Giving FAQ

Q. Why should I give to the Annual Fund?

A. Here are just a few reasons:

1. Your gift is a vital source of funding for important St. John’s programs. We budget a “gap” between tuition revenue and total expenses with the expectation that we will receive additional funds through fundraising. This helps keep tuition lower and provide a tax-deductible way to support St. John’s. For more information visit the Annual Fund FAQ.

2. Your gift is tax deductible!

3. This is a wonderful opportunity to involve your children and discuss the importance of philanthropy.

4. Rise to the challenge set forth by St. John’s faculty and staff. Even during tough economic times, 94% of St. John’s faculty and staff have contributed to the Annual Fund to show their support and commitment to the School. Join them!

5. The CAIS (California Association of Independent Schools) evaluation team visited the school as part of St. John’s accreditation process.  Overall, the team was extremely impressed, specifically with the kindness, politeness, and character demonstrated by our students (your children!). However, one of their preliminary recommendations was to improve the philanthropic culture of the School community. Annual Fund participation is the clearest measure of this, so let’s prove that we are a philanthropic community!!

6. The grade level with the highest participation will win free dress for a day and an extended lunchtime party with food, fun and activities!

Q. Why does St. John's charge tuition and then ask for more money through fundraising?

Tuition alone only covers roughly 84% of the cost of a St. John's education. St. John's is an independent, nonprofit organization and, unlike public schools, it receives no government funding. While the School is associated with the Church, the two are separate financial entities and funds are not co-mingled. This means that 16% of the school budget must be made up each year through fundraising activities such as Annual Fund and Cardinella.

Q. If tuition doesn't cover expenses, why not raise tuition?

St. John's strives to keep tuition at a manageable level for a wide range of families. By increasing fundraising efforts rather than tuition, St. John's is able to not only maintain, but continually enhance, the high level of education offered, while keeping tuition increases moderate. Contributions made to the school above and beyond tuition are considered donations and therefore offer parents the additional benefit of a tax deduction.

Q. How much should I give?

While we hope that each family will consider a gift of $500, many will choose to support the Annual Fund at a level above or below this amount. Only you can decide what level of support is right for your family. A good rule of thumb is to give enough that you care how the funds are spent. Please remember that your contribution, at whatever level you choose, is a meaningful investment, the returns of which directly benefit your child and the entire St. John's community.

Q. What is the average parent contribution?

The average St. John's parent contribution to the Annual Fund is approximately $525. Gifts typically range from $5 to $10,000. All families are encouraged to reaffirm their commitment to St. John's in the form of an Annual Fund contribution. Even small gifts make a big difference and are greatly appreciated!