If a principal enters a free after-school camp with a local community center and no funds exchanged, what is the logical next step?

• A. Draft a memorandum of understanding for both parties to sign.
• B. Notify students about the camp.
• C. Increase school day by one hour.
• D. Approve the event and move on.

Answer: (A)

When two organizations collaborate on a program, the immediate step is to formalize the partnership with a written memorandum of understanding. Even without money changing hands, an MOU lays out who is responsible for what, where and when the activities will take place, safety and supervision plans, facility use, transportation, and any in-kind contributions. It also helps address risk management, liability, background checks, insurance, and reporting procedures, ensuring both parties are clear about expectations and compliance with district policies. This written agreement protects the district, the community partner, and the students by preventing misunderstandings as the program is planned and implemented. After the arrangement is documented, communicating details to families and students can proceed, but jumping straight to approval without the formal agreement could leave gaps in accountability and safety.