HWIS Playground Renovation Fund
Q: Why are we changing the playground?
The administration, teachers, and parents of younger children are concerned that the current playground configuration does not accommodate students in our preschool program. More evidently, the equipment, much-loved and well-used, is showing a lot of wear and tear.
Q: What is the anticipated size and scope of the playground renovation project?
The administration estimates that the project cost will be in the range of $50,000 to $75,000 which would include the price for purchasing and installing separate new play structures for preschool children ages 2 and up and children ages 5 and up.
Q: Will the playground be inaccessible to my children during the school year?
Once funds are raised and the school is prepared for work to begin, much of the labor and construction should take place during summer or school breaks. Mr. Heller will notify parents if there will be any disruption to playground access or to parking by the playground.
Q: Will the HWISPA Spring Garden Gala be the only source of funds?
No. While HWISPA is grateful that the school community has generously contributed to much needed improvements over the school's history, we anticipate that there will be multiple rounds of fundraising. The administration is also actively seeking grant money from private sources.
Q: Is there a project timeline? When will the kids be able to play on the new play structures?
The administration is still in the early planning stages of the project. Principal Heller will be meeting with vendors and contractors to consider designs and estimates. There should be a user review and feedback period following. As soon as there are changes to this timeline, HWISPA will update these FAQs.
Q: How do I contribute to the fund if I do not attend the HWISPA Spring Garden Gala?
There are multiple ways to contribute! Checks are preferred.
Write a check to HudsonWay Immersion School or to St. Vincent de Paul Church with the memo "HWIS Playground Fund" and drop the check off at the school's front office.Go to the HWISPA gala website [https://hwispaNJgala24. givesmart.com] and make a payment via credit card.
Please be aware that there are bank fees associated with donations made with credit cards, debit cards, direct withdrawal, or Paypal. Checks (to either HWIS or HWISPA) are the best way to ensure your contribution will be fully utilized in playground renovations.
Q: If I donate to the fund, will I receive a tax deduction?
That depends. HWIS is for-profit and as such, donations made to HWIS are not tax deductible. However, HWIS and their lessor, St. Vincent de Paul Church, have arranged a way for the HWIS community to make tax-deductible donations. Only check or credit card donations made directly to St. Vincent de Paul Church would qualify as charitable contributions. Upon receipt, St. Vincent de Paul Church will provide you with a tax donation letter, which may make your contribution 100% tax-deductible. We recommend consulting your tax advisor.
Q: How will I know if my donation has been received? Will I receive email confirmation? Is there a website?
If you send your check donation (payable to either HWIS or St. Vincent de Paul Church) to the school, HWISPA will send you an email confirming the amount you have donated. With your permission, HWISPA will add your name to the list of contributors on our website.
Q: I have suggestions, questions, and contacts for the playground project. Who do I talk to?
Please reach out to our NJ campus Principal, David Heller, with any thoughts or queries via email dheller@hwis.org.
Q: I have questions about the fund. Who can I ask?
Please email the HWISPA Fundraising Committee at hwispa-nj-fundraising@hwis.org and we will try to respond in 24-48 hours.