The Orchard School has received a $2 million commitment from an anonymous donor as part of its capital campaign, Celebrating Our Roots; Cultivating for the Future. This gift will help advance the school's mission of ‘developing and educating the whole child’ into its second century of Progressive education in Central Indiana. 

 

To lay the groundwork for the next 100 years, the school began an $11 million capital campaign in 2016. The campaign has resulted in three new natural playgrounds, a state-of-the-art makerspace, increased support for faculty and students via dedicated endowed funds, technology improvements, and green initiatives.

 

"This historic $2 million gift honors the success of our founders in establishing Orchard nearly 100 years ago and plants the seeds for our future. It’s a true testament to the strength and generosity of our community," said Head of School, Dr. Sherri Helvie.

 

This commitment is one of the most significant philanthropic contributions the school has ever received. It will bring the campaign just $50,000 from its completion and allow additional campaign contributions for the faculty support fund to be matched dollar for dollar.

 

"Orchard is now nearly at the finish line for completion of our first capital campaign in 20 years. It is a tremendous honor to extend the opportunity for a match to all Orchard donors and draw upon the power of this truly transformational gift," said Director of Institutional Advancement Stephen Sturman.