FAQs

By pairing tuition with philanthropy, we are able to keep VMS more affordable for a wider range of families. It also allows families to support the school in a tax-deductible way—charitable donations to the VMS Fund are tax-deductible, whereas tuition payments are not.

Every gift matters. Contributions to the VMS Fund range from $5 to $25,000+, and we are grateful for gifts of all sizes. What’s most important is that each family participates in a way that is meaningful for them. Participation at any level strengthens our community and demonstrates a shared commitment to the school.

High participation sends a strong message of confidence in our mission and is one of the key indicators of the school’s overall health. It also plays a role in securing grants and additional philanthropic support. Together, VMS Fund gifts make up more than 3% of our operating budget and support the day-to-day excellence of a VMS education.

No, one gift per family counts toward participation for each grade in which you have a child enrolled. A single gift supports the experience of all your children and strengthens the school as a whole.

We ask every member of our community to participate in the VMS Fund every year because it provides more than 3% of our yearly operating budget. 

The endowment provides resources — in perpetuity — for the people and programs that make VMS unique. The funds are invested, and a board-determined percentage of the endowment income is spent each year.  If you would like to learn more about making an endowment gift, we would welcome a conversation with you.

We ask those supporting the endowment to continue giving to the VMS Fund, as well, due to its critical importance to the School. 

Yes. Donations from a DAF are welcome; however, they cannot be used to fulfill a pledge or to pay for anything that provides benefits in return, such as auction items or sponsorships.