1230-POLICY REGARDING BOOSTER ORGANIZATIONS

The Board of Education recognizes that booster organizations can make valuable contributions to district-sponsored programs, activities, and student experiences. The Board appreciates the efforts of parents, community members, and volunteers who support students through these organizations. 


  • Booster organizations are independent, voluntary groups and are not agencies of the District. They operate separately from the Board of Education and the school district and are fully responsible for their own governance, finances, fundraising, insurance coverage, and legal compliance. 


  • To ensure that booster activities align with district goals and maintain the health, safety, and equity of students, the Board establishes the following expectations: 


  • Booster organizations must conduct their activities in a manner consistent with Board policies, district regulations, and all applicable state and federal laws. 


  • Donations of money, equipment, materials, services, or other items must follow district procedures and may only be accepted with the approval of the Superintendent or designee. 


  • Booster organizations may not direct, control, or assume responsibility for the conduct of school programs, student participation decisions, or district personnel. 


  • Booster organizations must coordinate all fundraising efforts, recognition events, awards, and facility use with the appropriate school administrator to ensure compliance with district guidelines and scheduling procedures. 


  • Booster organizations are responsible for maintaining their own insurance coverage; District insurance does not extend to booster activities or obligations. 


  • The Board encourages booster organizations to obtain and maintain 501(c)(3) status to support sound financial practices, transparency, and separation from the District. 


The Superintendent shall develop and maintain administrative regulations that govern the operation of booster organizations. 


Nothing in this policy shall be construed to limit the Superintendent’s authority to enforce compliance or to suspend or prohibit booster activities that conflict with Board policy, district operations, or student safety. 


Legal References: Connecticut Statute 


10-220 – Duties of Boards of Education 


10-237 – Acceptance of Gifts, Grants, and Donations 


10-239 – Use of School Facilities 


Policy adopted: February 18, 2026 NEWTOWN PUBLIC SCHOOLS Newtown, Connecticut

ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS REGARDING BOOSTER ORGANIZATIONS 


Booster Organizations - Administrative RegulationThese guidelines apply to all booster organizations that support district-sponsored programs, activities, or student groups. They are intended to foster productive collaboration, ensure fiscal responsibility, and maintain compliance with Board policies and applicable laws. 


Organizational Status, Governance, and Insurance 


The District recommends that all booster organizations obtain 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status to support transparent financial practices, proper governance, eligibility for grants, the ability to accept tax-deductible donations, and clear separation from the District for liability purposes. 


Booster organizations are voluntary, independent groups that operate outside the authority of the District. Each organization is fully responsible for its own decisions, finances, legal compliance, and internal governance. 


Booster organizations must obtain and maintain their own insurance coverage. District insurance does not extend to booster club activities, and the District assumes no liability for booster-related events, fundraising, purchases, or financial obligations. 


Awards and Recognition 


Booster organizations may provide awards recognizing student participation or achievement. Awards shall be coordinated with the Building Principal or program advisor and presented at an appropriate time. 


Use of School Facilities 


Booster organizations requesting the use of school facilities or services must follow the District’s established facility usage policies and procedures. No booster organization activity may occur on school property without prior approval. 


Recognition Functions 


Booster organizations may sponsor recognition events for students without charging admission to the students being honored. Permission must be requested from the Building Principal to schedule such events and to ensure they do not conflict with other school activities. All recognition events must comply with district policies and promote an inclusive and supportive environment. 


Equipment and Uniforms 


All official uniforms or attire required for district-sponsored programs shall be purchased by the District. “Official uniform or attire” refers to clothing, headgear, or related items that display school colors or logos (excluding shoes), are worn for official performances, competitions, presentations, or events, and are intended to be collected by the school at the conclusion of the program cycle. 


Booster organizations may purchase or donate ancillary gear or apparel—such as supplemental clothing, accessories, equipment, shoes, bags, and similar items—provided the following conditions are met:


  • Purchases and donations must comply with all district policies and procedures. 


  • Items must meet all Board of Education policies and guidelines. 


  • Donations may not conflict with any existing District contracts, exclusive vendor agreements, or sponsorships. 


  • Proposed contracts or agreements must be reviewed by the District’s attorney and the Superintendent or designee. 


  • All decisions must consider Title IX requirements to ensure equitable benefits and services for all genders, where applicable. 


Compliance 


Any conflicts or concerns between a booster organization and district administration shall be resolved by the Superintendent or designee in accordance with these regulations and Board policy. Booster organizations must comply with all state and federal laws relevant to their activities, including those pertaining to financial practices, reporting obligations, and nondiscrimination. 


Booster organizations shall not engage in any activity outside the scope of these guidelines. 


Policy adopted: February 18, 2026 NEWTOWN PUBLIC SCHOOLS Newtown, Connecticut