The Ely Folk School is excited to announce a sliding scale pricing structure for select classes in 2022! We recognize that not all our class prices are accessible for our whole community, and this system allows folks to choose how much they pay for a class. Using a sliding scale helps us work toward our belief in economic justice and accessibility of folk education. 

Currently, classes are chosen for the sliding scale by instructor choice. Instructors, if you would like to learn more or volunteer your class, please contact us! 

Potential students will be able to evaluate their financial capacity and choose one of three payment levels: 

1. Supporting ticket: are those who live day to day with relatively low financial worry. This level will support the longevity of the program and help cover the cost of tickets for those unable to pay the full price. 
   
2. Standard ticket: is for folks who are able to pay the fee asked if the class did not include the sliding scale structure.
   
3. Supported ticket:  is available for folks who struggle to meet basic needs but still want to attend class. 

However you choose to navigate the sliding scale, be assured that all students’ records are kept confidential. 

Still wondering how much you should pay? 

Consider paying more on the scale if you: 

• Have investments, inherited money, or retirement accounts
• Travel recreationally
• Want to support others’ access to Ely Folk School experiences 

Consider paying the standard ticket price if you:

• Already include class prices into a monthly budget
• Are able to pay the full price: tuition plus materials
• In a stable financial position

Consider paying less on the scale if you: 

• Receive public assistance
• Have significant debt
• Incur medical expenses not covered by insurance

For Instructors: 

The Ely Folk School sliding scale has three tiers – supporter, standard, and supported. The standard is the cost of the class as it stands without the sliding scale. We scale up and down the scale by ⅓ the standard price. 

Materials are included in the sliding scale for current classes. Please reach out if you’d prefer that only the tuition be part of the scale.

Current Sliding Scale Classes 

*Call to register