Silver Rail PTO reports nearly $70k in online donations, promises families a voice in spending
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Silver Rail Elementary School PTO says its two existing online fundraisers now show nearly $70,000 in contributions, but the organization has not yet developed a plan for how that money will be used.
In an extensive update sent to Silver Rail families, the PTO outlined its response since the October 15th shooting, provided an accounting of the money raised so far, and promised parents would have a role in deciding how those funds are spent.
The organization said it had about $9,000 remaining for school events after allocating a large portion of its preexisting funds to teachers and the school. Before the shooting, the board and a parent volunteer had also raised approximately $47,715 to support the PTO’s work during the next school year.
The PTO had two active GiveButter campaigns before October 15th: one supporting its Fun Run and another collecting general, year-round contributions. After the shooting, members of the public found both campaigns and began donating.
The two campaigns currently show a combined total of approximately $69,742, according to the PTO. The organization said that money has not yet been moved or deposited.
The PTO said it currently has possession of a small number of checks totaling approximately $3,100. It is also waiting for proceeds from several community fundraisers and business giveback events.
PTO leaders cautioned families that not every fundraiser connected to Silver Rail benefits the PTO directly. The organization said it does not control those outside fundraisers and may not know where their proceeds are being directed.
Spending plan still being developed
The board said it has not decided how the donations under its control will be spent.
PTO leaders said they first need more information about how long counseling, childcare, and other assistance will remain available, as well as which needs will be covered by Bend-La Pine Schools.
“The Board is committed to working together with every family at Silver Rail to make these decisions together,” the organization wrote.
The PTO also emphasized that the school district has a separate Silver Rail donation fund and is not seeking access to money raised for the PTO. Its board said it has offered to work with the district, including providing financial support, to help implement what Silver Rail families say they need.
PTO describes ongoing response
The PTO said its board has received hundreds of emails, calls, texts, and social media messages since the shooting, including approximately 50 messages per hour during the first several days.
Over the following eight days, volunteers organized a gathering for Silver Rail families, helped coordinate a soccer camp with Bend FC, and connected parents with events, childcare, donated items, and other community resources.
The board also met with Bend-La Pine Schools’ deputy superintendent and chief financial officer.
According to the PTO’s account of that meeting, district officials said the initial law-enforcement investigation had closed and additional reviews involving the U.S. Department of Justice, Oregon OSHA, and other agencies would follow. KTVZ News has not independently confirmed that update with the investigating agencies.
The PTO said district leaders are also meeting with Silver Rail teachers and staff members and reviewing feedback from families as they consider the school community’s future.
PTO leaders said they will meet with district officials again after survey results and post-incident reports become available.
The organization also plans to provide every Silver Rail student with a free sweatshirt and beanie, distribute donated items, support staff members, and explore ways to continue traditional school events.
A future PTO meeting is expected to be held at the Downtown Bend Library, although a date has not yet been announced. The organization said volunteers will also be needed to sort and distribute cards, artwork, blankets, toys, and other items being sent to Silver Rail students and staff.
