Why we have one and how it helps you.
The cost of educating each student at Millwood School exceeds the amount paid in tuition. Tuition is set at the level it is to make it more affordable for more parents, but the school still needs to raise money to cover these additional costs. These costs are covered through the Annual Fund Campaign, the annual auction, the golf tournament, and other development (fundraising) efforts throughout the year.
The Annual Fund Campaign is the only campaign dedicated to raising unrestricted gifts for the school. Because these gifts are unrestricted and because the donor is not “purchasing” anything with the contribution, these gifts are eligible for charitable tax receipts.
Schools with high participation rates in their Annual Fund Campaigns tend to demonstrate success as an institution. Because of this correlation, participation rate percentage figures have become a standard measurement used by outsiders to evaluate schools. This figure is widely reported to local and national institutions such as the National Association of Independent Schools. It is utilized by prospective parents when they are considering enrollment. And the parent participation percentage rate is a required entry on virtually all requests for outside financial assistance from corporations, endowments, and foundations. For these reasons, the fact that you participate is more important than the amount you donate.
Vision for the Future
Our development program has helped bring the Millwood School to where it is today. The success we have enjoyed can be directly attributed to trustees, parents, friends, and staff. Looking ahead, the school intends to continue its legacy of excellence and growth. If the school is to continue evolving, Millwood’s development efforts will be required to evolve as well.
Capital improvement, expansion, and growth are desirable, especially since the educational environment we enjoy only extends through the eighth grade. Continuing to finance this growth exclusively through our existing constituents is not realistic. It is for this reason we would like to focus more attention on raising funds from outside sources. Corporations, endowments, and foundations, provide millions of dollars in educational donations each year.
To assist us in seeking outside support, the most important step you can take is to participate in the Annual Fund Campaign. Whether you contribute $1 or $1,000, the fact that you participated is recorded and will be represented in our school’s statistics.
Please contribute as generously as you can; each contribution makes a significant difference to Millwood School students immediately and in years to come. These voluntary contributions are tax-deductible and provide a cost-effective means of supporting your child's education. Please see our Participate Card outlining different ways to make a gift or pledge, or you may donate online now through our secure online giving form. All contributors to the Annual Fund are proudly named in the Annual Report presented in Millwood Milestones during the summer issue.
With strong Annual Fund Support, Millwood School can advance to the highest level of independent schools. To succeed, we must call upon the loyalty and generosity of our parents, alumni parents, alumni, friends, and grandparents. |