Midwest school sends out hilariously honest letter telling parents they can get out of the bake sale if they just donate cash instead
A Michigan middle school’s unusually frank fundraiser form invited parents to donate money instead of taking part in a bake sale or other activities. The approach attracted attention after a parent shared it online, prompting debate over whether cash donations are a practical alternative or miss a chance for children to learn from fundraising.
The Saline Middle School form offered several donation amounts with wry explanations, including money parents would otherwise have spent on cupcakes or a child’s event T-shirt. One option asked for $100 in exchange for the school forgetting the donor’s name. The school later described its Fall Giving drive as a simple way to support teachers and students, with students able to win a cider and doughnuts party.
- Saline Middle School offered parents a cash option instead of a bake sale.
- Its form paired donation amounts with humorous explanations.
- The approach drew both praise and criticism online.
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A Michigan middle school sent parents a form offering cash donations instead of participating in traditional fundraising events like bake sales. The form set out various donation amounts with explanations of how the money would support the school. This direct approach differs from how schools typically raise funds.
Schools have traditionally relied on parents and children to organise and run fundraising activities such as bake sales and sponsored events. These activities require significant time and effort but have been an established part of school culture for many years. Saline Middle School's cash-donation option represents a notably different approach to school funding.
The form has prompted discussion about how schools should fundraise. Some argue that direct donations are more practical and efficient for schools and less demanding for parents. Others believe that traditional fundraising activities have value because they teach children about teamwork and community contribution.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Direct monetary donations offer practical efficiency and address the reality that not all families can participate equally in traditional fundraising activities. By cutting out intermediary steps and being transparent about the value exchange, the school maximises resources for students and teachers whilst accommodating different family circumstances. Students still participate in the reward, and honest communication may actually increase engagement from parents who appreciate the straightforward approach.
The case against
Bake sales and other active fundraising teach children essential lessons about effort, cooperation, and the link between work and resources that cannot be replicated by passive donations. These activities build community ties, develop practical and social skills, and contribute to a school culture where families actively invest in their children's education. Replacing participation with a simple cash transaction, however efficiently, surrenders valuable opportunities for character development and meaningful engagement that strengthens schools.