As an independent, private school, The Montessori Academy at Edison Lakes does not receive federal or state funding. TMA’s operating budget relies on three main sources of revenue: tuition and fees, its annual Windfall Auction and Annual Giving.

Contributions raised through the Annual Giving allow the school to maintain its superior education by providing strong academic programs, a low student-faculty ratio, technological programs and faculty enrichment. It helps bridge the gap between tuition and the school’s operating expenses.

TMA’s Annual Giving campaign runs from the start of school until June 30th. The funds raised through the campaign amount to over $55,000 every year. Our goal is 100% parent participation this year.  Though we ask that all pledges be designated by December 31st, 2009 the campaign runs through June, 2010 (when all pledges must be paid).

While tuition costs are indeed a significant investment, tuition alone does not cover the day-to-day costs of educating your child at TMA. In fact, tuition only covers approximately 90% of the expenses. The remaining 10% is raised through fundraising efforts, including the Annual Giving Campaign. If the academy relied solely on tuition income, it would price itself well beyond the means of most families. Annual Giving is a tax-deductible way to ensure Montessori educational excellence.

Parents play an active role in the Annual Giving Campaign—the Parents of TMA are the single largest group of donors to the Campaign. The Academies dynamic community includes trustees, grandparents, alumni, parents of alumni, faculty, staff and corporations and foundations, all of whom come together to support Annual Giving and ensure the financial health of the school.

Those who make Annual Giving gifts are recognized at the follow levels:
Guardian Level: $2,500 +
Patron Level: $1,000 - $2,499
Supporter Level: $500 - $999
Friend Level: up to $499

What is a Golden Apple Level donor?
Golden Apple donors are the financial leaders in our TMA community. Each of these families has pledged a donation of $1000 or more (between October 1st and December 30th). As recognition and thanks, the Golden Apple donors are invited to an adult only Golden Apple Party held in January or February.

What is the Pink Tower Club?  The Pink Tower Club recognizes our youngest donors.  Each of these children have made a personal gift to the Annual Giving campaign. This is a great way to teach the importance of giving back to your community.

Participation is critical to the success of Annual Giving. Every gift of every size makes a difference. Only you can determine the amount that’s appropriate for your situation. Please consider making The Montessori Academy at Edison Lakes one of your top philanthropic choices. An investment in TMA is one of the best investments you can make—it’s an investment in our children and the Academies future.

A generous donor has established a matching donation based on participation. If 100% of our families give to the campaign TMA will receive 100% of the gift. The only gift that is too small is no gift at all. We realize and appreciate that families are on budgets.  We ask only that every family participates in Annual Giving at a level that is comfortable and realistic.  Participation, no matter what the amount, is most important to the success of the school.

The Board of Trustees will be calling parents during the month of October. They will be explaining the importance of Annual Giving and answering any question you may have. If you so choose, board members will be prepared to take you’re your pledges or donations over the phone.

Cash, credit card and gifts of securities are the main ways donors choose. Many contributors take advantage of their companies matching gift program, doubling or tripling their gifts to TMA. Contact Suzette Hudak at (574) 256-5313 or to email a request for more information. Or click on the DONATE button below to contribute using PayPal.