Q: Why does the Roland Park Foundation fundraise?
A: Roland Park K-8, located in the Westshore district, is a Hillsborough County elementary and middle Magnet school with an International Baccalaureate (IB) program designation. Roland Park has transformed from a Title I school to a best-in-class IB institution. Roland Park is a culturally diverse school, with a greater than 60% minority rate and more than 35% of the students economically disadvantaged.
Florida ranks 41st in the country for per student public school funding, spending only $7,300 per student vs. the national average of $11,500. That’s $4,000 (or 36%) BELOW the national average. This tremendously affects the resources the schools and teachers have to elevate our citizens of the future.
Q: What’s the difference between Roland Park’s PTSA and the Foundation?
A: Both entities are critically important to Roland Park, but the PTSA is ultimately an advocating body, whereas the RP Foundation manages fundraising for large-scale, long-term school projects.
Q: How can I get involved in the Foundation?
A: For more information on how you can get involved with the Roland Park Foundation, please contact parent volunteer Julie Garfield, at 813-731-6666 or juliebrennergarfield@gmail.com.
Q: Who is on the Foundation Board?
A: Current Roland Park Foundation Board Members include:
- Kathy Massing (President)
- Fikir Sanders (Secretary)
- Meredith Densen (Treasurer)
- Julie Garfield (Fundraising)
- Adrian Madhosingh
- Lily Lorenzo
- Principal Scott Weaver
Roland Park Foundation Advisory Board members include:
- Beverly Addison
- Katie Perkey
- Jin Liu
- Suzanne Clemons