Stanton, City Launch Effort to Boost Extracurricular School Activities through Tax-Credit Program

phoenix.gov

PHOENIX — From marching band and sports to theater and field trips, extracurricular activities play an important role in building character, encouraging curiosity, developing self-esteem and helping kids grow into responsible adults.

That’s the motivation behind a public-service campaign launched today (Wednesday, Nov. 12) by Mayor Greg Stanton and the City of Phoenix.

“Kids are Missing Out” seeks to raise awareness, as well as generate funds for public schools, through the Arizona school tax-credit program, which pays for a wide range of opportunities for students in kindergarten through 12th grade.

“These dollars fund important extracurricular activities that enrich a student’s academic experience, ultimately helping them graduate high school and continue learning,” Stanton said, noting that some schools receive fewer and smaller contributions and need help the most. “The funding disparity hurts all of us and our economy – that’s why it’s critical that we work to level the playing field and narrow this funding gap.”

The range in contributions is wide. For example, in 2013, Union Elementary School District generated $2.59 per student in tax-credit funds, compared with $116 per student in Scottsdale Unified.

Under state law, individuals and couples may contribute up to $200 and $400, respectively, and the entire contribution may be deducted from their annual taxes.

Extracurricular activities are integral to youth development, helping to build character while improving academic performance, according to a study by the National Center for Education Statistics.

“Kids are Missing Out” posters will be displayed at public libraries and recreation centers, as well as at sports venues, arts and cultural attractions, and at community events. Campaign messages also will be delivered through online, radio and television public-service announcements.

A common misperception is that an individual must have a child in school to participate in the tax-credit program. But all Arizona taxpayers — regardless of whether they’re parents or have kids in school — may contribute to the schools of their choice.

“This campaign is a direct appeal to everyone who wants to ensure that a child gets to play the trombone while marching in a bowl parade or has a chance to develop a lifelong passion for sports or the arts,” Stanton said. “It’s an opportunity to make a measurable difference for students attending schools with the most underfunded programs in the city.”

It will take everyone to make a difference, he added: the business community, nonprofits, neighborhood organizations, and many more to contribute to the state school tax-credit program and get their employees to chip in, too.

The campaign was created by Cramer-Krasselt, the nation’s second-largest integrated marketing agency.

For more information about the program, including how to contribute and a list of Phoenix school districts, please go to kidsaremissingout.com.