As familiar as backpacks filled with back-to-school supplies, the annual Kids First coupon book sale begins on Sept. 7 – its 20th year of raising funds for Hamilton County schools.
For two weeks, Hamilton County elementary school students scramble to sell the 200-page books which cost $10 and feature discounts from area stores, restaurants, attractions and service providers.
“The price of a postage stamp and a gallon of milk have nearly doubled in 20 years, but the coupon books are still an amazing $10 value – a value measured out to coupon users, but a value of direct significance to students and their schools,” said Kris Humber, executive director for the Hamilton County Schools Fund for Excellence.
Officials stated that Kids First has raised millions of dollars for the Hamilton County Schools. The schools keep $7 for every book sold, and the money is allocated according to their individual needs. The remaining 30% of coupon book revenue covers program expenses and funds other schools programs such as quarterly Teaching Excellence Awards and the annual Superintendent’s Honors Banquet.
Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences has had the highest ratio of books sold per student for five years straight – averaging nearly ten books per student last year. “The Coupon Books continue to provide our school with the resources we need to provide quality education for our students,” said Steve Ball, CSAS principal. “Our school’s computer technology has been enhanced, and our playground is in the process of being upgraded with new equipment.”
“This is a fundraiser we can’t do without,” said Dawn Noles, parent volunteer at McConnell Elementary School. “Last year, we were able to pay for an extra computer lab for the children, as well as purchase things our teachers need in the classroom.”
The Kids First campaign has been a sell-out for two straight years, and organizers anticipate selling 100,000 coupon books this year. For more information, call 209-5450 or visit www.fundforexcellence.org.