Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are there consequences for conservatories with low CFA funding?
    Yes. If there are conservatories with low parent pledges/contributions, those conservatories may have a modified or reduced program, including fewer performance opportunities and/or decreased instructional days. Please consider making a tax-deductible contribution at the highest level possible for your family.

  • What does the arts conservatory funding pay for?
    OCSA receives funding from the State of California for the academic instructional program; however, the arts conservatory programs are funded exclusively by donations. The school needs to raise approximately $10 million through parent participation and the work of the OCSA Foundation to pay for 100% of the arts conservatory instructional expenses.

  • If I cannot contribute the full requested amount, are there other ways to contribute to my child's conservatory?
    Yes. We recognize that each family has a unique financial situation; however, we encourage you to contribute through the CFA form at the highest level possible. If you are not able to contribute the full requested amount for your child’s conservatory, you have the opportunity to sell or purchase program advertising space in the school’s digital yearlong performance program and/or digital Gala program.

  • Do these arts conservatory contributions include performance opportunities?
    Yes. Each conservatory director will determine their performance/event calendar for the school year based upon the budget available from parent pledges made through the CFA form. Additional performance donations may be requested for specific performance opportunities.

  • Can I contribute using my employer’s matching gift program?
    Yes. Many corporations offer a matching gift program. For each dollar donated to the school, your employer may match your contribution. Additional information can be found HERE.

  • How do I solicit funds from corporations or foundations?
    Please contact Greg McCollum, Director of Corporate & Business Relations, at gregory.mccollum@ocsarts.net or 714.560.0900 ext. 6616 to find out more about our corporate sponsorship program.

  • What is the OCSA Foundation?
    Philanthropy plays a key role in OCSA’s ability to provide this transformative arts and academic experience. OCSA is not a private school; as a public charter school, it is donation dependent. OCSA serves a diverse student body and is accessible to all students, regardless of their family’s ability or willingness to contribute. 

    The nonprofit OCSA Foundation helps raise approximately $3 million annually in private contributions from individuals, businesses, corporations, and foundations to support the following areas:

    • State-of-the-art facilities

    • Support in need who qualify for the federal Free and Reduced Lunch Program (FRLP) through the Artist Scholarship Sponsorship Program

    • OCSA’s Master Artist Series

    • Enriching opportunities, equipment, and supplies above and beyond conservatory budgets

    • Accessible community arts engagement programming

    • The OCSA Foundation is not designed to single-handedly fund the day-to-day operations of the school, but rather to partner with parents to provide additional financial support and enrichment opportunities to benefit all students.

  • Who can I contact with additional questions?
    Please contact Family Liaison Becky Parsons at 714.560.0900 ext. 5535 or becky.parsons@ocsarts.net with any questions.