Annual Giving

Capital Campaign

Endowment Info

General Questions & Answers

General Questions & Answers

Why is Lakehill Preparatory School called an independent school?
Lakehill Preparatory School is an independent school because it designs its own programs and curriculum, operates without financial support from the national or state government, and is governed by its own Board of Directors. Unlike public schools, which are funded by tax dollars, independent schools rely solely upon tuition fees, endowment income and proceeds from fundraising to meet their operating expenses.

What is Annual Giving?
Annual Giving is a yearly appeal for donations to support the current operations of the school. These gifts help enhance the day-to-day life of every student and faculty member by supporting a variety of programs, including academics, faculty development, the arts, athletics, college counseling, technology, and the library.

What is the purpose of Annual Giving? Isn’t tuition enough?
The success of Annual Giving has a direct impact on the quality of Lakehill Preparatory School’s programs. The average cost of educating each student in 2007-2008 school year is around $12,200, while the average tuition per student is $11,100. There is a shortfall or gap per student of $1,100. Dollars raised by Annual Giving are crucial to bridge the gap between tuition income and operating expenses. The heart of the operating budget includes teachers’ salaries, educational materials, the financial aid program, and facilities maintenance. Annual Giving keeps tuition down and ensures that a Lakehill education is accessible to a diverse population.

How much should I give?
We ask each person to participate at a level appropriate for his or her circumstances. Gifts can range from $1 to fully meeting the gap between operating cost and tuition. Some donors give enough to bring a worthy student to our classroom on financial aid. All gifts are vital and appreciated.

What is the difference between Annual Giving and the Capital Campaign?
Capital campaigns are conducted periodically to provide significant funds for growth. The current campaign underway is to build an environmental center, expand the athletic facilities and strengthen the school’s presence within the Lakewood community through building enhancements. Contributions to the fund are generally pledged over three to five years. Annual Giving is designed to offset annual operating expenses. It is paid by the end of the academic/fiscal year and is also spent within that year.

Does my gift really count?
Regardless of the size of gift, every gift counts. Maximizing participation is not only a testament to a donor’s belief in what we are doing, it is a statement to foundations, corporations, and prospective students that Lakehill comprises a community actively involved in the advancement of its mission.