Masters Fund FAQ

List of 10 frequently asked questions.

• What is the Masters Fund?

  The Masters Fund is an opportunity for our community to ensure that Masters continues to offer the highest quality education possible. Tuition alone does not cover the cost of providing our students with the exceptional, rigorous academic program Masters is committed to offering. While public schools are eligible to receive state and federal funding, The Masters School, as an independent school, is not. As such, every year, Masters must raise the difference between tuition and the operating budget through the Masters Fund. 

• Why should I contribute to the Masters Fund? Isn't tuition enough?

  The Masters Fund allows us to say “Yes!” to programs and supplies that further enhance every student’s experience. The Masters Fund has a direct impact on the quality of a Masters education: It guarantees that our programs are led by talented faculty, and that students have access to access to cutting edge technology, equipment and supplies. Gifts to the Masters Fund comprise approximately 6% of the School’s operating budget. 

• Who gives to the Masters Fund?

  We rely on the entire Masters community to make a meaningful financial contribution to the Masters Fund. Last year, more than 1,000 alumnae/i, parents, parents of alumnae/i, grandparents, faculty and staff gave to this vital initiative.

• Why is participation so important?

  Participation is the greatest way for our community to demonstrate confidence in The Masters School’s mission and programs. Not only does participation help foster more individual donations, but when foundations are determining if a grant should be made to the School, they look to parent and alumnae/i participation rates, which showcase how those groups feel about the School. By contributing to the Masters Fund, you are endorsing the School’s mission; high levels of participation send a strong message that the community stands with the School. Every gift, no matter the amount, is 

• Does it matter when I make a contribution?

  Yes. A gift or pledge made early in the school year is of particular importance, because it allows us to know how much money will be available to support the budget. Once you have made your annual gift or pledge, you will not receive another Masters Fund solicitation until the next fiscal year.

• How are gifts to the Masters Fund used?

  The effects of the Masters Fund are felt throughout the campus. The Masters Fund provides resources for the operating budget, which supports items like cutting-edge technology. The Masters Fund ensures the best teaching tools and classroom equipment, athletic and arts programs, maintenance of our 96-acre campus, financial aid, faculty salaries and more.

• How can I make a gift?

  To give online, click here. Instructions for making a gift by check, wire transfer or stock gift are located here. You can also increase the impact of your gift by finding out if your company offers gift matches.

• If I can't make a large gift, does a smaller gift make a difference?

  Yes! Masters values every gift regardless of the size. Last year, one quarter of all donors gave $100 or less, which represented tens of thousands of dollars. Masters greatly values participation at any level, as it ensures the strength of our Masters Fund year after year.

• How much should I donate to the Masters Fund?

  We anticipate that parents will make The Masters School their highest philanthropic priority while their children are students here. We also believe alumnae/i will recognize the critical importance Masters played in their success and will support the School's ability to provide a similar opportunity for those who follow. Masters Fund gifts to the School range in size from $5 to $50,000. While leadership gifts are important for the School's financial strength, every gift does matter, and every gift does make a difference in closing the gap between tuition and the cost of a Masters education. 

• Are Masters Fund gifts tax deductible? 

  The Masters School is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization under the Federal Internal Revenue Code. Unlike tuition fees, all contributions to the Masters Fund are deductible pursuant to the prevailing tax laws. All donors to the Masters Fund receive a letter noting their gift amount, date of gift, and the disclosure that no goods or services were provided.