Why Give
Your charitable gift to Eastside Christian School provides support above and beyond the cost of attendance that helps accomplish some of our most important priorities:
-
Strengthening the only Preschool–8th grade independent Christian school in the Seattle area.
-
Managing tuition and investing in financial assistance so that excellent Christian education is affordable and accessible to as many families as possible.
-
Providing an exciting and joyful learning experience for our students through enriching experiences, equipment, and supplies.
-
Making ECS a great place for our employees to teach and grow as professionals.
Tuition alone does not fully cover the cost of providing the Christ-centered education and vibrant community experiences that define ECS. The generosity of families, grandparents, alumni, and friends helps sustain our mission and ensures that the school continues to thrive for generations of students.
Supporters typically invest in the mission of ECS through five primary funds and fundraising initiatives:
Eagle Legacy Fund (Annual Fund)
The Eagle Legacy Fund is the school’s annual fund and directly supports the operational budget of ECS. Because it complements tuition revenue, the strength of the Eagle Legacy Fund helps us maintain academic excellence while keeping ECS as affordable and accessible as possible. Gifts to this fund support teacher salaries, technology, curriculum, and the many day-to-day resources that make learning thrive. Allocation of these funds is determined annually by school administration with oversight from the ECS Board. The Eagle Legacy Fund is also an excellent opportunity to leverage employer matching programs.
Board Capital Fund
The Board Capital Fund supports long-term campus improvements and capital projects. Originally established to help fund future building initiatives and campus development, this fund allows the school to invest thoughtfully in facilities that will serve students and families for years to come. Any expenditures from this fund are determined and authorized by the ECS Board of Directors.
Permanent Endowment Fund
The Permanent Endowment Fund was established to support the long-term financial stability of ECS. Contributions remain in the fund in perpetuity, and eventually a portion of the investment growth will be used to support the school’s operating budget. Fundraising for the endowment continues until the fund reaches its designated minimum threshold, at which point the school will be able to use a portion of the fund’s earnings to provide consistent, long-term support for programs, scholarships, and initiatives that benefit prospective and current families. The fund is managed by the Finance Committee with oversight from the ECS Board.
Annual Auction & Gala
The annual Auction & Gala is one of ECS’s signature community events, bringing families and friends together for a lively evening of celebration and generosity in support of the school. Auction proceeds support the school in two primary ways:
• Fund-A-Need, which invests in a specific initiative selected each year by school leadership and the ECS Board
• General auction proceeds, which help support operating costs beyond what tuition alone provides
The Auction also provides an opportunity for local businesses and community partners to support the school through sponsorships and donated items.
Fun Run & Preschool Trike-A-Thon
Organized by the Parent-Teacher Fellowship (PTF), the K-8 Fun Run and Preschool Trike-A-Thon are joyful annual events that engage the entire community. Funds raised support initiatives that enrich student life, including community-building activities, teacher appreciation efforts, classroom enrichment, and campus improvements that go beyond what tuition provides. The PTF collaborates with school leadership each year to determine how these funds are invested.
While these are the primary channels for giving, supporters may also make restricted gifts to invest in areas of particular passion, such as financial aid, technology, arts, athletics, or other strategic initiatives.
For more information about giving, employer matching programs, stock donations, or planned giving opportunities, please contact the ECS Director of Finance.
ECS Tax ID (EIN): 91-0848128