For Jack Erskine and Christy Close Erskine, Cascades Academy provided something deeply meaningful: peace of mind about their child’s love of learning. When their daughter Maddy, class of 2016, joined the school in sixth grade, she was emerging from a difficult experience with bullying and feared she was losing her natural curiosity. As lifelong learners, that concern struck at the heart of their family’s values. From their first conversation with Blair Jenkins, then Head of School, they sensed that Cascades Academy could offer something different — a safe, supportive environment rooted in curiosity, respect, and joy. Over time, they watched Maddy’s confidence and love of learning return.
As they considered their long-term philanthropic goals, the Close Erskines kept coming back to education as one of the most meaningful ways to make a lasting impact. Supporting young people in developing critical thinking, creativity, and compassion felt like a powerful investment in the future. Including Cascades Academy in their estate plans reflects that belief. Their bequest will help sustain the school’s excellence — particularly by supporting the recruitment and retention of outstanding faculty — while their annual gifts address more immediate needs, bridging the gap between tuition and the true cost of an exceptional education. Together, these commitments reflect a deep partnership with the school and a shared hope that it will serve future generations.
Honoring Blair Jenkins through this gift felt especially meaningful. “Blair’s steady, values-driven leadership shaped the school in profound ways, and she played a pivotal role in helping Maddy rediscover her sense of belonging and joy.” By contributing to an endowment that supports competitive faculty salaries, the Close Erskines are helping sustain the vision she championed: ensuring Cascades Academy continues to nurture both the minds and hearts of its students.