What must be ensured about the money from fundraising?

In the context of fundraising, ensuring that all funds must be transferred to the internal budget is critical for maintaining proper financial oversight and accountability. When funds are raised, they typically need to be tracked within the organization’s financial system, which is often managed through the internal budget. This practice not only provides transparency in how the funds are utilized but also aligns with regulatory requirements for financial reporting and auditing.

Transferring the funds to the internal budget helps to prevent misuse or misallocation, ensuring that each dollar raised is accounted for and used in accordance with the intended purpose of the fundraising effort. This process gives stakeholders, such as school boards and parents, confidence that the money will be used responsibly to support educational goals or initiatives.

Mixing the raised funds with other funds, using them at the principal's discretion without oversight, or merely reporting them to the district office does not provide the same level of accountability and could lead to financial discrepancies or even legal challenges. Therefore, ensuring that the fundraising money is integrated into the internal budget is a best practice that supports fiscal responsibility and effective governance.