There’s a common myth in nonprofit schools that the board is in charge of fundraising, while the Head of School stays focused on day-to-day operations. That myth is not just unhelpful, it’s dangerous.
Fundraising is not a department, a line item, or a board committee. It’s a culture.
And to build a strong culture of giving, both the Board and the Head of School must show up as partners, each playing a distinct but essential role.
Let’s unpack what that partnership looks like and how schools can move beyond guilt and avoidance toward confidence and collaboration.
1. Start with Shared Mindsets
Fundraising isn’t about asking for money. It’s about:
- Inviting people to invest in something meaningful
- Building relationships rooted in trust and transparency
- Communicating vision, impact, and gratitude
When the Head and Board are aligned in that mindset, fundraising stops feeling like a burden and starts feeling like a shared responsibility.
2. Why the Head of School Must Be Visible
The Head of School is the voice and face of the mission. Families and donors want to hear from the person leading the work.
That doesn’t mean the Head is cold-calling donors or writing grant proposals at midnight. It means:
- Attending donor events and open houses
- Thanking families for their contributions—with sincerity, not scripts
- Sharing stories of impact that bring the mission to life
- Helping shape the case for support—so fundraising aligns with the school’s priorities
When the Head is present and engaged, people are more likely to give—and give again.
3. The Board’s Role in Making the Ask
While the Head builds relationships and communicates the mission, the Board is responsible for:
- Making personal financial contributions
- Helping identify potential donors or community partners
- Participating in fundraising campaigns or events
- Using their networks to expand the school’s visibility
Board members often hesitate to ask for money, but it becomes easier when:
- They believe in the mission
- They’ve seen the Head’s commitment
- They have clear roles and coaching
4. Create a Culture, Not a Crisis Response
Too often, schools only talk about fundraising when there’s a gap to fill. But a strong fundraising culture is proactive, not reactive.
Consider:
- Hosting an annual “State of the School” presentation for families and donors
- Creating a fundraising calendar that aligns with school events
- Training board members with scripts, FAQs, and success stories
- Sharing monthly updates on fundraising progress and goals
When everyone knows their part and sees the plan, fundraising feels achievable—not mysterious.
5. Keep the Mission Front and Center
Fundraising isn’t about balancing the budget—it’s about fulfilling the mission.
Whether you’re raising money for tuition assistance, teacher salaries, or a new outdoor classroom, make sure every ask is connected to the “why.” Tell stories. Show impact. And invite others into the journey.
Final Reflection
Yes, the board has a legal and ethical responsibility to help fund the school. But they can’t do it alone. And they shouldn’t.
When the Head leads with visibility and vision—and the Board supports with strategy and commitment—fundraising becomes not just sustainable, but joyful.
Because ultimately, we’re not asking people to give to a school—we’re asking them to invest in children, in community, and a better future.
If fundraising still feels unclear or uneven in your school, you are not alone. Many leadership teams are working to shift from a reactive approach to something more consistent and shared.
In Healthy Governance & Leadership Relationships in Small Schools, we include practical tools to support that shift. The Tip Sheet: 10 Ways Heads of School Can Lead Fundraising Without Asking for Money offers concrete, approachable ways for Heads to build visibility, trust, and connection without carrying the full burden of the ask. The Board Member Fundraising Commitments & Confidence Builder helps trustees understand their role clearly, with specific, realistic ways to contribute.
When both the Head and Board have clarity and support, fundraising becomes more coordinated, more relational, and far less intimidating. This guide is designed to help you build that kind of culture over time.
