Friends of The Elysian Charter School of Hoboken

In 1997, the Elysian Charter School of Hoboken, one of the earliest charter schools in New Jersey, was founded. Soon thereafter, the Friends of Elysian Charter School, a 501(c)(3) organization, was formed with the mission of raising funds that will benefit the school.

Charter School Challenges: As a charter school, Elysian has specific financial challenges. The State of New Jersey does not assist charter schools with building or maintaining school facilities (in Elysian’s case, two floors of a mixed-use building). And so, as compared with the Hoboken public schools, on average, Elysian receives 35% less funding per student. Each year there is a financial gap that needs to be filled so that Elysian has the funds needed to continue delivering educational excellence for every one of its 288 students.

Past Funding: Over the years, funds raised by the Friends of Elysian have been used for a variety of school needs, including facilities improvements; technology, arts, and science resources; school trips; athletics; and cultural events. More recently, the Friends of Elysian completed a three-year capital campaign in partnership with Elysian’s PTSO and Board of Trustees to support the school’s 2015 move to a new building and to assist with general financial stability.

Present & Future Funding: In addition to covering basic facility costs and supporting the school’s operating budget, Friends’ funding helps procure and implement vital school programs and services. And starting in 2023, a portion of donations will support PTSO initiatives such as the annual book fair, Halloween parties, graduation, and teacher appreciation.