Annual Fund FAQ

The Annual Fund is Science & Arts Academy’s yearly giving campaign that bridges the gap between what tuition covers and the full cost of an SAA education. The fund supports the general operating budget, plus additional programs and activities that directly benefit the students. 

Tuition covers only about 80% percent of the cost to educate one SAA student, leaving about $3,500 per student that we must cover. As an independent school, we are a not-for-profit institution, operating without the local or federal funds that public institutions receive.  Independent schools must fundraise annually to meet their operating budgets. 

Day-to-day operation of our school requires more than 6 million dollars annually, therefore we count on both tuition income and our community’s support of the Annual Fund.
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Additionally, while tuition payments are not tax deductible, donations to the Annual Fund are 100% tax deductible.

Annual Fund dollars are used exclusively to support SAA’s operating budget. Each gift to the Annual Fund directly supports all facets of the student experience. The Annual Fund allows us to make the day-to-day life of our students exceptional. From field trips to science lab equipment, new textbooks, art supplies, books for the library or student computers, we strive to invest in student learning.

Thanks to the Annual Fund, we can provide all the necessities that make SAA a home away from home like upgraded desks to hand-washing stations, snow removal on our campus, new basketballs and footballs for gym, and so much more. 

Yes! Each gift makes a significant difference to our community. Your gift helps to provide an atmosphere of educational excellence to every Science & Arts Academy student. ​ Participation in theAnnual Fund builds a stronger, more unified community and represents an investment in our future. 
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High Annual Fund participation levels can help the school raise crucial dollars from outside foundations and institutions. Greater participation helps the school when applying for grants and helps in securing gifts from large corporations because these institutions support schools who are first supported by their loyal community.

Give an amount that makes you feel comfortable as gifts of all sizes make a difference. We encourage you to join the giving level that is meaningful to you. 
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If you would like examples of specific needs that SAA has and gifts that could help us to realize those needs, please contact the Advancement Office. 

Leadership Circle - 1992 Society

​Founder           $20,000 and up    
Visionary         $10,000 - $19,999  
Pioneer            $5,000 - $9,999
Champion       $2,500 - $4,999
Leader              $1,500 - $2,499
Scholar ​            $1,000 - $1,499

Circle of Friends

​Eagle                        $500 - $999
Bald Cypress        $250 - $499
Blue & White          up to $249

Yes! Some corporations have contributed to the Annual Fund by offering matching gifts to their employees' contributions. 

Your gift can be doubled or even tripled thanks to your employer. You receive the credit for the matching gift. Example) If you donate $500 and your employer matches it dollar for dollar, $500, you are now a $1,000 donor. 
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You can check with your employer and see if you can contribute through a matching gift program through work. 

Yes! SAA can receive funds from your DAF. We are happy to provide you with any forms you may need. 

Yes, SAA accepts gifts of stock and securities. Please contact the Advancement Office to coordinate this transaction. 

Feel free to email giving@scienceandartsacademy.org with any questions about the Annual Fund.