What is an extracurricular activity?
Extracurricular activity means any optional, non-credit educational or recreational activity that supplements the education program of the school. Activities such as sports, visual and performing arts, special programs, character building, field trips, clubs, outdoor education, gifted programs, or classroom enrichment programs can be funded with tax credit money.

Extracurricular activities help children develop qualities such as leadership, team play, and cooperation, as well as, provide safe, supervised activities after school hours.

What is a tax credit?
A tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in the actual tax owed. For example, if you owe $800 in state income taxes and you donate $400 to a public school for extracurricular activities, you may subtract the $400 from your tax bill and pay the state just $400.

Who is eligible?
This tax credit is available to all Arizona individual taxpayers regardless of whether or not they have children in school. An individual can contribute and receive a tax credit for any amount up to $200, or a couple filing jointly can contribute up to $400.

Does all of my money go to extracurricular activities?
Yes, 100 percent of your donation goes directly to the schools for extracurricular activities that benefit students by enriching campus life and learning. None of the money is used for overhead.

Can I designate where I want my money to go?
Yes, you can say where you want your donation to go. You can choose your child's school or an extracurricular activity that they participate in. You can choose a school based on student poverty, type of activity, grade levels or location. If you want to donate to a school or an activity where not all parents can afford to contribute, you may do this.
How schools use ECA contributions

Do I have to donate the full $200 or $400?
No, you may donate up to your $200 or $400 limit in installments during the calendar year or donate it at one time. Any individual who pays Arizona State income tax can donate - you do not need to live in the Mesa Public Schools district.

How can I make a contribution?

Forms and Online Payment

Tax Credit Contribution Form : Download the Tax Credit Contribution form in Word format or Adobe Acrobat format. Print the form and mail to the address listed on the form.

Online Tax Credit Contribution: You may also make a tax credit contribution online. The link will take you to a secure site.

Your tax credit receipt will be mailed to you. If you have any questions regarding your tax donation, please call (480) 472-0133.

Drop-off Locations and Deadlines:

63 E. Main St.
Lobby drop box
Hours: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays through Dec. 31

Holmes Elementary

Where are you located?

What do I need to register?

What time does school start?

Do students wear uniforms?

What if my child is sick?

How do I find out about assignments and homework?

How do I find out about school events?

What is ECA?