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  • 1.  Budget Restrictions for Props and Costumes

    Posted 03-20-2025 12:20

    Hi everyone,

    I'm reaching out for some advice regarding the funds I've been allocated from my school's budget. I've been told I can only purchase items through Shop DOE, but unfortunately, there are no props or costumes listed that would work for my elementary classroom. I'm in need of specific materials to enhance the learning experience, but I'm unsure how to move forward given the limitations.

    Has anyone faced a similar situation? What steps did you take to purchase props and costumes outside of Shop DOE? Are there any other options or workarounds I should consider, such as vendor approvals or requisition forms?

    I'd really appreciate any suggestions or guidance you can offer. Thanks in advance!

    Best,



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    T'Ana Lightfoot
    NYCDOE - Office of Arts and Special Projects
    NY
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  • 2.  RE: Budget Restrictions for Props and Costumes

    Posted 03-21-2025 06:25

    Can you request that an organization be set up as an approved vendor? It appears that Shop DOE does not meet the requirements for your curricular focus. We are in control of our budgets and purchasing but must set up vendors to purchase from. 



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    Jo Pillsbury
    Theatre Director
    Rochester Adams High School
    MI
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  • 3.  RE: Budget Restrictions for Props and Costumes

    Posted 03-21-2025 06:33
    Edited by Rachel Ferrari-Engel 03-21-2025 06:33

    Will the district allow you purchase with your own personal funds and get reimbursed? I purchase as much as I can through accounts that the school district has, but then the rest of my purchasing comes via my credit card (unfortunately) and I submit for reimbursement.  I'm not endorsing this method, I do not think anyone should have to do this as an expected thing... With this method, I can purchase from wherever you want.. We are even able use FB marketplace to purchase used furniture/props/ or items from other theaters.. we use the post as the receipt/transaction.



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    Rachel Ferrari-Engel
    Pittsburgh Brashear High School
    Pittsburgh Pa

    Original Message:
    Sent: 03-20-2025 08:47
    From: T'Ana Lightfoot
    Subject: Budget Restrictions for Props and Costumes

    Hi everyone,

    I'm reaching out for some advice regarding the funds I've been allocated from my school's budget. I've been told I can only purchase items through Shop DOE, but unfortunately, there are no props or costumes listed that would work for my elementary classroom. I'm in need of specific materials to enhance the learning experience, but I'm unsure how to move forward given the limitations.

    Has anyone faced a similar situation? What steps did you take to purchase props and costumes outside of Shop DOE? Are there any other options or workarounds I should consider, such as vendor approvals or requisition forms?

    I'd really appreciate any suggestions or guidance you can offer. Thanks in advance!

    Best,



    ------------------------------
    T'Ana Lightfoot
    NYCDOE - Office of Arts and Special Projects
    NY
    ------------------------------