Frequently Asked Questions
What is Darlington doing?
Darlington is rebalancing tuition rates beginning with the 2022-2023 school year, making
the value of a Darlington education more affordable without sacrificing programs or the
student experience. These rates will remain in place through the 2023-2024 school year.
Why is Darlington doing this?
When John Paul and Alice Allgood Cooper founded Darlington School in 1905, they sought
to provide “the best educational opportunities at the least possible cost.” However,
we have heard from you that affordability can be a barrier. We want to stay true to
the wishes of our founders while continuing our commitment to providing a robust
program full of valuable opportunities for students in our area, our state, and our world.
When will this happen?
The tuition rebalance will go into effect for the 2022-2023 school year and all
rates will be in effect through the 2023-2024 school year.
Why now?
Though Darlington is experiencing an upward swing in enrollment, the rising cost of
education is never far from our minds. We have listened to our community and want
to make this experience as affordable as possible. In doing so, we hope to
encourage more families to consider Darlington, which will strengthen our school
now and for years to come.
How is Darlington able to make this work financially?
At our new tuition price points, we expect an increase in enrollment, which will offset
some of the funds lost as a result of the rebalance. We will also continue to be
grateful for and count on our many loyal donors -- past, present and future -- who
support us through The Darlington Fund and gifts to our endowment.
Why does tuition increase in Grades 3, 6 and 9?
Pre-K to 12 tuition rates are now aligned by cohort, transparently acknowledging the
costs involved in educating students at each level and creating a consistent,
predictable path for families throughout their years at Darlington. Our program
becomes more robust with increased offerings and support as a student progresses
from the Primary Grades (Pre-K to 2), to the Lower Grades (3-5), to the Middle Grades
(6-8), and then the Upper Grades (9-12), so it makes sense that tuition would
increase in Grades 3, 6, and 9.
Why isn’t Upper School tuition changing?
Darlington’s Upper School tuition is already in line with the breadth of services we provide
in grades 9-12 and is comparable to similar independent schools in our region. However,
Upper School students will still benefit from the two-year tuition freeze.
Will this affect Darlington’s program?
All of the high-quality, college-preparatory programs and services provided by Darlington
– outstanding academics, small class sizes, hands-on learning, robust athletic and arts
programs, leadership development, and exceptional facilities – will remain as strong as
they’ve ever been. The only thing changing is the tuition structure.
How will this impact current merit scholarships and financial aid awards?
Families who currently receive tuition assistance can expect a full and fair review of
their financial aid package after they submit their tax documents to School and
Student Services. If you have questions about how the tuition rebalance will impact
your family, please contact Matthew Peer, director of enrollment management,
at
mpeer@darlingtonschool.org.
Will the Legacy Scholarship still be available to children whose parents are alumni?
Beginning with the 2022-2023 school year, the Legacy Scholarship will only be available
to Upper School students. Legacy families in our Pre-K to 8 division can expect to
receive the award again when their student enters ninth grade.
Will new students pay less than returning students?
No. The rebalanced tuition rates will be the same for all Darlington students. Every
returning family will benefit from the rebalance, and a two-year tuition freeze means
all families will have a clear picture of their tuition contributions through the
end of the 2023-2024 school year.
Will other fees increase?
The fees that are currently in place will remain part of the enrollment contract for
all students. Click
here
to see the complete list of Tuition & Fees for 2022-2023.
Will tuition rise in the future?
The tuition rates that will go into effect in 2022-2023 will remain frozen through 2023-2024.
Beyond that, you should expect tuition increases to be consistent, predictable and in line
with rising operating expenses. Darlington is committed to staying true to our founders’
wishes to provide the best educational opportunities at the least possible cost.
Is there anything I need to do right now?
If you plan on applying for need-based financial aid, we encourage you to complete your
School and Student Services (SSS)
application this fall. Financial aid applications are due by Jan. 8, 2022. Reenrollment
contracts will be sent electronically on Feb. 7, 2022, and will be due back on Feb. 21.
