Hilltop Montessori School works hard to keep tuition as affordable as possible for as many families as possible. The tuition income that we receive from parents does not cover the cost of each student. As a matter of fact, there is on average about a $5,000 gap between tuition income per student and the actual cost of a Hilltop education. That gap is covered in part by state funding we receive thanks to our participation in various special programs. Some of it is covered with grants and foundation donors. The critical piece is from families, alumni, alumni families, grandparents, alumni grandparents and businesses, who help us close that gap by giving tax-deductible contributions in accordance with their financial ability.
Short & sweet…we do not want to prolong the request beyond the week.
We approach the staff, faculty, board and current parent community first because this is the group that sets the tone for Annual Fund giving for the rest of our Hilltop community and beyond. Shouting from the rooftops that we have the support of our constituents sends a very strong message that we’re worthy of support! We then proceed through the year to contact grandparents, friends, and businesses.
The higher the current family participation in the Annual Fund, the more likely we are to appeal to major donors.
Here is a lovely quote from a major donor, from a year we had 100% participation, including our current parent group…I think these words are poignant.
“100% participation in an Annual Fund is absolutely unprecedented! Congratulations!! That really shows the commitment your parents have to their children’s wonderful school.”
That part is up to you. Last year, gifts from current parents ranged from $20 to $3,700 with an average gift of $292. Many families who felt strapped but wanted to give a little bit more, opted to pay a smaller amount automatically each month using PayPal or credit card. $10 a month for nine months is an amazing gift! We’re asking families to stretch this year. Could you afford to give, say 10, 20 or even 50% more than you did last year? If you gave $20 last year, could you give $25 this year?
That’s okay.
You can always make a pledge during Annual Fund week and pay later. You have until June 30th to make a contribution to the Annual Fund for 2022-23. Also, keep in mind setting up monthly installments is always an option that helps contribute while managing family budgets.
Your gift benefits every student and every classroom. The Annual Fund supports:
The Annual Fund dollars are a crucial component of the school’s operating budget.
Hilltop will thank you profusely, and you will not be asked to give to the Annual Fund until next year.
Yes! As allowed by the IRS, all charitable gifts are tax-deductible. Hilltop Montessori School is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.
We publicly acknowledge all our donors in a list of names published in the monthly newsletter and the Annual Report, but we will not share the specific dollar amount of contributions. Your gift may be completely anonymous if you would prefer – just let us know.
One of the most valuable aspects of the Annual Fund is its flexibility. Annual Fund contributions, like tuition payments, go into the general operating budget. This system allows us to set budgetary priorities and to react quickly to opportunities and needs as they arise.
Endowment gifts, financial aid support, and contributions to our endowment are different ways to create a lasting legacy at Hilltop. Contact Erin Wessel, Development Director, or stop by her office to discuss.
Yes! Please contact Tamara Mount, Head of School, or Erin Wessel, Director of Development, with any questions. Stop by, call or email Tamara [email protected] or Erin [email protected] and they will do their best to answer your questions.