Annual Fund

The Annual Fund Appeal is the cornerstone of San Francisco Waldorf School’s development program.

Each year, parents, teachers, trustees, staff, friends, grandparents, and neighbors impact the lives of our students by contributing to the Annual Fund.

Annual Fund contributions are essential to the day to day operations of the school, and are tax-deductible for the donor. These funds help fill the gap in the operating budget — of about $2,950 per student in 2008-2009 — that is not covered by tuition and other fees. They help to pay for everything that facilitates the teaching in the classrooms, like instructional materials and equipment, facilities and utilities, and faculty and staff salaries.

Each year, as we continue our work with the wonderful children and young people here at San Francisco Waldorf School, we feel a renewed appreciation for everything that makes this school so vibrant and successful. The ongoing commitment and involvement of numerous people in many roles all contribute to the vitality of our school. Each year we build upon prior efforts as we continue to grow and nurture our children and the school.

Please join with us in ensuring that the Annual Fund Appeal continues to be secure bedrock upon which to build the future of the Waldorf School by making your pledge or contribution today.

Annual Fund Appeal Q & A

What is the Annual Fund Appeal?

The Annual Fund Appeal is a direct appeal to trustees, parents, grandparents, alumni parents, alumni, faculty, staff and friends for financial contributions in support of the school’s operating budget.

Why is the Annual Fund Necessary?

Tuition and other fees cover about 84% of the annual operating expenses of the school, and the purpose of the Annual Fund is to help bridge this gap.

Why not raise tuition?

No independent school could charge the full cost of educating its students without pricing itself out of the market. That’s why every independent school has an Annual Fund Appeal. In addition, tuition is a non-tax-deductible contracted contribution to the school, while gifts to the Annual Fund are fully tax-deductible.

What makes SFWS an independent school?

We design our own program and curriculum, operate without financial support from federal or state government agencies, and are self-governed by our Board of Trustees and our College of Teachers. Unlike public schools, which are funded by tax dollars, independent schools rely solely upon tuition revenues and philanthropic gifts to meet their operating and capital expenses.

Are there other fundraising activities besides the Annual Fund at SFWS?

Yes. In addition to asking everyone in the school to participate in the Annual Fund, we have several events and ongoing projects each year that strive to raise significant funds, such as the Spring Night Dinner and Auction, the Market Fair, and the scrip program. Each of these helps to raise funds for the operating budget.

Do corporations and foundations support the Annual Fund?

Corporations typically contribute to independent schools by offering matching gifts to their employees’ contributions. Several families in our school are able to double their personal contributions through their employer’s matching gift programs - you may want to check with your employer to see if such a program is in place where you work.

Why is participation important?

The school’s financial strength is dependent upon the participation of all members of its constituency. Your participation generates enthusiasm and encourages others to join you in supporting the school, and it is a key indicator to foundation and corporate donors that we have consistent support from those we serve, both past and present. Recently, in a grant notification letter from the Waldorf Schools Fund, President Gloria Kemp wrote “It is indeed a pleasure to support an initiative at your school where the enormous success of the Annual Fund Appeal speaks of the high degree of commitment and support coming from the school community.”

How much should I give?

You are the only one who knows how much you are able to give, and we ask only that you give to the best of your ability.

Can I donate stock to the Annual Fund?

Yes. This is a great way to make a gift to the school. Giving appreciates securities provides you with a tax deduction for the appreciated value of the stock without incurring capital gains tax. Our Development Office (415-931-2750) would be very pleased to provide you with details on how to make stock gifts.