Annual Fund
October 6 - October 27, 2025
Every Gift Makes a Difference!
Each year, Explorer West Middle School’s Annual Fund Campaign provides additional funding to our operational budget that enriches and enhances our program beyond what is possible by tuition dollars alone.
We encourage every member of our community (families, friends, board members, staff, and alumni) to generously support the Annual Fund.
Your donation is a tangible demonstration of support and trust in our mission, and makes a meaningful and lasting impact.
All Annual Fund donations are tax-deductible. Employer matches are welcomed and encouraged.
Annual Fund FAQs
Why do we need to have an Annual Fund – isn’t tuition enough?
Private, non-profit schools charge less in tuition than the full cost of running the school, with the anticipation that fundraising will bridge the gap. A key benefit of this funding model is increased accessibility and inclusion, as it enables more families to afford a private school education
What is the impact of my donation?
At Explorer West, tuition covers only about 79% of our costs. The actual cost of educating each Explorer West student is thousands of dollars more than the tuition charged. Our Annual Fund allows Explorer West to provide students with an outstanding education while at the same time keeping tuition considerably lower than other Seattle private schools.
Why is it important to donate NOW?
Our phenomenal teaching staff is the heart of Explorer West. Teachers’ engagement and expertise elevate every student’s Explorer West education. To attract and retain the best faculty, we depend on your support to keep salaries competitive.
What is the goal of the Annual Fund?
Our campaign has TWO key goals:
- Our financial goal of $165,000. This bridges our funding gap and ensures the health of our program.
- Our participation goal of 100% participation by our families, faculty, staff, and Board. Achieving this goal bolsters our application when we apply for additional philanthropic grants
EVERY contribution is meaningful and impactful, no matter the size. So please give what you can.