Q: What is The Duchesne Fund?
A: The Duchesne Fund, is the annual fund for Duchesne Academy and is the "gift every year" that we count on from our extended family—current parents, alumnae, trustees, parents of alumnae, grandparents and friends—in support of Duchesne’s day-to-day operations. We need giving to increase from year-to-year to support the School’s expanding programs in Academics, Technology, Athletics and Fine Arts, to keep pace with inflation and to be able to retain and recruit the best available faculty.
Q: Why does Duchesne ask us for contributions in addition to what we already send to the School in tuition and fees?
A: The cost of an independent school education is such that tuition and fees do not cover the total cost of educating each student. As is the case with other independent schools, our advancement efforts are designed to solicit charitable gifts in order to bridge the gap between school income and the actual cost of operating the school. The gap between tuition and the cost of a Duchesne education for one year is approximately $3,200 per student.
Q: Why doesn’t Duchesne simply raise tuition to pay for all operating needs?
A: Although Duchesne must raise tuition annually to guarantee growth in faculty salaries and school programs, the School could not charge the full cost without seriously limiting the number of qualified students who could afford to attend. Also, a gift to the Annual Fund is tax-deductible as allowed by law. Tuition is not.
Q: What is the difference between The Duchesne Fund and Extravaganza, Duchesne’s dinner and auction?
A: Extravaganza is Duchesne’s primary event fundraiser. By purchasing a table, ticket or auction item, you are contributing to key initiatives in Athletics, Fine Arts and Technology. The Duchesne Fund is designed to offset annual operating expenses. If the gift is pledged, it is generally payable by the end of the academic year.
Q: Would we be expected to give to The Duchesne Fund and Extravaganza?
A: We would hope that all parents and friends of Duchesne would consider supporting both efforts to the best of their ability as both help us close the gap between the real cost of educating our students and the tuition charged.
Q: I give a great deal of my time to the School. Am I really expected to give money too?
A: Yes. We need and value every family’s support in every way. If you are fortunate enough to have both time and money, please share them generously. If you have little time or little money, please do whatever you can.
Q: How much should I give?
A: All we ask is that you be as generous as you can. Remember that tuition alone does not cover the cost of a Duchesne education. The shortfall per student is approximately $3,200. Obviously not everyone can afford to give at this level. In the past, gifts have ranged from $10 to $20,000.
