FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

COVID RESPONSE

WHAT IS QUEST?

WHAT IS QUEST FOR EDUCATION AND ARTS?

Quest for Education and Arts is a 501(c)3 enrichment center where industry leaders bring hands-on experiences to curious learners in a Christ-centered environment. We are dedicated to providing freedom in educational choice to families in Southern Arizona. Quest supports and encourages parent-directed education, allowing families to develop specialized academic paths for each student. Through parent-directed education, students are free to discover and explore their God-given gifts, talents, and interests.

WHAT IS YOUR MAIN GOAL?

Our main goal is empowering parents and their children to take control of their education by offering custom-tailored courses and educational choices that impact their future today.

WHAT MAKES QUEST DIFFERENT?

Our one-of-a-kind approach grants our participants the opportunity to cultivate their interests in a safe and nurturing environment. As children discover new gifts and talents, families can custom tailor course choices based on their child’s current skill level creating an impactful and individualized education. Through innovation, hands-on learning, and endless possibilities, our students are inspired to pursue their interests.

WHO CAN COME TO QUEST?

Everyone! We serve public, private, home-schooled, unschooled students, college students, and adults. Quest is blessed to partner with each family and unique child creating a love for exploration, education, and experience. Our programs provide limitless opportunities for adults, teens, and children. We believe there should be no boundaries to learning.

WHO DOES QUEST SERVE?

It is our tremendous honor to serve the communities of Southern Arizona by cultivating young minds through innovation. Quest enhances your child’s education by filling in the gaps where parents or educational institutions may desire to help their students achieve greater success. Our goal is to enhance education in students, toddlers through adults. Through our commitment to freedom in education, participants can attend courses that enhance and strengthen their choice of education. Home school, charter, public, and private school students are all welcome to participate in our dynamic hands-on programming.

What type of courses does your community center serve? 

Over the past 17 years, we have grown substantially from just one science course to currently offering over 200 STEAM-based courses. In addition to Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math, we offer core education such as English and History, elective classes in graphic design, software training, photography, and a comprehensive fine arts program including dance, art, martial arts, music, and private lessons. Quest is entirely pledge donation-based and qualifies for Arizona Charitable tax credits.

Do you offer activities in addition to courses?

Absolutely! We have after-school programs students can be involved in such as Rock Band, Martial Arts, Gymnastics, Odyssey of the Mind, and Graphic Design. In addition to courses, Quest has a full array of clubs for students and annual events. We also offer a vocational internship program for students and adults. 

Does Quest have a vocational intern program?

Our two-year vocational program is designed to assist interns with the development of new and marketable skills while growing leadership qualities. Vocational participants are a valuable asset to accomplishing our organization’s mission and goals. Interns are offered top-notch software training, workforce education, skill-building workshops, and hands-on leadership experience for career-minded positions. We aim to set our participants on a career path that will serve them in a life-long capacity. The program is open to anyone 16 and older.

ARE YOU A SCHOOL?

Quest is an education-forward non-profit community center. Our passion is bringing spectacular educational opportunities to toddlers through adults. Our non-profit status allows Quest and our participants the freedom to learn, think, and grow outside the box. Quest caters to educational freedom in an exciting and innovative way.

WILL QUEST BECOME A SCHOOL?

Quest will remain a non-profit ministry! We believe strongly in a parent’s choice to provide the best education they can for their children. As a ministry, we have the freedom to allow parents to custom-tailor their child’s education. Parents know better than anyone how to help their children be successful. We exist to support parents in their journey!

ACADEMICS

WHEN ARE COURSES OFFERED?

Courses are offered Monday – Thursday from 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Please see our class schedule for the exact days and times of each specific class.

HOW LONG ARE COURSES?

Most classes meet on campus just one day per week. Each class is approximately 1 to 2 hours per session with the academic year running between 28 - 30 weeks.

Why is your program 28-30 weeks? That doesn’t seem like enough time.

Quest is an enrichment center designed to support and enrich education chosen by parents. We believe parents know their children far better than anyone else and thus are the primary drivers of education. Our university-style enrichment program allows students to spend more time one-on-one with their families. Our commitment to smaller class sizes with engaging content requires less time than traditional education which in turn means families can spend time together.

WHAT IS THE COMMITMENT FOR CLASSES?

Some classes require weekly attendance while others are drop in. Many classes do require homework and preparation. We expect committed families to offer the best possible educational options in Southern AZ. Please check with the instructor to be clear about what each one expects. You will have 2 weeks to try out a class to be sure it is a good fit, but once that time has passed, you need to be fully committed for the entire school year.

WHAT IS THE ABSENCE POLICY?

We understand things happen, children get sick, relatives are visiting, or life just gets in the way. For maximum learning, Quest allows students to miss two (2) missed absences per course. However, if you have a circumstance that will require missing more than the two classes, please contact us! We are flexible with our students and parents. You can email at office@questforeducationandarts.com or call at 520.818.8064.

