The Fundraising Rationale

Jen Anthony Matthews ‘01

The business model of an independent school is unique. Kent School is an independently organized non-profit school, overseen by the Board of Trustees. Kent School is not dependent on government or church funds - it is funded primarily through tuition and charitable donations. Tuition revenue only covers about 90% of the true cost of a Kent School education. The rest is covered by the Osprey Fund, donor-restricted gifts, and the Kent School Endowment.

The Osprey Fund, Kent School’s annual fundraising campaign, is our top fundraising priority. The Osprey Fund bridges the tuition gap by supporting each student, teacher, and program. Unrestricted Osprey Fund donations underwrite the operating expenses of the School. Kent School relies on generous financial support from parents, alumni, past parents, and friends to support its curriculum and facilities.

Sometimes, Kent School receives donations restricted for a specific purpose. A gift is classified as restricted when a donor is asked to give to a capital campaign, or a scholarship fund, or if the donor wishes the donation to be used for only one purpose.

The Kent School Endowment helps the School with long range planning and expenditures. Growth in the endowment for faculty compensation and professional development assists us in attracting and retaining highly qualified teachers who will help us strengthen our program with competitive total compensation packages. Growth in student financial assistance funds will allow us to draw and keep a more diverse student body. Financial sustainability through endowment growth will also help Kent School be nimble if unforeseen circumstances arise. Kent School takes an endowment draw of 4-5% annually, so the endowment can continue to grow over time.

The Luminary Society is Kent School’s Planned Giving program. Making a planned gift is a wonderful way to show your support and appreciation for Kent School and its mission while accommodating your own personal, financial, estate-planning, and philanthropic goals. Planned gifts may be made through your retirement plan or a bequest. Kent School is in the process of developing the ability to offer Charitable Gift Annuities and Charitable Trusts. Please contact the Development Office if you are interested in learning more. Your advance planning for this additional gift will mean that Kent School can continue to shape the lives of students for generations to come!

Large or small, each and every gift to Kent School makes a major difference: it signifies your confidence in us as a school worthy of your support. Your confidence is well placed and we are grateful for your support.