together it adds up to make an important impact for our school.

Offering your ideas and perspectives, participating as a volunteer, or making a financial contribution are some of the ways to become involved with the work of the Foundation.

• Financially:

  • • Donate online - Click here

    • Donate by mailing a check made payable to Hawthorne ES Foundation to 2535 Caladium Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30345

    • Ask your employer about matching your donations

• Personally:

  • • Share your time and talents as a volunteer (any and all diverse experiences and backgrounds)

    • Share your ideas and feedback with the Foundation, including any grants you may have heard of that may support any of our objectives

The Foundation had funded a much-needed new and safe playground for Hawthorne.