Q&A
Why do we have the Andrews Osborne Academy Annual Fund?
Why support the Andrews Osborne Academy Annual Fund?
What does the Andrews Osborne Academy Annual Fund support?
Who supports the Annual Fund?
Is the Annual Fund Campaign unique to Andrews Osborne Academy?
Why isn't tuition enough to cover the full cost of an Andrews Osborne Academy education?
Why should I consider making a gift to the Annual Fund Campaign?
How does my gift make a difference?
Can I fund a special project?
How do I make my gift?
Who can I contact if I have additional questions?
Why do we have the Andrews Osborne Academy Annual Fund?
As an independent school, 80% of Andrews Osborne Academy's operating budget is funded by tuition. The remaining 20% is funded by voluntary giving to the Andrews Osborne Academy Annual Fund, interest income from endowments and gifts to Financial Aid. As at most independent schools, the Annual Fund is the largest and most important fund-raiser of the school year.
Why support the Andrews Osborne Academy Annual Fund?
Gifts to the Andrews Osborne Academy Annual Fund are vital to the school community. Every year the school depends on resources beyond tuition to operate. All Annual Fund gifts are tax deductible.
What does the Andrews Osborne Academy Annual Fund support?
Annual Fund gifts support a variety of programs, including academics, faculty development, the arts, athletics, college counseling, technology and the libraries. They allow AOA to:
- Recruit outstanding faculty and provide them with unique professional development opportunities.
- Offer a comprehensive curriculum that is both rigorous and wide-ranging.
- Provide need-based financial assistance for students.
- Maintain our campus and facilities to the highest standards.
Parents and grandparents of current and former students, alumni, friends, faculty, staff and the Board of Trustees all contribute to the Andrews Osborne Academy Annual Fund. The Board of Trustees leads off the fund drive initiative each year and had a remarkable rate of participation in 2008-09. Foundations and corporations also support the AOA Annual Fund.
Is the Annual Fund Campaign unique to Andrews Osborne Academy?
The Annual Fund is not unique to AOA. All independent schools rely on the generosity and loyalty of their community. Tuition and fees alone only covers 80% of the full cost of an AOA education. Annual giving is an ongoing initiative in a school community and a priority that continues to provide students in independent schools unique educational opportunities.
Why isn't tuition enough to cover the full cost of an Andrews Osborne Academy education?
Andrews Osborne Academy is committed to building a dynamic learning environment staffed by exceptional, dedicated and experienced teachers. We offer this at a cost subsidized through fundraising efforts, allowing for the richness in our diverse community. If tuition were increased to cover actual education expenses, some families may not be able to afford to send their children to Andrews Osborne Academy.
Why should I consider making a gift to the Annual Fund Campaign?
We believe Andrews Osborne Academy is an exceptional educational institution. This is an exciting time for our community as we are now in our third year of the merger. During the past year alone, enrollment has increased 19%, therefore the cost to educate an increased enrollment also increases due to additional staffing as well as materials and supplies. Your gift to the Annual Fund is tax deductible.
How does my gift make a difference?
Annual Fund gifts support a variety of programs and projects. Last year's gifts made many of the following projects and programs possible:
- Tournament Tennis Courts
- Lee Building Patio/Garden and furnishings
- Biodiesel Science Program
- Upgraded Server and Computer Technology
- 125 Academic and Need-Based Scholarships were awarded, benefitting 32% of our population
Can I fund a special project?
Donors may also choose to support a specific fund project listed below:
Dorm Refurbishment Fund: This fund will be used to replace windows, carpeting, roofing, and upgrade applicances and furnishings.
Science Laboratory Renovation Fund: Upgrades in technology and equipment, as well as programmatic enhancements will be made through donated funds.
Auditorium Renovation Fund: This fund will be utilized to replace carpeting, furnishings and equipment needed to enhance the environment and uses of our circa 1950's auditorium.
Scholarship Funds: Various scholarship funds have been established. Should you wish to donate to a scholarship fund, contact the AOA Development Office (440-942-3600 ext. 246) to identify the appropriate fund account.
How do I make my gift?
Please access the "How to Give" section under "Giving to AOA" for information to assist you in making your gift. One option is to donate online. Our mailing address is 38588 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, OH 44094.
Who can I contact if I have additional questions?
Please contact our Development Office at 440-942-3600, ext. 246.