Affordability and Fair Share Tuition 

Philosophy

Our students make learning happen using the humble tools and materials around them. They have the opportunity to grow in this way as part of a truly supportive community of peers, with the guidance of teachers and staff who model learning as a process. We are not a fancy place, but we are genuine and we put our resources where they matter most. The goal of NS is to provide opportunities to our students, but not through connections to people with privilege or by supplying students with every possible material comfort or expensive learning tool. As an institution, we strive to balance fair compensation for staff, mutual aid, and affordable tuition. Our base “full tuition” rate, paid by some families, is significantly lower than other independent elementary schools in the area, who average at least $5000-$15,000 more.

Fair Share Tuition

Every family at Neighborhood School pays their fair share of tuition. Economic diversity is a core value, and we are committed to equity. Our “full tuition” rate is based on simply dividing all projected expenses by the number of students enrolled. Families can apply to determine their fair share of tuition before our service contracts are due each year. Returning families have priority in the process, as the school highly values long-term participation. About half of school families pay a Fair Share Tuition that is less than the full rate, with approximately ⅓ paying less than half that and some paying as little as $1500. Families who could pay more than full rate give accordingly to the Annual Fund.

School Year 2024-25

Tuition, Fees and Payment Options

Full rate tuition for Levels 1–4 $27,555.00

A tuition deposit of $900.00 is due in April. These deposits are 100% refundable if written notification of withdrawal is received by April 30.

The remaining tuition balance after the deposit and other service costs may be paid by one of the following schedules.

• The balance may be paid in two semi-annual payments, the first by August 1 and the second by January 1. This payment schedule is exempt from finance charges.
• The remaining amount after deposit can be financed for a small fee by Neighborhood School allowing for monthly installment payments.

Monthly Options | Beginning Date
10 Months | August 1
11 Months | July 1
12 Months | June 1

After-School Care (3:30–5:30 pm) is $12.00 per hour, billed monthly.

For Fair Share Tuition questions, please reach out to nsadmissions@gmail.com