I AM NOT SURE WHAT TO SIGN MY CHILD UP FOR. HOW CAN I GET HELP?

You are welcome to speak with one of our staff members. We will guide you through the classes and help you discover the best options. You can schedule an Academic Advising appointment right here on the website at https://www.questforeducationandarts.com/contact.

WHAT IS PARENT DIRECTED EDUCATION?

Parent-directed education happens when a parent chooses to take an active role in deciding the best course for their child’s education. Parents love their children more than anyone else and are the best equipped to be the leaders in their children’s education. Parent-directed education applies to public, private, home education, and unschooling styles.

WHERE DO I FIND OUT HOW MY CHILD IS DOING IN CLASS?

Parents are expected to keep up with their child’s progress on our Schoology platform. We recommend the parent check in weekly to maintain consistency. In addition, speaking with your child’s instructor regularly can help parents understand the requirements of the class. Feel free to message the instructors through Schoology as well. Parents are always welcome to attend classes with students.

HOW DO I SIGN UP FOR CLASSES?

Visit our registration page and IClass our online registration platform to complete your registration. Preview the class catalog for more information on ages and prerequisites as well as the teacher and books required.

IS THERE AN OUTSIDE COMMITMENT?

Most courses require students to complete weekly homework. Any assignments outside of class can be accessed through our student portal.

HOW MUCH TIME IS NEEDED FOR OUTSIDE COMMITMENTS?

Outside commitments and assignments vary by instructor. There could be daily or weekly homework, attendance or participation in special events, field trips, or other commitments the instructor determines that will benefit the course. Please speak with your instructors about the expectations.

DOES QUEST MONITOR MY STUDENT’S PROGRESS?

It is the parent’s responsibility to hold their student accountable and monitor progress through the student portal. Quest is here to help you with your student’s education by supporting and advising your journey.

WHAT IS THE STUDENT PORTAL?

The student portal is an online platform where students can receive assignments, projects, grades, updates, and other information. This online platform allows instructors to communicate with students outside of regular class sessions should they need help or guidance. The portal can be accessed by students, parents, and instructors. Parents can monitor student progress through this online platform giving additional guidance and direction to their children.

FINANCE

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST QUEST TO RUN PROGRAMMING?

Quest operates on a minimal administrative budget ensuring 78% of our donations are directed toward our participants. Quest incurs $ 2971 worth of expenses per student for the year. Our expenses include rent and utilities, background checks, legal and accounting professionals, equipment, marketing, technology, instructor compensation, vocational stipends, tax processing, website maintenance and upkeep, promotion, and training just to name a few.

HOW MUCH DO COURSES COST?

Quest is a year-round ministry that operates 100% donation-based, thus courses are offered on a pledge donation basis to our participants. Pledges are set up to mimic the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit Program. Our pledges and fees page has all the information you’ll need.

HOW MUCH IS THE REQUESTED PLEDGE?

Your generous donations allow Quest to offer classes to students across Southern Arizona. While the minimum pledge does not cover our entire program costs, we are confident God will provide the additional funds for our organization to continue providing top-quality education.

ARE THERE WAYS TO COVER THE PLEDGE THAT DO NOT TAKE AWAY FROM MY FAMILY?

ABSOLUTELY! Quest is 100% committed to helping your family in as many ways as possible! Our organization qualifies for the Arizona CHARITABLE Tax Credits. You’re able to donate up to ($841 filing jointly and $421 filing singly). Quest Tax Code # - 22032. Tax credits give you the power to take control of how your tax dollars are spent! We can’t think of a better way to use those dollars than investing them in your child’s education! We have parents who have been extremely successful in acquiring tax credits. We are happy to pair you with one of them!

ARE THERE OTHER WAYS TO FULFILL THE PLEDGE?

Though tax credits are the most impactful ways to fulfill your pledge, we do have other options. You may volunteer to be part of our grant team, use ESA funding, build business partnerships, corporate matching grants, or participate in annual fundraising opportunities. We are continually looking for other opportunities to assist parents with fulfilling their pledges.

ARE THERE FEES TO ATTEND?  

Quest has two minimal standard fees to help our ministry provide incredible programming to our students.

• Program Fee - $50 per student annually. Due when you register.

The program fee covers the costs of our technology, software, administration, setup, and implementation of our program and registration for the academic year.

• Supply Fee - $200 annually per family. Due when you register.

The supply fee covers supplies needed for each class and program implementation. Those supplies can include basic items such as badges, ink, and dry-erase makers to far more expensive course-specific items an instructor may need to provide an exceptional experience for your student.

• Fine Arts Fee - $50 per student annually. Due 12/01.

The Fine Arts Fee helps cover the cost of the venue, technology, software, setup, and additional expenses incurred by the organization to provide this tremendous opportunity to our participants.

if I donate above my pledge, can it roll to the next year?

We are tremendously grateful for your financial support and extra gift donations toward our program! Our fiscal year runs from July 1 - June 30. As a non-profit, our donations are required to be spent within the fiscal year they are received so unfortunately extra gift donations do not roll to the next program year.

