Annual Fund

List of 8 frequently asked questions.

• What is the money raised from the GOA Annual Fund used for?

  These funds support everything we do at GOA every day from academic and teaching excellence to professional development for teachers, extracurricular activities in the arts, sports and STEM. Funds also support experiential Jewish education and a multitude of leadership and enrichment opportunities for our students. The GOA Annual Fund ensures that the school can provide critical affordability and financial aid programs.

• As current parents who already pay tuition, why is giving to the Annual Fund important?

  Like many other independent schools, annual fundraising bridges the gap between tuition and operating costs. At GOA, tuition does not cover all operating costs. Therefore, an additional $1M needs to be raised on an annual basis to ensure our school continues to deliver an excellent education to each of our students. We strive to achieve 100% parent participation at any level of support. Major donors and foundations look to parent participation as a positive indicator of community engagement and support.

• Why do we need the support of school alumni?

  We need your help to make sure students of today have the same wonderful Jewish day school experience at SSDS/GOA. Today, more than 50% of our students rely on financial assistance to receive a Jewish day school education. The school provides more than $4 million annually to support financial aid. The GOA Annual Fund also supports alumni outreach programs such as the Alumni Professional Shabbat Dinner, College Alumni Basketball Game, freshman care packages and reunions.

• Why do we need to give when we have a significant endowment?

  While we are blessed with a large endowment that ensures our future, we can only spend 5% of the endowment annually and retain the principle in perpetuity. Endowment income is also highly restricted and primarily funds financial aid and several specific donor-designated areas. Annual fundraising still comprises a critical 10% of our annual operating budget.

• Are there giving recognition opportunities?

  We have special recognition for our donors. Those who give $5,000 and above are invited to a special Major Gifts appreciation event in a private home. Donors who give at the Chai Society level ($1,800 and above) are invited to a special event.

• How much should we give to the GOA Annual Fund?

  Any amount that is meaningful to you—whether $18 or $18,000 or anywhere in between—makes a difference and is greatly appreciated.

• When is my gift due?

  Gifts for the 2022-23 Annual Fund are payable through December 31, 2023. You can make your gift online now at or mail it to: Office of Development, Golda Och Academy, 1418 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange, NJ 07052. For more information, or to learn about other ways to contribute, please contact Stephanie Bash-Soudry, Director of Institutional Advancement or call 973-602-3612.

• How do I become more involved?

  We have a team of more than 60 volunteer workers who help with our fundraising efforts as well as grade captains who communicate with families in their classes and help ensure we have 100% participation from each grade. We are always looking for people who care deeply about Golda Och Academy and are invested in its future. If interested, please contact Stephanie Bash-Soudry.