Capital Campaign F.A.Q.

How does Metro Christian Academy make a difference in the lives of students?

At Metro Christian Academy we offer uncompromising academics and state award-winning programs and activities within a Christian culture that is built upon faith, prayer, character, and moral responsibilities. Metro students – through challenging academics, leadership training and a wide variety of extracurricular programs – are engaged in their learning process and are encouraged to find their own unique talents, explore new ideas, seek answers, and lead with integrity. In addition, Metro has a very unique niche in Tulsa, serving both college bound students and those diagnosed with learning disabilities.

Why does the school keep asking for money? Can’t we use tuition and fees to help pay for these capital improvements?

As you are aware, Metro is an inter-denominational Christian School with no church affiliation. We receive no funding from churches or state or local governments. The cost of an independent school education is such that tuition and fees do not even cover the total cost of educating each student. Our annual fundraising efforts such as the fall campaign and the dinner auction help make up this difference. Without them, we could not balance the budget. As funding is needed to upgrade the school or add to the endowment, our only recourse is to conduct a capital campaign, appealing to the generosity of our constituents. We ask that you prayerfully consider our request

What is the present enrollment and are there plans to increase the student body?

Metro currently has approximately 1,000 students enrolled in P3 through 12th grade. There are no plans to increase the student population in high school. However, after careful study, we have determined that if additional space is available, we would consider adding one section to K-5th grades.

Why do we have a Celebration Goal and a Challenge Goal?

The Celebration Goal is the amount the Steier Group told us we could raise during the feasibility study. Reaching our $4.1 million Celebration Goal will allow us to complete the projects identified by our families, faculty and administration as the highest priority. Reaching this goal also means that we have raised more than $1 million more than we have raised in the past. We certainly want to celebrate that. The campaign executive committee set the Challenge Goal of $6.75 million because the committee felt that Metro had the potential to raise more than the Steier Group estimated. If we achieve our challenge goal, we will be able complete the projects listed under our Celebration Goal, plus build a new learning center and add $500,000 to the endowment.

When will construction begin?

While we can’t say with 100% certainty until the campaign is complete, it is our intent to fund projects as shown on the campaign thermometer (see case statement). We will begin construction of a project only when we have the money in the bank. The roof replacement is our #1 priority for funding. We anticipate beginning this project in the summer of 2008. Construction will begin on other projects as the money is collected.

Are gifts tax deductible?

Yes! Metro Christian Academy is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Therefore, all gifts to the campaign are deductible within state and federal laws.

Why emphasize pledges?

Pledges allow donors to consider giving more than is possible through “one-time” gifts. By establishing a three to five year pledge period, donors will be able to maximize their generosity to the campaign. This is important in a campaign of this magnitude

Is my pledge legally binding? Will it be confidential?

No, a pledge is a gift, one you consider to be meaningful to you. All we ask is that you do your best and advise us of any change that will impact your pledge. All pledges will be kept as confidential as possible. Only the people responsible for maintaining the records will have access to your pledge.

Who will be asked to contribute to the campaign?

We will be asking alumni, current and past parents, grandparents, faculty and staff, corporations, foundations, and other interested members of the Metro community to consider five-year pledges.

Can we make a gift to the campaign other than cash?

Yes. Metro Christian Academy accepts gifts of stocks, bonds, insurance policies, real estate, personal property or any item that can be converted to cash for the campaign. Gifts of real estate and personal property must meet the qualifications set forth in the Metro Gift Acceptance Guidelines. If you have questions in regard to the transfer of property please contact Teresa O’Donnell, Director of Development.

How much should I give?

Only you can answer that question. We ask that you consider your pledge according to your feelings about Metro and your personal financial resources.

Who should I contact to learn more about the campaign?