What is an Annual Fund?

The Annual Fund is a program to raise funds to assist in paying the operating expenses of the school.  We rely on charitable giving to close the gap between expenses and revenue.  These funds help to support talented teachers, relevant resources, contributions in arts, athletics, mathematics, science, and much more.  It is important to note that there are many others, some who have gone before you and others who remain, who support Clear Water Academy out of gratitude for the opportunities an education here has provided.

How much should I give?

It is our hope that Clear Water Academy will be your family’s top philanthropic priority. Individual gifts to the Annual Fund range from $10 to tens of thousands.  Only you can decide how much you wish to commit.  As a guideline, parents are asked to consider a minimum of $1000 ($80 per month) toward our Annual Fund and donors of $1500 or more join our Co-Founders’ Society.  We strive for 100% participation from our families, staff, and faculty by the close of the Annual Fund. 

I can’t give as much as I’d like.  Should I just wait until next year when I can give more?

Please don’t wait!  Every gift of any size is important to Clear Water Academy and our students.  Your contribution at any level demonstrates your support of the Academy’s efforts on behalf of your children.

Why is it so important to have 100% participation?

There are many reasons why Clear Water Academy strives to obtain 100% participation from families, staff, and faculty in our fundraising, particularly for the Annual Fund.  The Annual Fund, more so than any other fundraising initiative, binds together alumni, current families, and faculty in a common vision.  The Annual Fund is an opportunity to transform individual generosity into a collective force, invigorating the school with energy and a common purpose.  The percentage of participation is a critical factor in our ability to demonstrate broad-based support when foundations and corporations consider making a contribution to Clear Water Academy.  Finally, the Annual Fund has the potential to create long-lasting change, and with increased participation, the possibilities for additional programs and resources at Clear Water Academy become virtually infinite.

I support Clear Water Academy by paying tuition.  Why isn’t that enough?

Tuitions plus government grants do not fully cover the cost of an education at Clear Water Academy.  The total cost of educating a student at Clear Water Academy averages $11,000 per year.  The internal infrastructure required to deliver Clear Water Academy’s educational model fully and effectively is extensive.  Further, our commitment to gender specific teaching requires an investment beyond that of co-educational environments.  In order to make this formative and effective model of education financially viable while keeping our tuitions affordable for families, we endeavor to raise funds through our Annual Fund.

Charitable donations, such as those made through the Annual Fund, can also be eligible for a matching gift from your employer.  This allows you to double or even triple your gift and helps a much larger community to become involved in supporting Clear.  Tuition is not eligible for such matching gifts.

Giving through United Way

When you donate to United Way you can direct your funds to Clear; charitable registration number 89365 0259.  Many corporations have a policy of matching the contributions.  For example, if you work for a company with a matching gift program and you contribute $800 to our Annual Fund, your company may match your gift or a percentage of your gift.  Please inquire with your company’s Human Resource Department about their matching gift program.

Annual Fund Appeal Letter
Donation Card

For information contact Margaret Matthews
mmatthews@clearwateracademy.com