Value-Based Tuition
We use a value-based tuition model, sometimes called a "sliding scale" or "choose
what you pay." You may self-select your tier, using the honor system. This model is rooted in mutual care, trust, and justice. It honors the wide range of access to resources people have while recognizing the labor, training, and emotional capacity facilitators bring to the work as well as well as the cost of rent, utilities, and resources. Every learner at every rate is invited to participate every day we are open, Tuesday-Wednesday-Thursday 9:30 - 2:30.
Tier 3: Sustainer Rate
Annual (1 payment)
$4,500
Monthly (9 payments)
$530 ($4,770 total)
Monthly (12 payments)
$430 ($5,160 total)
This rate reflects the true cost of supporting a single learner at Bungalow Lane ALC. When the majority of families participate at this level, we can cover living wages for 3 full time facilitators, facilitators’ ongoing professional development, enhanced art/music/academic offerings from outside professionals, and overhead facility expenses.You might choose this rate if:
● You have a stable income and can meet your needs comfortably
● You have access to savings or discretionary spending
● Your household income allows for yearly vacations
Tier 2: Community Rate
Annual (1 payment)
$2,835
Monthly (9 payments)
$350 ($3,150 total)
Monthly (12 payments)
$285 ($3,420 total)
When the majority of families participate at this level, we can cover an average wage for 1 full time facilitator with 2 parent facilitators. We may be able to afford professional development for 1 facilitator per year. Enrichment opportunities will be few and must be less expensive. Outside experts must be free or inexpensive or cost extra to participants. The opportunity to replace worn resources will be limited and dependent partially on donations from families. You might choose this rate if:
● You are managing expenses but have some flexibility
● You are balancing caregiving, education, or lower-paying work
● You believe in the work and want to contribute what you can
Rationale: This tier keeps the community accessible while still honoring the value of time, care, preparation and use of resources.
Tier 1: Supported Rate
Annual (1 payment)
$900-1,200
Monthly (9 payments)
$150 ($1,350 total)
Monthly (12 payments)
$125 ($1,500 total)
You might choose this rate if:
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You are navigating job loss, disability, or systemic barriers
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You are working hard to make ends meet
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You’d like to offer a meaningful trade in place of or alongside money.
Examples of trade:
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Art, writing or design services
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Skill sharing
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Gardening, repair & maintenance work
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Accounting and book-keeping services
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Website management and social media marketing
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Sharing the story of our community with your broader network as a Bungalow ambassador
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Fundraising, grant writing and application
Rationale: This tier supports individuals experiencing financial hardship while fostering community reciprocity and respect.
Let’s explore together what a fair and caring exchange looks like for you right now.
*Yosemite Valley Charter School and Monarch Academy Charter School students can attend a maximum of 2 days per week.
"We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we're curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths."
WALT DISNEY