To the Editor:

I am writing in support of the article entitled “Potsdam schools need help from community” (April 17 – 23). I agree with this sentiment. Our schools have been repeatedly hit by budget cuts from the State of NY. In the past eight years we have lost over $8 million in aid from the state. PCS has lost wonderful teachers and programs and our children are suffering the consequences.

In Bollt’s letter, she urges the community to find ways to support our school. I know one way to help.

A new foundation, PEOF (Potsdam Educational Opportunities Fund), was created mid-2012 with the mission of providing educators at PCS with resources needed to develop activities and opportunities that enrich the educational experiences of the students. In the first year, PEOF was able to distribute over $5,700 to PCS. This is a start but obviously not enough to save our schools.

A generous couple, who are PCS alumni, has pledged to match all gifts given to PEOF up to $100,000. The couple will match the annual fund 1 to 1 and the endowment fund 2 to 1. This means that any dollar amount you donate will be matched or doubled (i.e. $100 could become $300). (The annual fund is spent yearly, while only the earned interest is spent from the endowment fund.)

PCS needs our help! Please consider donating to PEOF or, better yet, get involved with the foundation. PEOF is operates through The Northern NY Community Foundation. If you would like to donate you can mail a check to NNY Community Foundation, 120 Washington St, Watertown NY 13601 designating either the PEOF Annual Fund or the PEOF Endowment Fund as your donation. If you would like further information or would like to help with PEOF please go to our web page http://www.potsdam.k12.ny.us/educational-opportunties-fund.

Julie Helenbrook, Secretary of PEOF