Annual Fund.

Dear St. James' Episcopal School Families, Staff, Vestry and Board Members:
It is a privilege to write to you not only as a parent of two St. James' students, but also as Chairperson of the St. James' Episcopal School Board and parishioner of St. James' Episcopal Church. Being part of a community that values spirituality and academic excellence and respects the dignity of every human being is truly inspirational. It inspires a closer relationship with God, a sense of belonging, and a desire to seek knowledge and fairness. Like me, you have chosen to be part of this community - and for that, the faculty, administration, and board members of St. James' are thankful.
Your faith in our School is what keeps us moving forward on this journey. Without your support, we would not have been voted "Best Preschool" in Warrenton Lifestyle this year; we would not have a second grade; we would not be a leader in education for the last 29 years.

Together we share a common belief that a St. James' education is worth it. And more importantly, we believe
our children are worth it.

• 2010 - 2011 Annual Fund was used to add 28 trees, seven edible hedges, six raised beds, seven fruit plants, flowers, new mulch, and more in the Discovery Garden. The new space allows us to work with the Fauquier County Co-Operative Extension's "Ready, Set, Grow" program with our elementary students to plant flowers and learn about plant lifecycles. Our second grade uses the Discovery Garden for science projects and observation. The School and Church use the space for special events like Moving Up celebrations, the Garden Gala, picnics, Field Day, and Easter egg hunts. And most importantly - the children love the open space and garden areas to run, play, explore, imagine, discover and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors with which God has blessed us.
  
  
• 2009 - 2010 Annual Fund was used to expand the playground into the adjacent open space in the backyard of the home of Father Chris and his family for the creation of a natural play area and garden, now known as the Discovery Garden. The project included the removal of fencing and unwanted plantings, moving the shed and playground equipment, and the planting of many native plants. This space allows more room for general play and sports.

The money raised in this year's Campaign goes into the operating budget for the following year. It funds enrichment programs, professional development for staff, the Discovery Garden, visual and performing arts, and building costs. Even more important, our Annual Fund Campaign provides us with an essential means of renewing the bonds of community with our valued supporters. It reminds us that we are united in our hopes and dreams for our children.
This year our focus is on 100 percent participation from every St. James' family - parents, staff, School Board, and Vestry. A gift of any size will help us reach that goal. We hope that every family will contribute as their means allow, and that every family finds a way to participate. It is a fact that when everyone is united to support a cause, the results are remarkable. Let us unite in our giving to honor the past, present, and future of our School. As our Annual Fund Donation Form states, "They're Worth It!"
Always know you may contact me about the School and its future. I look forward to sharing our story with you.
Sincerely,

Melanie Bartenstein Lillard
SJES Board Chairperson
schoolboard@saintjamesepiscopalschool.orgschoolboard@saintjamesepiscopalschool.org

"Now as you excel in everything - in faith, in speech, in
knowledge, in utmost eagerness, and in our love for you -
so we want you to excel also in this grace of giving."
2 Corinthians 8:7

You can donate by using the Annual Fund Donation Form accompanied by a check; or complete it online and donate securely through Pay Pal using the button below; or call the School Office to arrange a donation payment plan through your Smart Tuition account.