1. What is the Annual Fund and what does it support?

Annual Fund monies go directly into the operating budget to continue to provide academic and social-emotional support for every child. Curricular supplies for our program classrooms, sensory chairs and devices, physical education equipment, our Counselor who meets with every child every week and dedicated P.E., science, art, drama and music teachers are examples of the essential aspects of a Laurel education that the Annual Fund helps support.

2. Are contributions to the Annual Fund tax deductible? If so, how can I get evidence of my contribution for tax reporting purposes?

Yes, Annual Fund contributions are tax deductible! The Laurel School is a non-profit 501c-3, simply document your contribution to the Tax ID#, which is 94-1703911. Please make your check out to "The Laurel School" and write "Annual Fund" on the memo line. You will receive a thank-you letter as well as an acknowledgement of your donation for tax purposes.

3. Why is an Annual Fund necessary, why aren't these amounts simply included as part of the Laurel School annual budget and covered by our ongoing tuition payments?

Operationally, the cost of educating a student at Laurel is higher compared with other private schools due to the needed small class size and specialized teaching techniques required for our children with learning differences. Tuition revenues need to be supplemented by Annual Fund donations from current families and alumni, as well as by grants from foundations and corporations to provide the high quality education provided by The Laurel School.

4. This year it is particularly difficult for my family to contribute monetarily. Is there another way for us to participate?

We acknowledge that economic conditions have impacted many of us personally. We'd like to reiterate that no contribution is too small and encourage all families to participate at a level with which they are comfortable.

5. Is participation in the Annual Fund mandatory?

While participation in the Annual Fund is strictly voluntary, we are striving for 100% family participation and, as no contribution is too small, we encourage every family to join us.

6. Why is 100% family participation so important?

100% participation demonstrates our strength as a united community and is vital for increasing The Laurel School’s ability to obtain grants from corporations and foundations.

7. When are Annual Fund contributions due?

Annual Fund contributions are welcome at any time, but should be received by The Laurel School no later than December 31, 2011. If contributing by check, please make it out to "The Laurel School” and be sure to write "Annual Fund" on the check memo line. If you are unable to make a contribution in this timeframe, but would like to make a pledge now for a future payment, please contact September Jarrett, Chair of the Annual Fund, at septemberjarrett@comcast.net or (415) 336-8071.