What is the Annual Drive? What is it for?
Western Academy, as an independent private school, does not receive permanent funding from any public or private entity.  The school balances its budget mainly through tuition and its fundraising efforts.  The Annual Drive is the primary fundraiser that supports the on-going campus improvements and maintenance, build-up the emergency fund, and financial aid.  The Annual Drive’s goal is $500,000.  Western Academy’s $8.7M budget for 2026-2027 school year requires the school to raise operational funds of $1.7M.

Why do we need to participate?
Financial support for the school allows for financial stability and continued growth in excellence. Giving to Western Academy allows the institution to offer this education to more families and boys in Houston. The full participation of its faculty, staff, board, and families plays a great part in its fiscal viability. In addition, the school’s NO-FEES tuition structure requires operational fundraising. Instead of mandatory fees, the Annual Drive is an opportunity for parents to make a tax-free donation to help fund the operational costs. In the 2026-2027 school year, the cost to educate each boy at Western is $34,804.

Western’s near-term plans to open the high school rely on a strong and balanced annual budget. The success of operational fundraising positions the school to seek capital gifts and investments toward its future plans.

How many fundraisers does Western have?
Western Academy typically has three operating fundraisers every year: The Annual Drive, Go Western, and The Founding Roots Dinner. Along with major gifts from individuals and foundation grants, the school is able to secure the operational funding goals. Furthermore, as a young and growing school, capital fundraising is an on-going activity.

Which one should I participate in?
Every fundraising effort helps fulfil the mission of the school. Every family within the Western community is encouraged to be as generous as possible to all fundraising efforts. We do encourage full participation in the Annual Drive by the Board, teachers, and current families, as full participation shows outside funders a strong school community. Fundraising events are also critical in reaching the annual goals.

What if a family cannot participate?
Each family is encouraged to ‘chip-in’ toward the goal, even with modest amounts. Installments allow families the flexibility to make consistent contributions throughout the school year. Pledges allow families to contribute according to their ideal time of the year. Pledge fulfillment deadline is at the end of April 2027.

Can the school receive corporate matching gifts?
Yes! We encourage all of our donors to take advantage of corporate matching opportunities. The matching option is on the donation form on the website. Further processing and needed documentation is handled by Mr. Tim Keenley.

How can I donate?
Most standard methods preferred by donors are acceptable. Checks are most preferred, on-line credit card, cash, Donor Advised Funds (DAF) checks, and recurring credit card payments. Stock gifts are welcome, as a means of taking advantage of tax-deduction laws for the donor.

Who do I call or meet if I have questions?
Reach our to Mr. Albert Chincuanco at albert.chincuanco@westernacademy.net or Mr. Keenley on transaction related items at tim.keenley@westernacademy.net. Questions specific to the Annual Drive, the chairs or the respective class captains should be able to field the questions within the FAQ’s contained in this document.