Working with schools: Approvals, timing, and rules

Fundraising with schools can be incredibly rewarding — and sometimes a bit complex.

Whether you're a coach, teacher, club leader, or parent trying to run a fundraiser through a school, ensure you understand the process and are prepared.

This guide provides general tips, but remember that every school and district has its own rules. Before starting, check with your principal, activities director, or school administration.

1. Always get approval first.

Even if your fundraiser is digital and easy to run, you should still clear it with school leadership.

Questions to ask your school:

• Are there any rules about outside fundraising platforms?

• Does the fundraiser need approval by a school board or district office?

• Can we mention the school name/logo in our materials?

• Are there restrictions around what days or times fundraisers can run?

Pro Tip: Having a clear flyer or short explanation of Jamboree and how it works can help your case. (We can help with this!)

2. Know what you're raising money for — and be specific.

Schools are more likely to approve fundraisers that are tied to:

• Specific programs (like travel, camps, gear, competitions)

• Direct student benefit

• Aligned educational or extracurricular goals

Example: "We’re fundraising for travel to a state science competition and using a platform that supports local environmental efforts."

Be ready to explain where the money goes and the school’s role (if any).

3. Understand where the money goes.

With Jamboree, funds go directly to the fundraiser organizer, not through the school.
That’s why clarity is key.

Important: Some schools require all funds to be processed through a school account or booster program. If that’s the case, make sure you:

• Identify who will receive and manage the funds

• Work within their guidelines

• Get written approval for how funds will be used

4. Choose the right timing

Avoid overlapping with school-wide fundraising campaigns (like cookie dough sales or fun runs) or other significant asks.

Tips for better timing:

• Start early in the semester when families are more engaged

• Check the school calendar for major events, breaks, and testing periods

• Coordinate with other groups (band, sports, clubs) to avoid conflict

Even better: Position your fundraiser as “low lift, high impact” — no selling or deliveries required!

5. Be transparent and respectful.

Keep administrators informed of:

• When the fundraiser will run

• How families and students will participate

• What kinds of messages (emails, texts, flyers) you plan to use

Offer to send a short post-fundraiser report or thank-you summary — it shows responsibility and builds goodwill.

Always check with your school first.

Every school is different, and it’s always best to check in early.

We’re here to support you with templates, explanations, and digital tools to make school-based fundraising easier and more impactful.

Reminder: This guide is not legal advice and doesn’t replace your school or district’s policies. Always confirm your plans with local leadership.