MCS Fund FAQ’s

What is the goal of this year’s MCS Fund?

Our goal this year is 100% participation from MCS board, families, and staff.

My family already pays tuition – Why should I donate to the MCS Fund?

At MCS, like a majority of independent schools, tuition does not cover the full cost of your child’s learning experience. Contributions to the MCS Fund support the people and the environment that makes MCS so special.

Why not set tuition high enough to cover the cost?

Not all socio-economic circumstances are the same. Higher tuition might prevent a family from considering or enrolling their child(ren) at MCS. In addition, we currently set our tuition to remain competitive with area independent schools Contributions to the MCS Fund are tax-deductible while tuition is not.

• Donations made to the MCS Fund are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.

• Montessori Community School is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, EIN 56-127716.

Can my donation really make a difference?

Every gift, no matter what the size, has an immediate and lasting impact on the MCS community. Your gift is an investment in MCS education that provides our students with an essential set of skills: agency, empathy, a healthy sense of self, and the ability to thrive in diverse and complex environments. In addition, our goal of 100% participation from board members, current families, and faculty/staff is often used as a data point by major funders and foundations to evaluate the stability of a non-profit school.

How is my contribution used?

The 2025-26 MCS Fund directly supports our deeply held community practices:

• Supporting Signature Student Experiences with learning opportunities beyond the classroom, including outdoor learning spaces and off-campus experiences.

• Embracing a Growth Mindset throughout our campus with robust professional development for faculty and staff.

• Advancing Equity among our Communities of People through funding programs such as Student Support and Financial Assistance.

Is there a way to make my gift go further?

Yes! Many employers match your donation. Reach out to your company’s HR representative to determine if your employer has a donation matching program. Employer matching is an easy way to double or even triple your donation to the MCS Fund and will count towards your family’s total contribution level.

How long do I have to pay my MCS Fund pledge?

The MCS Fund is aligned with MCS’s fiscal year, which runs from July 1 to June 30, so the MCS Fund starts at zero each year. It is important for MCS to receive all contributions before June 30 of each fiscal year. MCS will provide you with a gift receipt that you may use in your income tax filings for the tax year in which your payment was made.

How can I give?

You can donate online via our secure form, by cash or check at the front office, or by signing up for automatic monthly payments through ACH. Contact [email protected] for assistance with ACH setup.

Can I keep my donation confidential?

Yes. Either notify the Director of Advancement, [email protected] that you would like to be listed as an anonymous donor or make that selection on the online donation form.

Have questions?

Please contact Tal Wittle, Director of Advancement at [email protected] or by calling 919-493-8541 ext. 115.