What is the Annual Fund?

The Annual Fund is a request for financial contributions in support of the operating budget of the school.  The cost of providing Hyla’s program is greater than the money the school receives through tuition.  The Hyla Annual Fund helps bridge this gap between tuition and the actual cost of educating each child.

Why can’t tuition cover the school’s expenses?
It could, if we raised it high enough.  Keeping tuition as affordable as possible is important to Hyla Middle School.  Tax deductible donations like the annual fund are an effective way to cover costs.  Tuition is not tax deductible.  Annual Fund contributions are tax deductible.

What is the goal for the Annual Fund?  What are we expected to give?
Our goal is 100% participation from our current families, board and staff members from whom we ask for a donation of personal significance.  All gifts, large and small, are appreciated and help meet our goals.  Having 100% of the school community support the Hyla Annual Fund makes it easier to solicit gifts to the school from outside donors and foundations.  Every gift is important and definitely makes a difference.

Can I pledge now and give later?
We would like to know of your pledge by December 31st.  Many donors choose to give before the end of December since donations are tax-deductible.  We do ask that you pay your pledge in full by June 30th, as it is the end of our fiscal year.

Is giving to the Annual Fund unique to our school?
No.  Independent schools have long assured their continued academic quality, affordability and financial health through annual giving.  Very few schools, if any, meet all their operating expenses through tuition.  Hyla aims to keep tuition costs as low as possible so that it is not cost prohibitive.  Hyla is also a nonprofit organization and as such will always need to seek support from its broader community.

I’ve heard about matching funds – how does that work?
Many employers will honor their employees’ personal donations with a matching gift.  Please check with your employer’s Human Resources department to see if they offer a matching gift program.  If so, be sure to forward your employer’s matching gift form with your donation.

Can I donate stock?
Every year, many people take advantage of the simplicity and income tax advantages of donating shares of stock as a charitable gift. If this is a type of donation you would like to make, please call Jana Morris, Hyla’s Business Manager, at (206)842-5988.

As a current family, are we expected to give to the Annual Fund if we plan to participate in the auction?
Yes.  We absolutely appreciate and depend on contributions of time and goods to make the auction a success.  Our goal for the Annual Fund, however, is a donation from every family, board and staff member at the school.

Who will know the amount of my gift?
We are sensitive to your privacy.  All donors are acknowledged, by name only, in our Annual Report unless they ask to remain anonymous.  If you wish to remain anonymous, please check the appropriate box on the pledge card.