September 14, 2007

Dear Parents,

We all recognize that the Magnet programs at Van Nuys High School offer some of the strongest academic programs available in Los Angeles.  We have one of the largest selections of AP classes offered at any high school in the state as well as an outstanding pass rate for the AP exams.  Recent graduates were admitted to Yale University, Stanford University, Columbia University, the California Institute of Technology, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Amherst College, Pomona College, Wellesley College, Georgetown University, the United States Air Force Academy, the University of California campuses, as well as many other prestigious schools.  The value of the education our children are receiving is comparable to that of many of the best private schools in Los Angeles.

As good as our Magnet programs are, existing funding is inadequate to maintain our high standards and to expand into the future.  We, as parents, must step in and fill the void between what the district can provide and what is needed to sustain the highest quality programs for our children.  The Magnet Parents Association serves as an advocate for the Magnet programs and funds from parents go directly towards supporting particular needs that arise within the Magnet programs.  Some recent examples of donations to the Magnet programs by the Magnet Parents Association are: equipment for science classes, video equipment for the video program, portable dance bars for the dance program and expansion of the College Office.  In addition, your support enables the Magnet Parents Association to foster communication between the Magnet Office and your home.  Due to budget shortages, there are no district funds to pay for first class mailings.  The Magnet Parents Association subsidizes every issue of the Magnet Newsletter that is sent to you. This newsletter is a vital link between the school and home.  Mailings, such as this one, are paid for entirely by Magnet Parents Association funds. We have over 1,300 Magnet students; the cost of communicating by mail is significant. 

We, as your representatives of the Magnet Parents Association, are requesting your direct financial support.  While every family is a member of the Magnet Parents Association and giving is voluntary, we are asking that, if possible, every family contribute generously toward the support of the Association and the Magnet programs.   We would like to see 100% participation, as this is the primary fundraiser conducted by the Magnet Parents Association.  This is your opportunity to actively support your child’s school. 

Please make your tax-deductible donation today and return it in the enclosed envelope to the VNHS Magnet Parents Association, P.O. Box 3653, Winnetka, CA 91396-3653.  Checks can be made payable to: VNHS Magnet Parents Association.  No donation is too small or too large!

Sincerely,

VNHS Magnet Parents Association Board Members

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Please make your tax-deductible donation today to: VNHS MPA and return it with this form to
VNHS MPA, P.O. Box 3653, Winnetka, CA 91396-3653
I’m happy to support the Magnet programs!  Here is my check for:

             $25                            $50                                 $100                         Other

Your name (s) ____________________   Your child’s name and grade __________________________                                      

We will acknowledge all donors in the Magnet Parents Association Newsletter unless you request otherwise.

           Please withhold my name.

          Please send me a receipt for my records.  Your address __________________________________