FAQ: What is “Materials for One Project”?

Definition

We are not allowed to spend state funding on anything of value that a student/parent then "keeps" as a benefit of being enrolled in our school. On the other hand, ESs have made the case that it takes a bit of fabric for students to learn to sew straight stitches, do fancy techniques like button holes, edgings, etc. It takes a pile of wood to learn to saw, hammer, nail, stain, paint, etc. It takes a bit of yarn to learn to the basic knit/crochet stitches.

Responsibility to Monitor Compliance

The office staff cannot separate out what the order is for, therefore, the ordering ESs must monitor this themselves. Use the questions below to help you make a determination before you place an order.

1. Will this leave a student/parent with a "thing of value" when the activity is complete? If so, do not order.

2. Will these school purchased materials allow a student to begin to learn and practice a skill only, and not result in a “thing of value”? If so, do order.

3. Have I purchased this item in the past for this student? If so, do not order.

4. Is this a "learning project", or a practice of already learned skills? If it is for learning and meets the above criteria, then it can be ordered.

Examples:

A. A purchase of 1 yard of fabric, or 1/2 yard of 4 different types of fabrics, along with thread, a zipper, etc. will allow a student to learn to sew and make correct stitches, put in a zipper, etc, without ending up with a disallowed "thing of value" in the end.

B. A purchase of 3 yards of satin, a pattern, thread, a zipper that will end up with a Bridesmaid's dress to fit the student is against California law.

C. If it is a small kit of a variety of wood types and sizes, and the student will practice using tools safely, practice various connection techniques, try out different types of stain and paint techniques, then it is OK to order 1 time per student.

D. If it is wood of the correct type and style for the student to end up with a bookshelf for their room, this is against California law.

E. A purchase of one skein of various weights of yarn along with various size needles and hooks to allow a student to learn the basic knit/crochet stitches is an appropriate order.

F. A purchase of 10 skeins along with a pattern for a sweater for the student is against California law.