We are gearing up for Hilltop's Annual Fund Week...
What is it all about anyway?
Hilltop’s Annual Fund Week, October 22 - October 26, 2018
Shortly, we’ll be celebrating “Annual Fund Week” at Hilltop. You will be receiving a mailing that will include a pledge sheet. If you are new to the school, or want a refresher on what it’s all about, please read on…
“Hold on…Hilltop is asking my family for money? We already pay tuition. They want more?”
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 $4,700 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.
“Why limit the Annual Fund ask to only a week?”
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 100% 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. Last year, not only did we get 100% participation from our Board of Trustees…the board doubled their total contribution amount from last year. Additionally, we have incredibly dedicated faculty and staff who have also participated at 100%! What an outstanding show of support for Hilltop!
“What’s the deal about 100% participation from families?”
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."
“Okay, I’m starting to see the point. How much should I give?”
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?
“What if this is not a good time of year for my family to give?”
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 2018-19. Also, keep in mind setting up
monthly installments
is always an option that helps contribute while managing family budgets.
“Okay, show me the FUN!”
Oh, there will be fun… We are delighted to conclude our Annual Fund week with an “Annual Fun” Family Halloween Party! A festive finale for students and parents to mix and mingle (costumes encouraged), play games and dance with everyone’s favorite DJ, Jay Cook! Pizza dinner and light snacks will be served for the children.
During Annual Fund week we’ll have daily email blasts with updates on our progress, some great challenges with homemade delicious incentives and other surprises!
Please join in the Annual Fund!!
