FAQs

What is the annual fund?

The annual fund is now known as The Langley Fund. It’s a small change, but one that better reflects the purpose of the fund – to provide support for the people and programs that make Langley so special (talented teachers, small classes, outstanding curriculum, and exceptional offerings in areas from arts to athletics).

Why doesn’t the school charge enough to cover operating costs?

If tuition was increased to cover the actual cost of all programs, many could not afford to send their children to our school.

Is giving to the annual fund unique to Langley?

No. Independent schools have long relied upon the generosity and loyalty of their constituencies. Very few, if any, independent schools meet full operational costs with tuition alone.

What is the difference between annual giving and a capital campaign?

Capital campaigns are conducted periodically to provide significant funds for additions to endowment, construction, renovation, or extensive equipment purchases. Contributions are generally pledged over three to five years. Annual giving is designed to offset annual operating expenses; if the gift is pledged, it is generally payable by the end of the academic year.

Would I be expected to give to both?

We hope that alumni, parents, and other friends of the school would consider supporting both efforts to the best of their ability.

Can I make a gift for a specific purpose or to support the endowment?

Certainly. If there is a specific project you would like to fund, please let us know. Capital campaigns generally provide named gift opportunities. The endowment fund secures the school’s long-term future and generates an important and significant part of the annual operating revenue. The principal of an endowment gift is preserved and only a portion of the interest and earnings are used. Endowment gifts are professionally invested and managed to provide income for the operating budget, financial aid, and faculty support in perpetuity. Gifts to the endowment may be of any size and may designated for a particular purpose. Click here to learn more about endowment gifts.

May I make a deferred or planned gift?

Yes! Your support makes the difference in securing the future of The Langley School. Opportunities for planned giving include bequests, gifts of retirement assets or life insurance, and charitable gift annuities, remainder trusts, and lead trusts. Click here for more information about planned giving.

What is the annual auction and will I be asked to participate?

The annual auction is a great community-building activity and is one of the school’s primary fundraising initiatives. All funds raised during the auction help to offset current year operating expenses such as faculty and staff salaries, student financial aid, and academic and extracurricular programs. We hope that you will choose to participate in and support the auction by attending the event, placing an advertisement in the auction catalog, donating an item for silent or live auction, or serving as a volunteer.

Is there any chance that my gift could be made anonymously?

Yes. When you send in your contribution, be sure to let us know that you would like to be anonymous and we will be happy to honor your request.

Can I make a gift in memory of someone or to honor a special individual, for instance a former teacher?

Certainly. We will be happy to discuss either of these options with you. The family will be notified of the gift, if appropriate.

My company offers a matching gifts program. Does Langley participate in corporate matching gift programs?

Absolutely. Matching gifts are an easy way to double or, in some cases, triple your gift to the school. Please let us know when you contribute that your company offers matching gifts. Click here to use our employer matching gift search feature.

Is my gift tax deductible?

All contributions are fully tax deductible according to IRS guidelines. Please check with your tax advisor for details regarding your individual circumstances.

May I volunteer my time?

Yes. Volunteers are crucial to our success. Please contact the Advancement Office if you would like to volunteer or discuss creative ways in which you may become involved.

We celebrate and sincerely appreciate the generosity of those who support The Langley School. As you consider a gift in support of the school and its initiatives, please keep in mind that all gifts – regardless of size – make a difference. Whether $15 or $15,000, your gift will be put to immediate use. It is the collective effort that supports and sustains our strong tradition of excellence.

For additional information, please contact the Advancement Office at (703) 356-1920.