Today, more than ever before, we are welcoming families into The Heights who are new to the independent school experience. We would like to take this opportunity to answer some frequently asked questions about charitable giving and the vital role that families and alumni play in ensuring excellence at The Heights.

Why does The Heights ask for contributions in addition to what parents already send to the school in tuition and fees? 

The cost of an independent school education is such that tuition and fees do not cover the total amount needed for educating each student. As is the case with many other independent schools, fundraising efforts are designed to solicit charitable gifts to bridge the roughly $3,000 gap between the price of tuition and the full cost of operating the school.

Is annual giving unique to The Heights? 

No, independent schools have long relied upon the generosity of their communities. Very few independent schools, colleges, or universities meet full operational costs with tuition alone. Gifts to the Crescite Fund are 100% tax-deductible.

What is the difference between a capital campaign and annual giving? 

Capital campaigns are organized periodically to address specific needs of the school, most typically in the form of building projects and other improvements. A capital campaign is an important school-wide initiative in which all members of the community are asked to contribute to the extent they are able. Capital projects, as established by the Board of Directors, are underwritten through gifts and not tuition, and are intended to be made in addition to any regular giving to the school’s annual fund. We hope that all members of our community will consider supporting both efforts to the best of their ability.

Can we make a gift to a specific purpose? 

Certainly. Although unrestricted gifts are best, if there is a specific program area that you would like to support, please let us know.

How much should we give? 

Only you can decide. We hope that every member of our community will participate to the extent they are able. The only gift too small is no gift at all!

How much have others given? 

Nearly everything we have at The Heights is the result of a previous gift from a parent, alumnus, or friend of the school. As these gifts have provided for our current students and community, we must also provide for future generations.

How can I get more information? 

Please contact James Kolakowski, Director of Annual Giving, with questions about the Crescite Fund or other ways you would like to support The Heights.