71% of Teachers Hold a Graduate Degree
Nearly three-quarters of teachers at INDEX schools have earned a graduate degree – an 8% increase over the past decade, driven primarily by growth in doctoral degrees.
Why this matters: Rising faculty credential levels may signal increased expectations for instructional expertise and create upward pressure on compensation structures.
Energy Costs Up 32% Over Five Years
Annual energy costs per square foot have increased 32% over the past five years. This represents a 5.7% compounded annual growth rate (CAGR), outpacing the 4.5% tuition CAGR over the same period.
Why this matters: Energy costs are rising faster than tuition, potentially constraining future budget flexibility.
Half of Schools Limit Advanced Coursework
Approximately 50% of responding schools (27 total) report limiting the number of honors or advanced classes students may take, typically allowing for appeals.
Why this matters: Schools are increasingly balancing academic rigor with student workload, equity, and well-being considerations.
Boards Provide 30% of Capital Campaign Funding
In recent capital campaigns, INDEX schools report that board gifts accounted for 30% of funds raised; the lead gift averaged 16% of total campaign revenue; and the top 10 gifts comprised 50% of total funds.
Why this matters: Board participation remains a cornerstone of campaign success, while the concentration of half of campaign revenue among the top 10 gifts highlights the outsized impact of major donors.
Half of Schools Send Physical Thank-You Letters
About 50% of responding schools (29 total) send physical thank-you letters for all gifts. In 93% of schools, the advancement services staff manages the acknowledgement process.
Why this matters: Despite digital communication trends, tangible donor recognition continues to play a meaningful role in stewardship strategies.