The Madison Country Day School community came together to exceed the annual fund goal, with 90% of families contributing to the Elevate: Together We Rise Higher campaign by the Dec. 31, 2025 deadline.
“The annual fund is incredibly important to help the school keep improving,” said Adina Gasser, interim director of development.
Head of School Mark Brooks announced the campaign surpassed its $375,000 target.
Families in the Class of ‘39, Class of ’36, Class of ’35 and Class of ’34 had 100% participation rates for the 2025 Annual Fund, with a 97% participation rate for the Class of ’29.
The fund bridges the gap between tuition revenue and operating costs.
So, how much does it cost to operate a school like MCDS?
In 2024-2025, school expenses totaled approximately $13 million, while tuition brought in $9.3 million. Other income sources, including sports events, musicals and fees, cover most of the difference, but around $375,000 must come from fundraising.
Annual fund dollars support programs beyond what tuition covers, including nearly $70,000 for professional development last year. That spending pays for International Baccalaureate training for new teachers and helps faculty pursue advanced degrees.
The fund also supports facility upgrades. The Prairie Hawk Commons was renovated in summer 2024, following a Learning Commons renovation the previous year.
“It actually helps us keep our facility looking beautiful and doing upgrades throughout the year,” Gasser said.
While donors can direct gifts toward specific areas such as scholarships, technology or facilities, most designate their contributions “to the greatest need.” School leadership consults the five-year strategic plan to determine how those dollars are distributed.
Gasser said the fund helps keep tuition increases modest for families.
“Sometimes we do have to raise tuition when the cost of living goes up,” she said.
MCDS is ranked the No. 1 Best Private K-12 School in Wisconsin.
