Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about the Foundation.

What is the Foundation? 

Established in 2012, the Gamble Montessori High School Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that raises and distributes funds to:

  • Award need-based scholarships in the fall of each year to current Gamble students to help pay for Montessori Erdkinder field experience fees;

  • Reduce the total cost of Montessori Erdkinder field experiences for all students at Gamble; and

  • Support compelling, innovative Montessori-centered academic programs at Gamble.

Why do we need a Foundation? Doesn’t the school district pay for all of this?

Out-of-classroom Erdkinder field experiences and innovative Montessori-based academic programs go above and beyond the standard curriculum, and are essential elements of the specialized Montessori education provided to students at Gamble. This is similar to how performances, portfolios and artistic courses are essential elements of the specialized education provided at SCPA; or how technology projects and training are essential elements of the specialized education provided at Taft or Hughes.

As with all learning experiences that go above and beyond the standard curriculum, the school district is unable to cover these costs, which therefore must be passed on to students and families. The additional cost to participate in these valuable learning experiences presents a significant hardship for many of Gamble’s families. The Foundation exists to raise money in support of these experiences.

Where does the Foundation get the money?

Great question! The Foundation is primarily supported by individual donors, corporate giving programs (ex. Kroger Community Rewards), private foundations and community grants. We also work with local businesses to provide corporate sponsorships and in-kind contributions. The Foundation has established an endowment fund with the intent that as it grows the interest from the fund will provide annual revenue in perpetuity.

How do students apply for a need-based scholarship?

In the fall of each year, the Foundation will send out detailed instructions on how to apply for a need-based scholarship. The application process has three parts: 1) students submit short answer essays, and designate two teachers for recommendations; 2) parents or guardians submit household financial information; and 3) student-designated teachers provide recommendations.

Are there any other ways that students can raise money to pay for field experiences?

Yes! In fact, we strongly encourage students to actively participate in earning or raising money. Field experiences are much more valuable to students who have put in their own effort to participate.

  • Help friends and neighbors with yard work (raking leaves, shoveling snow, pet clean up), running errands, walking dogs or babysitting.

  • Ask family members to sponsor you with cash gifts instead of buying Christmas or birthday presents. (This takes courage, but many students have raised quite a bit of money this way!)

  • Work concessions at local sporting events or shows with “Westside Scouters” (age 16 and up)

    • An application and training is required! Participants work concessions for events at Heritage Bank Center, Duke Energy Convention Center, Great American Ball Park, Paycor Stadium, and TQL Stadium. A portion of proceeds are donated based on hours worked and the earnings of the concession stand by each member of the team. [So, the larger the team, the larger the donation!] For more information, please contact Westside Scouters by email: scoutersmembership@gmail.com

  • Participate in the Montessori Market

    • Montessori Market is a student-led micro-economy program at Gamble Montessori High School. With the guidance of faculty advisors, students learn to grow, develop, and market products to be sold to the general public online, and at the Montessori Market events held on campus.

    • For more information, please contact Melissa Schneider, Agriculture Ed teacher.

  • Kroger Community Rewards

    • Designate Gamble Montessori High School as your charity with Kroger Community Rewards. At the end of each quarter, send your rewards statement to us, and the Foundation will allocate the earned rewards to your student’s Gamble field experience fees. (Tell friends and family to do the same! It all adds up!) NOTE: Any Kroger Rewards funds not used for Gamble Montessori High School field experience fees will be returned to the Foundation’s general fund.

Does the Foundation welcome new members?

Absolutely! We would love to have you! Membership is open to parents/guardians, grandparents/family, alumni, staff, teachers, and community members. There is NO fee or minimum donation required in order to serve. We typically meet on the first Wednesday of each month during the school year. CLICK HERE to sign up.

Does the Foundation need donations? 

Yes! If you are in a position to support us with a donation, we would be very grateful to receive it. Gifts of any amount truly make a difference. CLICK HERE to donate now, or you may send a check to the school office, payable to Gamble Montessori High School Foundation. 

What if I still have questions?

CLICK HERE to contact us via this website, or send us an email.