Also, when sending the letter home, let them know exactly how much it would cost each parent to send their child to the dance and on the trip and that if they don't get involved, they are going to be canceled, but in a much sweeter, nicer way [img]smile.gif[/img] and that if they don't get involved that you will pick the fundraiser and they might not like what you like and you'd rather have some input.
We have tried this (and it's worked in the past): If we know an event is going to cost about $20 per child, we do the candy bar fundraiser. Not alot of parents like this. We give them the option of selling $50 worth of candy (we make 1/2) or just paying the $25. We always get pleasantly surprised how quickly they are to just send the money in then!
How about sending home a survey with the two events listed and 2 to 3 fundraising options. Let the majority rule when the results are tallied. Also, put an option for their comments. Maybe the cost is too high or they are not really aware of what is going on.
It's worth a shot.
Our parent group had a meeting for our 5th grade parents to make decisions on how to raise money for our 5th grade trip and dance. One parent showed up. We are trying to keep costs low but let the students have a good time. If no one participates we will either have to charge dues or cancel the two events that were chosen by the students. Does anyone have any suggestions. We need to get this together by May.