FAQs : Seton Catholic School

Why do we need to upgrade the electrical system in the elementary building?

Answer: The electrical capacity remains the same as when it was built in the1950s. As in our homes, the demands of our increasingly digital world require additional electrical capacity and access. An upgrade will not only meet the needs of our classrooms but of the building mechanical systems.

Given the age of the Seton Elementary School building, wouldn’t replacing the boiler be one of the first improvements?

Answer: While the boiler is reaching the point of replacement, it has been sufficiently maintained over the years. Before the boiler is replaced we will need to upgrade the original electrical system to meet the demands of a digitally controlled boiler.

Doesn’t the elementary building need air conditioning? Why wasn’t that a goal of the campaign?

Answer: Although it would be nice to have air conditioning, there are so few days in the school year when air conditioning is needed. This limited need reduces the priority of such a large investment at this time. There are more pressing improvements that will benefit students and teachers on a daily basis. In addition, we need more energy efficient windows and a new electrical system with greater capacity before installing air conditioning.

I thought the new elementary building windows were paid for by a donor’s generous gift. What funds need to be replaced?

Answer: The total cost of window replacement in the elementary school is $200,000. A Seton benefactor donated half of this amount. The remaining cost was funded through Seton’s Endowment Fund, allowing the school to begin the 2018-2019 school year with energy-efficient windows. The intent is to replace the endowment funds to meet the school’s future needs.

Will Seton Catholic School still hold the Catholic Schools Week Annual Appeal in January 2019?

Answer: No, the Annual Appeal will be suspended for the 2018-2019 school year. Part of the proceeds of the TTT Capital Campaign will be used to cover the funds that this appeal normally generates for the school.

Can I make a contribution to the Illinois Tax-Credit Scholarship Program in order to benefit the TTT Capital Campaign?

Answer: Yes, the State of Illinois Invest in Kids Act provides new tax advantaged opportunities to invest in Seton and our students. Donations received through the Invest In Kids Fund in the form of Seton scholarships will allow Seton to redirect budgeted funds for tuition assistance toward our capital expenditures. This new state program is very positive for Seton and offers donors significant Illinois state tax savings.

For more information on how to utilize this program, please email Karla Larsen, Seton Business Manager, at klarsen@setonschool.com. She can also be reached at (309) 764-5418 ext. 206. In addition it is recommended that you consult your tax advisor.