Erik - I'd be interrested to know if you are a parent at the school or a product rep. There are many sub parts to your 3 point process listed and the process can change based on those. Time, safety/material, parent & student needs, school district policy just to name a few.
You list 3 options for raising the money but have you evaluated what has worked or hasn't worked when fundraising for previous goals?

Hello Board,

I'm trying to help a local PTO improve its fundraising activities and most of the research I have done has lead me to using a process. For example,

1) Identify the problem is (i.e. the school playground needs to be replaced because it's weathered and hazardous).

2) Determine the cost.

3) Explore different funding vehicles (grant, fundraiser, or donation).

Etc...

Does anyone use a process like this, or has anyone ever used this process before? I'm trying to figure out if the research I have done is practical.

Regards,

Erik