ARE FEES TAX DEDUCTIBLE?

Program, Supply, and Fine Arts fees are not tax deductible under US tax laws. Your donation statement will reflect your potential tax-deductible amount. Please speak with your tax professional about your tax liability.

ARE MY DONATIONS TAX DEDUCTIBLE?

General donations to the Ministry of Quest could be tax deductible on your itemized federal and state returns. Your donation statement will reflect your potential tax-deductible amount. Please speak with your tax professional about your tax liability.

WHY CAN'T YOU CHARGE FOR CLASSES INSTEAD OF ASKING FOR DONATIONS?

In order to be in compliance with AZ law, we cannot charge for classes or else we become a school.

TAX CREDITS

WHAT HAS CHANGED SINCE LAST YEAR?

The Arizona Department of Revenue has added a new reporting requirement for the qualifying charitable organization credits. For the most current updates, visit https://azdor.gov/tax-credits.A unique five-digit code has been assigned to each qualifying charitable organization and qualifying foster care charitable organization. These codes must be included on your tax return for the credits to be accepted. For example, the Quest’s code number is 22032.

WHAT KINDS OF TAX CREDITS CAN I GET FOR DONATING TO SCHOOLS OR CHARITY?

There are three types of tax credits offered in the state of Arizona. You can also get a tax break for making donations to a qualified charitable organization (That’s us!). You can claim a tax credit for donations made to K-12 Arizona public schools, including charter schools, and to School Tuition Organizations, which provide scholarships to private schools. You can also receive credits for donating to the foster-care organization, or to the Arizona Military Family Relief Fund, which provides financial assistance for active duty service members, pre and post-9/11 veterans, and their families.

DO I HAVE TO CHOOSE ONE CATEGORY OR CAN I GIVE TO ALL OF THEM?

You can donate to ALL of them, up to the maximum amount allowed in each category. Please consult your tax advisor to verify your total tax liability.

CAN I MAKE MORE THAN ONE DONATION WITHIN EACH CATEGORY?

Yes, but you need to stay within the limit for each category to get your donation back as a dollar-for-dollar credit.

CAN I GET A CREDIT FOR DONATIONS MADE THAT EXCEED HOW MUCH I OWE IN TAXES?

Sorry, but no. If your tax liability — the amount of taxes you owe for a given year — is less than your donation, the credit can be used only to reduce your liability to zero. You can’t get an additional refund. However, unused tax credits, except for donations made to the military-family funds, can be applied to future tax years, but not beyond five consecutive years.

IF I CLAIM A TAX CREDIT, CAN I ALSO WRITE OFF THE DONATION ON MY TAXES?

Generally, donations claimed as a tax credit cannot also be used as an itemized deduction on your Arizona income tax return. You may be able to deduct the contributions made before December 31, on your federal tax return, again depending on your situation. See a tax professional for help.

ONCE I MAKE THE DONATION, HOW DO I GET THE CREDIT?

If you donate to a public or private school or a qualifying charity, you claim a credit on your state income tax return.

Use  Form 321 for donations to charitable organizations when filing your current year's taxes. Donors will be required to enter this number on their tax returns to get the credit. Quest’s code is 22032.

WHAT IS THE DEADLINE?

For federal tax deduction purposes, all donations are deductible only in the year paid. Contributions in all other categories must be paid on or before April 15 — those made between Jan. 1 and April 15 can be claimed on your current year's Arizona income tax return.

How did Quest adapt during COVID-19?

Quest for Education and Arts is an enrichment center with a focus on customizable education, but amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, we concentrated our attention on utilizing our resources to support our community. In March of 2020, we launched our C3 community impact project. With grants from organizations like One AZ Credit Union, foundations, and private donors we have been able to provide over 2,700 STEAM kits, created and distributed over 2,000 masks, offered over 65 workshops and community events, and provided over $31,000 in food and medical relief funds. 

WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR ATTENDANCE IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19?

Quest believes in the freedom and rights of each individual to make educated decisions for their own person and family. We recommend KN95 or equivalent face masks and suggest individuals strongly consider vaccination as appropriate for their situation with consultations from their healthcare provider.

what if I have been exposed?

If you have been exposed to COVID or any other spreadable illness, please stay home until you are fully recovered. To maintain the health and safety of our community and due to the extremely contagious nature of the current illnesses, we are adjusting the policy to include the following:

• If you or any member of your household is sick, please stay home. We can make accommodations for you to attend online.

• If you have been exposed to COVID-19, please quarantine for 5-7 days.

• If you have been sick, you may return to campus after being asymptomatic AND fever-free for 48 hours.

• If you have any symptoms including those that make look or feel like allergies, please stay home for 48 hours and get a negative COVID test.

Please know that COVID-19 is not the only contagious illness currently active. We would like everyone to be cautious so we can continue to be in person for the rest of the year. As always, if you have any questions, please contact the office at office@questforeducationandarts.com or call us at 520.818.8064.