Whitefield Fund First
The Whitefield Fund
Investing in the lives of Christ-honoring critical thinkers, clear communicators, and compassionate leaders.
The Whitefield Fund is our highest giving priority because it touches every life that is part of our learning community. Outside of tuition, philanthropic gifts from families, friends, and foundations are an important source of revenue for the school.
Yes, I’m ready to make a gift!
Gifts made to the Whitefield Fund will be applied to the following priorities:
Greatest Need
This provides flexible support to every area of the school to ensure that it continues to grow and thrive.
Faculty Excellence
Whitefield faculty are intelligent, enthusiastic, Christ-centered educators who believe in our mission and strive every day to instill the love of learning and desire for God. Your support enables Whitefield faculty and staff to engage in more opportunities for professional development.
Financial Aid
Historically, Whitefield has awarded financial assistance to approximately one-third of our students. Your support will directly impact Whitefield scholars who may otherwise not have access to a high quality and faith-based education.
Whitefield Fund
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it unusual that Whitefield Academy asks parents, grandparents, alumni, and friends to make an annual donation?
No, it is not unusual. All independent schools, colleges, and universities have an annual fund giving campaign.
Should I make a gift if I am already paying tuition?
Tuition pays for the operating expenses at Whitefield Academy. Financial aid, faculty education, and other special enhancements all come from the dollars raised by the Whitefield Fund. Your gift, in any amount, is an investment in the education of your child and each and every student at Whitefield.
Will we have additional fundraisers?
No. Instead of hosting fundraisers throughout the year, Whitefield now seeks voluntary gifts during a 6-week annual fund campaign. The impact a robust annual fund will make on our school is far greater than multiple efforts.
Why is participation so important?
Participation builds a strong and critical base of donors. It builds momentum that inspires others to give. All of Whitefield’s community members are more likely to make a gift if a significant number of their peers are contributing. Participation is an expression of confidence in our mission to build a Christ-centered school that equips students to be Christ-honoring critical thinkers, clear communicators, and compassionate leaders, through the pursuit of academic excellence, in the tradition of classical Christian education.
Is fund raising only about really big donations?
No way! Whitefield thrives on—and is grateful for—gifts at all levels. The Whitefield Fund represents a collective effort to raise a cumulative total. Donors of relatively smaller but consistent gifts have always made a key difference in Whitefield’s ability to educate a student body without regard for their financial circumstances, hire the best faculty, and add class sections in accordance with Whitefield’s Strategic Plan. All gifts are critical to our mission.
When should I give?
While the Whitefield Fund accepts gifts throughout the year, your early gift or pledge helps us plan early for the following school year. We ask current families to give or pledge during our campaign in the fall. Pledge payments are due by June 30, 2023.
What happens if the goal in any given year is not met?
With the exception of the special project for each year (for example, last year’s Invest In Recess project supported by the Serve Day fundraiser), any gifts given towards programs are spent in the following fiscal year at the amount that has been raised.
Selby Memorial Scholarship
November 29, 1953 – January 3, 2023
Mr. Jim Selby, classical and Christian education visionary, beloved mentor, and outstanding teacher, served Whitefield Academy students, faculty and staff, and parents for over twenty years. Mr. Selby’s exemplary love for his students and their well-being was clear and intentional. In recent years. Mr. Selby taught Rhetoric to Whitefield’s oldest students but had formerly been active as Whitefield’s Dean of Faculty, Interim Head of School, and teacher of multiple subjects. He moved his family to Kansas City in 2001 in order to hone and further Whitefield’s vision.
Most importantly, Mr. Selby demonstrated a deep devotion to Christ. Wisdom, kindness, humility, and compassion are words used by multiple students, co-workers, and parents to describe him. Mr. Selby was an internationally known expert on the Progymnasmata and classical teaching. Academic papers published and presented have influenced educators worldwide.
Mr. Selby’s legacy will continue to inspire students to become critical thinkers, clear communicators, and compassionate leaders.
Scholarship funds will assist those with financial need, with priority given to minority students.
Additional ways to support Whitefield
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. Whitefield Academy’s prayer warriors, Whitefield In Prayer, gather weekly to lift the community up in prayer. They pray over every student and staff member by name as well as fill community prayer requests. Click the button above to join them in prayer or to submit a prayer request of your own.
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace” 1 Peter 4:10. Whitefield teachers walk alongside parents as partners in the education of their children. Parents are encouraged to use their time and talents to serve the school both in and out of the classroom. Click the link above to connect with our Parent Teacher Fellowship organization which seeks to support teachers and build community among families.