The Thomas Edison Charter Academy on 22nd and Dolores is raising funds for a new, non-grass alternative soccer field after partnering with non-profit America Scores, which brings soccer and poetry programs to urban schools around the country. The public charter school has over 700 students in kindergarten through 8th grade, and a soccer team they say consistently makes it to the playoffs.
From their fundraising website:
The TECA Panthers seek to convert over 5000 sq. ft. of concrete schoolyard into a safe, non-toxic turf soccer field (pending expected approval by SFUSD). This soccer field will enhance structured and unstructured play and physical activity for all students. This carpet of green offers a beautiful, forgivable surface to entice more physical activity and decrease the schoolyard injuries that are all too common. The new field will increase access to safe space and activity for over 700 children each year and be used at least five days/week for eight to ten hours/day.
Every $10 = 1 square foot of turf. It will take $50,000 to fully install the soccer field. Through this funding drive, we are asking for community support to help us raise $10,000, only 20% of the total. We are also working with stakeholders at all levels (America SCORES, corporate sponsors, the TECA school community). Together we can collectively raise 100% of the funds, but we can’t do this without your help.
The school needs $10,000 for a new turf field, and have raised some $4,000 so far. Donate here.