What is the purpose of the Waialae School Foundation?
The primary purpose of the Foundation is to raise money to support and advance long-term educational innovation and programs at Wai‘alae School. Our goals are future-focused, but we also support present projects that meet the School’s objectives for tomorrow. In other words, we do not try to find ways to spend money each year, but rather strategically spend and save to make sure funding is available in future years when it is needed (similar to a rainy-day fund). Another purpose of creating this savings reserve is to follow intentional guidelines and a functional process for spending, so expenses can be budgeted for and planned well in advance, ensuring the School’s lasting financial health.
Is the investment fund intended to be perpetual in duration?
Yes. The investment funds are intended to support Waialae School as long as it remains open.
Who will have responsibility for investment decisions?
The entire WSF board will have responsibility for investment decisions. At a future time an investment subcommittee may be formed.
What is the overall investment strategy of the fund?
The fund is intended to be a counter-cyclical, “rainy day” type of fund. Preservation of principal and low volatility are priorities. The Waialae School is reliant on the State of Hawaii Department of Education for funding. The likelihood of the school needing support from WSF increases during economic downturns.
What degree of risk is the board prepared to take in pursuit of investment goals?
The board would like to maintain a low risk investment portfolio.
Are any of the investment pool funds donor restricted?
There are currently no donor restricted funds.
What is the difference between the Waialae School Governing Board, the Friends of Waialae School, and the Waialae School Foundation?
The Waialae Elementary Public Charter School has 3 separate organizations that work together to
support the school:
The Governing Board is defined in Chapter 302D, Hawaii Revised Statutes, as “the independent board of a public charter school that is party to the charter contract with the authorizer that is responsible for the financial, organizational, and academic viability of the charter school and implementation of the charter.”
The Friends of Waialae School is a parent-driven organization that plans and executes events that maintain community engagement.
The WSF manages the Annual Fund drive and invests the accumulated funds to provide long term support for the school.
Who are the volunteers involved with the Waialae School Foundation?
The current Waialae School Foundation consists of 5 volunteer members from diverse backgrounds and professions. Each of the current Board members brings valuable experience with the common focus of organizing the Foundation and setting it on a course of stability for future years. For more information visit our Board Members page.