Economic advantage should not be, although it often is, the factor that determines whether or not individual children have access to that which will enable the development and unfolding of their full human potential and capacities. This is not only unfair, it is counter to the common good. The purpose of the sliding scale tuition in our school is to make Waldorf education accessible to as many families as possible, balancing the financial health of the school with the recognition that economic obstacles to the free development of individual ability cause in some measure a loss to us all. We balance this ideal with a practical vision of our school’s finances.
Choosing independent education for your child and family is a decision that requires much contemplation both on a philosophical level and a financial level. In an ideal world we would be able to choose the educational system we want for our children on its relative merit and not on financial means. But, since our current reality is such that alternative choices are not fully-funded by government, we, as an organization, must raise the additional need funds to pay our teachers, provide a roof over our student’s heads and supplies for our classrooms.
While we endeavor to keep our fees as low as possible, it is impossible to not have these fees. And while most teachers in a Waldorf school recognize they chose this job more because it is their life calling than for financial reward, we, the school community, must take responsibility for providing a livable salary so that they can be free to provide the best education for our children.
In moving to a sliding scale tuition at Sun Haven Waldorf School, we are placing trust in applicants that they are including all current sources of income, even if unreported, and asking that families consider whether there are sources of funds that can be pursued to supplement the tuition level. For example, several times we have had grandparents assisting with the tuition for their grandchildren. Also, please consider whether choices can be made to free-up funds (e.g., sales of investments). We trust that every family will evaluate their financial situation honestly and provide what they are able to ensure our children get the best education possible.
The money that we pay to the school in tuition should be thought of in the same light as the time and effort we contribute. The gift they represent is our participation in the quality of our children’s (and our own) cultural experience - a gift that enhances the promise of their individual futures. The education each of our children receives at Sun Haven Waldorf School is comprised of experiences shared with every other child in the school. In this way, each parent’s tuition contributes not only to their own child’s education, but to that of all the other children as well. Healthy economic policies must meet and balance our financial realities. These can only be found through the difficult and soul-searching struggles of people working together to build a sustainable community – one which is both socially as well as financially responsible.
If you have any questions about our approach to tuition at Sun Haven, please contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 604.741.0949.
Testimonials
My son's love of nature has only grown since joining Sun Haven Waldorf School for kindergarten in 2008. The fact that the school encourages an exploration of and curiosity about the natural world only solidifies my resolve to expose him as long as possible to this education. And the fact the school is right across from the beach sure doesn't hurt!
It was a huge leap of faith for us to switch from public school to a Waldorf School, but after having both of our daughters at Sun Haven for a full year we know we made the right choice. Our oldest daughter, Maggie, loves being part of a small class and feels that she’s part of a school community – both of these things have made a noticeable difference to her self confidence. Our youngest, Molly, came to the school brimming with self-confidence and we’re finding that it’s being channelled in a really positive way. Her natural creativity and energy isn’t being squashed - it’s being nurtured. These things matter a lot to us. We appreciate the way in which the Waldorf approach adapts to accommodate the individual strengths and personalities of our children.
