Disclosure :: This post is sponsored by Ascension Episcopal School.
Making Private Education Affordable: Exploring Tuition Assistance Options
Have you ever considered sending your child to a private school but assumed the cost was beyond your reach? Many families dismiss private education as an unattainable dream without exploring the options available to make it more affordable. The truth is, most private schools understand the financial commitment and offer resources to help families manage tuition costs. Below are some key questions to ask when considering a private school for your child:
1. Do You Offer Need-Based Financial Assistance?
Many private schools have robust financial aid programs designed to support families who demonstrate financial need. These programs are often funded by endowments, donations, or the school’s operating budget. Ascension Episcopal School provides need-based financial aid to support families who qualify. Our tuition assistance program is funded through our annual budget as well as generous donations, ensuring that deserving students have access to the excellent education we provide.
2. Is There a Multi-Sibling Discount?
If you’re considering private education for multiple children, many schools offer discounts for families enrolling more than one child. At Ascension, we support families with multiple children by offering a multi-sibling discount for application fees upon applying.
3. Do Faculty, Staff or Administrators Receive Tuition Discounts?
If you or a family member works in education—or if you’re considering employment at the school—there may be discounts available for faculty and staff. These discounts can vary in percentage but are a great way to make private schools a more viable option if you are an educator or administrator. Ascension values its dedicated faculty and staff and offers years-of-service tuition discounts for employees.
4. Are Payment Plans Available?
Many private schools understand that paying tuition in one lump sum can be challenging. Flexible payment plans allow families to spread the cost over several months, making it more manageable. Be sure to ask about interest rates or fees associated with these plans. At Ascension, we offer monthly, semester, or yearly plans to ease the financial burden by providing a variety of payment options.
5. Do I Qualify for Louisiana Private Education Credits or Deductions?
With recent legislation in Louisiana, families can benefit from financial credits or deductions when choosing private education. Louisiana offers the Tax Credit program and the LA GATOR program (beginning in the fall of 2025). Information about these programs and your eligibility can be found at these sites.
– https://revenue.louisiana.gov/IndividualIncomeTax/SchoolExpenseDeduction
– https://doe.louisiana.gov/topic-pages/louisiana-school-choice/la-gator
Families should consult with their financial advisors for more information and any qualification questions.
Private education offers numerous benefits, including smaller class sizes, individualized attention, opportunities for participation in sports and activities, and specialized programs. With the right financial strategies, it can be more affordable than you think. Don’t let cost deter you from exploring this worthy investment in your child’s future. Ascension Episcopal School is committed to providing a high-quality, faith-based education while making it accessible to families from all financial backgrounds. Let us partner with you to make this opportunity a reality for your family. Reach out to us today to visit our campuses and explore your options.