Questions & Answers

Why doesn't Pen Ryn charge enough to cover operating costs?

If tuition was increased to cover the actual cost of all its programs, many families could not afford to send their children to independent schools. Tuition increases at all independent schools would be dramatic. This could mean a drop in enrollment, resulting in a cut back of programs and steeper tuition increases in order to fund operations, all of which affect your child's education. Additionally, charitable gifts would be even more difficult to obtain given the increased cost of sending a child to school. This would preclude our ability to finance many of the important academic programs and improvements made possible by charitable support.
 

What is Annual Giving?

The Pen Ryn Annual Giving Fund is a charitable contribution made by trustees, faculty, staff, administration, parents, alumni, parents of alumni, grandparents, vendors, and friends of Pen Ryn in order to subsidize tuition income each year. It is the amount projected by the Board of Trustees in the current operating budget which permits the school to enhance student programs. One hundred percent of the money raised for Annual Giving goes directly to the operating budget. The Annual Giving drive begins July 1st of each year with letters and continues with brochures and reminder letters to all the Pen Ryn constituents and concludes June 30th of each year. Donations may be made anytime during the current school year.
 

Is giving to Annual Giving unique to The Pen Ryn School?

No. Independent schools have always had to rely on the generosity and loyalty of their constituencies for their advancement. Very few, if any, private, independent schools, colleges, or universities meet their full operational costs with tuition alone.
 

Can we restrict our gifts to a specific purpose?

Certainly. Although Annual Giving requests unrestricted funds which may be used where ever necessary, if there is a project that you would like to fund, please let the Development Office know. We also offer the following gift designations: Pen Ryn School's Most Appropriate Need, Scholarship Fund, Technology, Faculty Development, and Educational Program. Just check off where you would like your gift directed on the giving envelope.
 

My company offers a Matching Gift Program. Would Pen Ryn be interested in this program?

Absolutely! More than 1,600 American companies match their staff's contributions. Matching gifts allow you to double or even triple your gift to Pen Ryn. After confirming that your employer is indeed a matching gift corporation, get a matching gift form (usually from the human resources department), fill it out, and send it to the Development Office with your gift. The development office then submits the form to the company's matching gift department, which sends the check directly to the school.
 

How much should we give?

Only you can decide. We ask that you remember that your contributions, along with those of all our donors, will directly enhance our children's education. We hope that every member of our school community will participate.
 

Can I pay a pledge in installments?

Yes. Indicate on your return giving envelope your pledge total and a payment schedule that meets your specific needs. You will have until June 30th of the current school year to complete your pledge. Any monies received after that time will be credited to the following year's Annual Giving Fund Drive.
 

Is our gift tax-deductible?

Yes! All contributions to the school are fully tax-deductible according to IRS regulations. We are a not-for-profit 501(c)3 corporation.
 

How can I get more information about giving?

If you have additional questions about the Annual Giving Program or other types of giving to the school, please feel free to contact the office at 215-547-1800 or click here to send an email.