We Want It to Be the Best School Possible

Why one family gives their time and talent to Gardner

For the Stark family, Gardner School is not only where their three children go to school, but it's also a community worth investing in fully.

As both parents and board members, the Starks have committed not just tuition, but countless hours and generous resources to help shape Gardner's future. When asked why they give so much beyond what's required, the answer is beautifully simple.

"My kids are the most important thing to me," they explain. "While they are here, I want to make Gardner the best school it can be."

A Philosophy of Participation

For the Starks, involvement isn't optional when you care deeply about something.

"If you care about this kind of place and you want it to exist, then I feel like you have to participate in it," they share. "We have the ability to give, so we choose to do so. When we participate, we are choosing to make the school stronger."

This isn't passive support — it's active partnership. The family approaches each request with openness, evaluating what they can contribute and how they can help move the school forward.

"It can be as good as we want to make it," they reflect. "We do a lot for it mostly because we want it to be the best school possible."

Looking to the Future

As board members, the Starks keep their eyes on the long game. Their primary concern? Ensuring Gardner remains financially healthy so it can continue providing exceptional experiences for children and families.

But their vision extends beyond stability.

"My second goal would be for Gardner to grow and expand our presence in the community," they explain. "I think it would be great to sustainably provide this kind of experience to families for generations to come."

For the Stark family, giving back isn't about recognition — it's about building something that will outlast any single family's time at the school. It's about creating a legacy of excellence that future Gardner families will inherit and, hopefully, continue to build upon.

Are you interested in learning more about supporting Gardner School? Contact us to learn about giving opportunities.