Have a question that isn’t answered below or need additional information? Contact LiJin Yan at li_yan@cais.org.
What does the Firedragon Annual Fund support?
- Transformative Faculty – competitive salaries and professional growth opportunities to attract and retain the very best
- Adjusted Tuition that Expands Access – opening doors for more students to experience CAIS
- Joyful Learning Spaces – classrooms where curiosity, creativity, and joy thrive
- High-Quality, Safe, and Innovative Facilities – spaces designed for exploration, collaboration, and growth
- Global Learning & Cultural Exchange – experiences that broaden horizons and connect students to the world
- Innovative Programs – sparking curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning
- Arts & Athletics Excellence – nurturing talent, teamwork, and confidence
- Out-of-the-Classroom Experiences – field trips and adventures that bring learning to life
How much should I give?
- We invite families to consider a gift of $1,981 or more. That said, every gift counts—your support is a personal choice, and all contributions help make the Firedragon Annual Fund a success! All gift helps set the table for the school’s greatness. So, we ask you to make a gift that is meaningful to you and hope that as your capacity and passion grow over time, so can your support for CAIS.
- Each year, we proudly achieve almost 100% family participation.
Can I make my Firedragon Annual Fund gift in the spring instead of the fall?
Yes! You can pledge your Firedragon Annual Fund gift in the fall before our campaign wraps up on December 31 and then pay your pledge in the spring before June 1. The sooner you donate, the sooner your gift will be put to use!
Why doesn’t tuition cover costs?
Like most independent schools, tuition covers most—but not all—of the cost of a full CAIS experience. It accounts for about 80%, leaving the remaining 20% to be supported by philanthropy (that’s where your generous support of the Annual Fund and ShowCAIS comes in!) and auxiliary programs.
Why doesn’t CAIS increase tuition to cover the full cost?
Keeping tuition accessible helps us maintain a diverse and vibrant community. The remaining 20% of costs is supported through philanthropy (like the Annual Fund and ShowCAIS) and auxiliary programs. This approach enables families to make tax-deductible gifts that not only cover the gap but also exceed it to support innovative programs, exceptional faculty, and joyful learning experiences. It’s a common practice at independent schools, ensuring every student can thrive.
What is the difference between giving to the Annual Fund and ShowCAIS?
Your gifts to the Firedragon Annual Fund and ShowCAIS both play a vital role in supporting CAIS and helping close the gap between tuition and the full cost of a CAIS education.
Gifts to both the Annual Fund and ShowCAIS—including tickets, sponsorships, party sign-ups, and online or live auction purchases—are unrestricted and used at the school’s discretion where the need is greatest during the school year. Note: Gifts to ShowCAIS are not fully tax-deductible. The Advancement team will provide an acknowledgment letter specifying the portion that is tax-deductible above and beyond the value received.
At ShowCAIS, there is also an opportunity to give to Fund-A-Need, which is a restricted, fully tax-deductible gift and the school’s primary restricted giving option.
How will the new tax laws affect my giving?
With new tax laws set to take effect in 2026, now is the best time to complete your 2025 pledge. Under the current rules, all charitable gifts made by December 31, 2025, are fully deductible without the new limits that will apply starting next year.
Beginning in 2026, deductions for charitable giving will face new restrictions—such as a 0.5% of income floor before deductions count and a reduced deduction cap for high earners. By fulfilling your pledge this year, you’ll maximize both your impact on CAIS and your tax benefit under today’s rules.
You can read more about these upcoming changes here: Important 2026 Tax Changes – Why 2025 Is a Key Year for Charitable Giving
What are the ways I can give, and how can I do so?
We make giving easy! You can support CAIS with credit card, check, wire, stock, donor-advised funds (DAF), crypto, and more. Click here to see all the ways to give and instructions for each.
Is CAIS a 401(c)(3)? Can I submit my gift for matching through my company?
Yes! CAIS is a nonprofit 401(c)(3), which means many companies will match your gift, potentially doubling or even tripling your support. Not sure if your employer offers matching? Check with your HR to find out. Some companies also provide special matching opportunities on #GivingTuesday, which this year falls on Tuesday, December 2.