FAQs

Q: What exactly is the Maranatha Fund?

A: The Maranatha Fund is the most important fund at Maranatha High School and is critical to Maranatha's fiscal health. Tax-deductible donations are used to close the gap between tuition income and the actual cost of educating students at Maranatha. The 2012-13 gap is approximately $2,400 per student. Maranatha Fund proceeds are used for need-based scholarships, innovative academic programs that enhance scholarly pursuits, faculty development that inspires creative instructional strategies, athletics which cultivate character in the caldron of competition, arts that encourage imaginative thinking, and spiritual life to deepen our roots in Christ. It is essential from a budgetary standpoint that the school reaches its Maranatha Fund goal each year. The 2012-2013 Maranatha Fund goal is $500,000 and 100% parent participation.

Q: What is the Parent Partnership Program?

A: The Parent Partnership Program facilitates the Maranatha Fund. This program gives our parents an opportunity to partner with Maranatha to help "close the gap" between what the school charges in tuition and the actual cost to operate the school. For the 2012-13 school year, the gap is $2,400 per student. All parents are asked to make a pledge to the Maranatha Fund (in the gap amount if possible), which is renewed each year the student attends MHS, to help the school close the gap. Without a successful Maranatha Fund, the school would need to charge tuition and fees in excess of what is currently charged.

Q: Why is parent participation in the Maranatha Fund so important?

A: Growth in Maranatha Fund parent participation has a significant impact on the school. As parent participation in the school’s Maranatha Fund increases, foundations and other donor and financial institutions take note.

Q: How often will I be contacted to donate to the school?

A: Each year, every Maranatha family is not only encouraged but expected to participate in the school's Maranatha Fund. The school encourages donors to make (or pledge) their charitable giving to Maranatha before the beginning of the school year. Parents who make a gift to the Maranatha Fund each school year will generally not be asked for additional gifts throughout the school year. Of course, donor initiated gifts are always welcomed and appreciated. All families will receive advancement mailings from time to time to update our community on the status of advancement efforts or new initiatives.

Q: May I target my gifts to a particular area of the school?

A: Absolutely! Gifts to the Maranatha Fund are not targeted for a particular purpose but instead go to support every area of the school and represents Maranatha’s greatest need. However, if they so choose, donors may elect to give a restricted gift to a specific area that is close to the donor’s heart.

Q: Can I match my gift?

A: Many donors are surprised to learn that their employers can match charitable gifts that they make to Maranatha. In doing so, not only do these donors receive credit for their actual gift, but they also receive associated credit for the corporate matching gift that they have helped Maranatha secure. Matching gifts are a wonderful way to support Maranatha at no expense to our families.

Q: Are there plans to expand the school’s facilities or renovate existing buildings?

A: The school’s strategic plan drives the school’s master planning process, and together both initiatives dictate future capital efforts needed for our students on this campus. There is no capital campaign at the school at this time.

Q: Besides parent support, how else is Maranatha funding its operational expenses?

A: Maranatha is actively seeking financial support from alumni, parents of alumni, grandparents, corporations and friends, as well as from local foundations. Our entire Maranatha community is needed to help Maranatha succeed.

Q: If I have more questions, With whom should I speak?

A: Please contact the Advancement Office with any questions at (626) 817-4070 or advancement@mhs-hs.org.