Why is it important to give?

Crane’s operations budget exceeds the amount the school charges in tuition. That difference must be made up through outside sources. Primarily, this funding comes from gifts to the Annual Fund, funds raised by the Spring Benefit, and the annual draw on interest generated by the Endowment. 

In short, giving to Crane maintains the incredible educational experience the school offers our children.

We ask that all families participate in giving to Crane, at whatever level they feel comfortable. High participation percentages among trustees, parents, alumni, faculty and staff can also help Crane procure grants from outside sources.

What is the difference between the Annual Fund, Capital Gifts, and the Endowment?

The Annual Fund is the foundation of giving at Crane. It is a yearly appeal for donations to support current year operations. Capital funds are used to support specific expenses, such as buildings. Endowment funds are permanently restricted; the principal is invested and remains untouched, generating interest income which is used to support the school.

If tuition doesn’t cover operating expenses, why not just raise tuition?

All non-profit independent schools have a “gap” between tuition income and the actual operating costs of the school, and rely on donations to make up the difference.
Raising tuition to cover annual operating expenses would require a dramatic increase in tuition dollars per student, limiting the number of applicants to Crane. The lower tuition rate allows a greater number of qualified students to attend the school.  Also, support of the Annual Fund, as opposed to tuition dollars paid, offers a tax advantage since all donations are tax-deductible.

I contributed to last year’s Annual Fund, where was that money spent?

Your generous contribution was used to assure the quality and consistency that are the hallmarks of a Crane education.  Some of the many programs and activities which benefit from Annual Giving are the Upper School Musical, Lower School Spring Study Week, and interscholastic sports, as well as faculty salaries and benefits, and the care and maintenance of Crane’s eleven-acre campus.

Are contributions tax-deductable?

Yes, contributions to Crane are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law in the calendar year in which they are made.  Crane is a 501(c)(3)non-profit institution.

Can I make a matching gift?

Many employers are willing to match your gift to non-profit organizations. Contact the human resources division at your workplace for the required form, send it along with your gift, and increase your contribution to Crane.

I really want to help, but now isn’t a good time. May I make a gift in the spring?

Yes! You can make a pledge to the Annual Fund during the fall, and the Development Office will send you payment reminders. Pledges to the Annual Fund are due before the end of the school year in which the pledge was made.

You can also make a pledge to a Capital or Endowment Campaign during the campaign, and schedule payments over multiple years.

What is planned giving?

Broadly stated, planned giving means including Crane in your will or trust so that the school will receive your contribution after you pass away. As the name suggests, planned giving involves forethought and strategy before making a gift. Some examples of planned giving include bequests, trusts, gift annuities, life insurance, and zero coupon bonds. Talk to you financial advisor or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

I’m ready to make a gift; what is the first step?

Online Giving: Make your gift now by clicking on "Make a Gift".

Cash: Write a check payable to Crane Country Day School and indicate to which fund you are making the contribution.

Credit Card: Contact the Development Office with your Visa, MasterCard, or American Express information.

Gifts of Stock or Securities: Contact the Development Office regarding your intention to give stock. Transfers of stock can be made to Crane’s Charles Schwab receiving account, number 0164 2160-9866.

Pledge: Contact the Development Office to make a pledge to Crane School.