Support

Volunteer Opportunities

Students and their families are very important to St. Mark’s and how successful the school is in educating each child. Recognizing that the family is the first educator of children, the school works hand in hand with parents in both the student’s academic and spiritual learning experience.  There are numerous opportunities, beyond the home, where parents are encouraged and welcome to assist at the school and in the classroom.  St. Mark’s has an excellent volunteer program which includes such varied tasks as; helping in classrooms, grading papers, working in the lunchroom or library, driving for field trips, serving on the School Board or Home and School Association, helping with fundraisers, the list goes on and on. Parent volunteers are able to claim a certain amount of hours each year toward a credit on their tuition statement, and added bonus. Parents are also invited to attend the school’s weekly liturgy which is planned and executed by a different class each week.  During the Advent and Lenten season, students lead schoolwide prayer services, which parents are also encouraged to attend.

The school has a vibrant and active Home and School Association.  Their mission is to financially support the education provided to St. Mark’s School students through fundraising activities.  Their vision is to encourage strong school family relationships by sponsoring community building events and provide an avenue for parents and teachers to give voice in advancing spiritual and educational interests within the school community.  Funds raised by the Home and School are used in the annual budget, for classroom and teacher needs and  major building and maintenance needs such as the recent addition to the school.  The annual Dinner Auction is their main fundraiser. This event generates, on average, $90,000 to $125,000 per year.

The purpose of the School Board is to define policies and assist in the governance of Catholic education at St. Mark’s School.  Such policies include the planning and operation of the school, determining the budget and tuition rates, and establishment of operations consistent with the policies of the Diocese of Boise.  The St. Mark’s School Board is advisory to the pastor of St. Mark’s Parish who retains ultimate authority regarding the school’s operation.  Board members are elected by parents and serve a two year term.

The St. Mark’s School Foundation is in place to ensure that quality, affordable Catholic education is available to this and future generations.  The foundation invests and manages funds raised through endowments, grants, bequests and cash donations.  Interest revenue from these funds will offset rising costs, keeping tuition at affordable levels and providing scholarships, technology and facility upgrades.

Parents from St. Mark’s School hold numerous positions at St. Mark’s Parish including positions on the Parish Council, Finance Council, Stewardship Council, and other ministries within the parish. They serve as Eucharistic ministers, ushers, etc.