Growing Stronger Together
There are many aspects to love about a Montessori education: the emphasis on independence, learning through experiencing the beautifully designed materials with the support of the classroom guides, practical life skills, and so much more; but one of the most important elements for us is the nurturing of our children’s natural love and desire for learning.
Investing in a Montessori education is investing in the future of our children; so that they may always have a love for learning and be self-directed in pursuing their passions. Hollis Montessori invests in children, through the loving attention from the classroom guides, the parent education sessions, and the community the school offers.
Your support allows HMS to flourish. Each donation allows us to strengthen and grow this community that we so greatly value.
Every single gift to the HMS Annual Fund is needed and appreciated. We’ve seen what a difference your contributions can make. You may have questions about the Annual Fund, and below are answers to some of the most frequently asked. Please take the time to read through these. If you have further questions, please let us know and we will provide you with any additional information you need to make a more educated donation.
There are several ways to donate:
Donate to the Annual Fund online now!
One-time cash or check mailed or delivered to the school
Stock donation (please contact us for further details)
Thank you,
Megan Bettencourt, parent of Nora (CH1) and Finn (LE1)
Valerie Solon, parent of Alex (CH1) and Xavier (CH2)
Annual Fund Committee Co-chairs
Questions and Answers
Why do we have an Annual Fund?
A full tuition at Hollis Montessori only covers about 85% of the cost of educating each student. Funds received from Annual Giving, through both the Annual Fund and the Spring Gala & Auction, are the school’s most important source of revenue other than student tuition. It is a vital part of the operating budget, contributing to classroom materials, supplies, salaries, faculty professional development, and maintenance of our beautiful campus. Annual Fund gifts enable us to attract and retain the best teachers, provide quality materials, and provide our students with a wide variety of diverse experiences. In brief, these funds are used to run the school.
Why not just raise tuition?
If Hollis Montessori relied solely on tuition income, we would price ourselves beyond the means of many families. In addition, gifts to the Annual Fund are tax-deductible, while tuition is not. Unrestricted annual monetary gifts enable Hollis Montessori to maintain high quality programs and facilities, attract and retain top-notch teachers, and help keep tuition affordable. Through annual giving, every student is subsidized through the generosity of our larger community.
IS MY GIFT TAX DEDUCTIBLE?
Yes. Hollis Montessori School is a non-profit organization. All gifts made to the school are tax-deductible. The Hollis Montessori Tax ID Number is 26-3041656.
Are Annual Funds common?
Yes. Annual Funds are common practice among independent schools to compensate for expenses not covered by tuition. 90% of independent schools operate on a tuition gap basis where the tuition is 10-25% less than total expenses. These schools depend entirely upon their annual funds to cover the gap for budgeted expenses.
Why do we request all members of our community to make a donation?
Outside funding sources and individuals are much more willing to consider supporting Hollis Montessori if it is demonstrated that those who know the school best have generously given to support it. We always strive for 100% participation by the Board of Directors, faculty, and staff, and we ask for 100% parent participation as well. Hollis Montessori School community participation is crucial as we seek funds from outside sources, such as grants, foundations, matching programs, gifts from trusts, or individuals.
HOW MUCH SHOULD I GIVE?
Gifts of every size are gratefully appreciated. Only you can determine the amount that is right for you and participation is more important than the amount. We ask that you please give as generously as you can. An investment in Hollis Montessori School is one that will pay life-time dividends for your children, your community and for future generations. Every gift matters.
How can I contribute?
There are many ways to support Hollis Montessori. You can donate by cash, check, credit card, or online through our website. You may also donate stocks or consider making a gift in someone else’s honor or in memory of a loved one. Many donors take advantage of their employers' matching gift program, which may double their gift to the school.
Checks can be mailed to:
Hollis Montessori School
9 S Merrimack Rd.
Hollis, NH 03049
How can I learn more?
If you have any questions, please ask! In addition, we hold our “State of the School” meeting early in the new year to present information concerning the past, present, and future growth of Hollis Montessori School.