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I was upset by a newsletter sent home by my son’s school principal last week. The first thing I read was that our school was able to profit approximately $10,000.00 by selling cookie dough. My first thought was WOW, that’s a lot of cookie dough. My second thought was WOW, what message are we sending to our kids?
We are in a rural area with a small population, so our elementary school only has around 800 students K-8, to put into perspective the volume sold. I fully understand the need for fundraisers, but I question this method. With convenience foods everywhere and our nation facing a serious health crisis as a result, I have serious reservations about “cookie dough” as a method for school fundraising. What happened to fruit sales? Future Farmers of America continues to do citrus sales year after year – proof that healthy foods have a place in this market. Why not choose something that benefits the school and sends a good message that supports healthy living?
Maybe I’m being sensitive, but I feel that elementary school is a place where we should be leading by example and promoting healthy living in all areas. When our schools have contracts with soda companies, fast food restaurants and fundraise by selling an unhealthy lifestyle, I can’t stand by and say nothing.
Who benefits from this?
Does your school offer a wholesome solution? I would love to hear it, along with your thoughts on the subject!
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{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
I totally agree with you. As for what they could sell? I'll have to give it a little more thought…perhaps put on plays, talent shows, have a bake sale with whole foods like wheat bread, wheat/fruit muffins, grow veggies, herbs in a green house and sell fresh veggies in the winter when they can be hard to come by. I don't know…maybe some of these would be too difficult to manage with students, but if they put enough thought and effort into it it shouldn't be that bad honestly. Sometimes it is so easy to fall back on what you know rather then cut a path into new territory…but someone must take the first swing.
My son's school did wrapping paper and such for a long time, but they also do pie sales. I agree with you and do not participate in the pie sales. I don't buy pre-made, pre-packaged food anyway though. I make my own so that I know what my family is eating and, quite frankly, it tastes better
It would be nice if there were at least options other than the cookie dough, like fruit, etc.
I agree , but I would take it a step further. A basic education is a right in this country, and having children fundraise to pay for their education is ridiculous. After six hours a day in school, (much of that time wasted for various reasons) I think children should spend their at home time in the way their family sees fit, not working for the government.
My kids’ school does a book fair fundraiser. I like that!