Flexible Tuition & Fees

Investing in education now lays the foundation for developing a love of learning for life.

While we are a tuition-based school, we aim to create a community that is socioeconomically diverse. Our school offers need-based grants to families on a yearly basis. A variety of factors are considered, including family income, number of children, and other necessary expenses.

At Santa Cruz Montessori, we believe that a vibrant and diverse community enriches the learning experience for all. One of the ways we make high-quality Montessori education accessible is through our Flexible Tuition program.

The purpose of Flexible Tuition is to support socio-economic diversity within our school community. Dr. Maria Montessori believed that education should be a force for peace and equity, and we strive to reflect those values in all we do. We know that a range of perspectives enhances classroom conversations, strengthens learning, and helps children grow into compassionate, engaged citizens.

Each year, we dedicate 23% of our operating budget to Flexible Tuition. This investment allows us to welcome families who reflect the richness of the greater Santa Cruz County community. Families may apply for Flexible Tuition once they have submitted an enrollment application and have been notified that there is a space for their child. Families apply for Flexible Tuition through FAST and our Flexible Tuition committee reviews applications, taking into consideration each family’s unique needs.

Families initially apply for tuition assistance during the enrollment process once a space has opened up for their child. To begin the enrollment process today, download the enrollment application form on the How to Apply page or pick one up from the office.

Young Children’s Community (18 months–2.5 years)

Young Children's Community	Monthly	Annual
4 Half Days	$1,272 - 2,545	$12,725 - 25,450
5 Half Days	$1,420 - 2,840	$14,200 - 28,400
4 Full Days	$1,548 - 3,096	$15,480 - 30,960
5 Full Days	$1,752 - 3,505	$17,525 - 35,050

* Tuition includes a snack and lunch of whole, fresh foods

Primary (2.5–6 years)

Primary	Monthly	Annual
5 Half Days	$1,261 - 2,523	$12,615 - 25,230
5 Full Days	$1,505 - 3,010	$15,050 - 30,100
7 Hour Days	$1,667 - 3,335	$16,675 - 33,350
8 Hour Days	$1,828 - 3,656	$18, 280 - 36,560
9 Hour Days	$1,951 - 3,903	$19,517 - 39,035

Elementary (6–12 years)

Elementary	Camp Fee	Annual
Lower Elementary	$175	$15,180 - 30,360
Upper Elementary	$650	$15,410 - 30,820

Wavecrest Junior High – (12–14 years)

Wavecrest Junior High	Fall Odyssey Fee	Annual
	$750	$16,680 - 33,600

Annual Fees

Enrollment Fee: $800 per child
Registration Fee: $500 per child
Tuition Insurance: $650 per child

Multiple Child Discount

A third child discount is available as 25% off of the third child’s tuition.