giving faqs

What makes Sea Crest an “independent” school?

Sea Crest is a non-profit organization that operates without financial support from local or federal taxes. The School relies on tuition fees, annual giving, and auxiliary income (income from facility rentals, etc.) to operate.

Why should I make a gift to Sea Crest?

Excellence at Sea Crest is linked directly to the generosity of our extended community. Support from parents, alumni, grandparents and friends allow Sea Crest to educate our children with quality, care and the resources necessary to better their education.

Tuition is expensive. Why must Sea Crest ask for additional money?

Tuition only covers approximately 85% of the full cost of educating a Sea Crest student each year. We depend upon charitable contributions to supplement tuition income and cover operating expenses including faculty and staff salaries and benefits, professional development, building maintenance, and tuition assistance. Without this additional support, tuition would be higher. In addition, unlike tuition payments, contributions are tax-deductible.

What is the Williamson Annual Giving Fund?

The Williamson Annual Giving Fund is an indispensable source of unrestricted income and an important part of the annual operating budget. Gifts to the Fund help to close the gap between the income received from tuition and the total cost of a Sea Crest education. Each year, the Williamson Annual Giving Fund must increase in order to keep pace with inflation and the increased budgetary needs of the school.

How much should we give to the Williamson Annual Giving Fund?

Sea Crest needs and appreciates gifts of every size. Last year, we received gifts of $10 on up. We encourage families to give at a level that is proportionate to their giving ability; we hope that parents and guardians will make Sea Crest their highest philanthropic priority. Participation among current families has grown from 45% in 2005–2006 to 85% in 2007–2008. We strive for 100% participation each year.

Who supports the Annual Fund?

Parents, alumni, trustees, faculty, and members of the coastside community all give to the Annual Fund. The success of the Annual Fund depends on the participation of the entire Sea Crest community.

Are those who volunteer their time to Sea Crest also expected to support the Annual Fund?

Yes, we need both volunteers and financial contributions to survive! Volunteerism is a vital part of our community and Sea Crest parents give extraordinary gifts of time, but service is not a substitute for contributing to the Annual Fund.

Does Sea Crest have any restricted funds?

While unrestricted giving provides flexible funds that can be used where most needed, some donors may wish to direct the use of their gift or part of their gift. Please contact the development office for more information.

Does Sea Crest hold additional fundraising events?

The Parent Association leads a number of events throughout the year, including an annual Auction and the Ginger Girvin Scholarship Run. Family fundraising activities help strengthen our community and provide additional support for Sea Crest. Participating in these activities is a great way to get involved in our community and meet other Sea Crest families.

Is my gift tax deductible?

Sea Crest is a 501(c)(3) organization as determined by the IRS. All gifts of cash qualify for charitable deduction in the year of payment as prescribed by law. If you make a gift of appreciated securities, you will be entitled to a charitable deduction on the fair market value of the securities on the date of the gift, and you will not incur any capital gains tax on the appreciation.