Why are contributions to the MCDS Annual Fund important? Doesn’t tuition cover the cost of my child’s education?
There is a gap between the tuition dollars the school receives and the actual costs of operating the school. At MCDS, tuition and fees cover approximately 88% of our annual operating costs. MCDS is not unique in this regard. Most independent schools seek to limit tuition costs and bridge the resulting budget gap with philanthropy.
Why don’t you raise tuition to cover the full cost of educating each child?
A revenue model that relies on both tuition and philanthropy enables us to keep tuition costs lower, making MCDS accessible to a broader range of families, and allows families to support the school with tax deductible charitable gifts, rather than tuition alone. Tuition is not tax deductible while charitable contributions are.
How much should I give?
Gifts of any size are appreciated and make an impact. MCDS Annual Fund gifts range from $5 to $50,000+. We only ask that you consider giving as generously as you are able. Participation is more important than the amount you give, and every gift counts equally when it comes to participation.
Why does my participation matter?
- Participation reflects parent confidence and commitment to MCDS.
- MCDS alumni view parent participation as a marker of how the school is doing today.
- Annual gifts help cover critical operating costs and fund over 12% of our annual budget.
- Participation is a key measure of our School's financial health.
Should I make a gift to the MCDS Annual Fund every year?
We ask every member of our community to participate every year because the Annual Fund provides more than 12% of our yearly operating budget.
Who do you solicit for the MCDS Annual Fund?
In the spirit of “cultivating a challenging environment and a supportive community,” we ask everyone in our community to participate: parents, alumni, parents of alumni, grandparents, faculty and staff.
If I have multiple kids at MCDS, do I have to make a gift for each child to the Annual Fund?
No! One gift per family counts as participation in the MCDS Annual Fund. So, if you have a child in tenth grade and fourth grade, your gift would count for participation in each grade.
Are gifts to MCDS tax deductible?
MCDS is an exempt organization as described in section 501 (c) 3 of the Internal Revenue Code, and gifts are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Gifts of appreciated stock may offer additional tax benefits. Donors will receive an acknowledgment and receipt for their taxes.
Can I give to the MCDS endowment?
The endowment provides resources — in perpetuity — for the people and programs that make MCDS unique. The funds are invested, and a board-determined percentage of the endowment income is spent each year.
We ask those supporting the endowment to continue giving to the MCDS Annual Fund, as well, due to its critical importance to the School.
Have additional questions?
We’re happy to help! Please contact us at info@madisoncountryday.org.
