Can I Afford Oakhill? Answers to 5 Big Questions on Cost

 

At Oakhill, we know that considering a private school education is both an exciting and sometimes overwhelming decision for families. Cost is often one of the first things parents think about, so we want to provide open, honest answers about affordability and value.

Here are five of the most common questions families ask—and how Oakhill works to make an independent school education accessible and worthwhile.

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1. Is private school really more expensive than daycare?

Answer: Many families are surprised to learn that Oakhill’s tuition is actually less than the average cost of daycare in the Kansas City area.

• Daycare costs often range from $28,000 to $37,500 per year, depending on the program. Oakhill’s tuition, by comparison, falls between $6,750 and $18,500—often thousands less.

• In addition to cost, Oakhill offers so much more than daycare. Our early childhood students enjoy physical education, foreign language, library, and a structured school day that lays the groundwork for academic and social growth.

Families find that Oakhill provides more value while still being a practical option compared to traditional childcare.

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2. Do scholarships and discounts really make a difference?

Answer: Yes. Oakhill offers a variety of ways to make tuition more affordable for families:

• Merit scholarships (grades 3–8) reward student achievement and are renewable annually.

• Sibling discounts provide tuition savings for families with more than one child enrolled.

• Early pay discounts are available to families who choose to pay tuition in full or in two installments.

These options often help reduce tuition significantly, making an Oakhill education accessible to a wider range of families.

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3. Is an independent school education really worth the investment?

Answer: At Oakhill, we understand that choosing an independent private school is a significant financial decision. That’s why we’re committed to making sure the value of an Oakhill education goes far beyond the cost. Our focus on the whole child—critical thinking, curiosity, and growth—means students aren’t just prepared for the next test, they’re prepared for life.

The results speak for themselves: from the Class of 2025, 17 of 20 eighth graders earned national recognition on the PreACT 8/9, placing in the top 35% nationwide. With small class sizes averaging just 12 students, teachers can personalize learning to each child’s strengths and needs. Advanced learners are pushed further, and those who need extra support get it—often eliminating the need for outside tutoring.

The result? Families see their investment at work every day in their child’s confidence, growth, and academic success.

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4. How do families usually manage tuition?

Answer: Oakhill partners with families to make tuition planning more manageable. Options include:

• 529 Savings Plans with K–12 tax advantages.

• Tuition assistance, with more than $400,000 awarded annually to support families in need.

• Private school loans with flexible repayment options and no penalties for early payment.

For many families, these tools provide peace of mind and flexibility. More importantly, they allow parents to focus on the value of their investment—a safe, engaging environment with low student–teacher ratios, experienced faculty, and countless opportunities for growth.

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5. Even if I can afford tuition, won’t the extras add up?

Answer: At Oakhill, we work hard to keep “extras” affordable and meaningful.

• Meals & Snacks: For Prek–8th grade, breakfast and lunch are included in tuition. Pretoddler–Preschool families may either pack lunch or opt for a school-provided meal plan (available by pre-registration for a fee). In addition, every student enjoys daily healthy snacks included in their student fees.

• After-School Care & Support: Our Kids’ Club offers safe, flexible after-care at a reasonable fee, without the stress of pre-registration. Tutoring is also available for a fee, though many families find that our built-in supports—like our free Homework Room for middle school students and our Learning Specialist team—are all their children need.

• Field Trips & Experiences: While there are some larger experiential trips with costs, many field trips throughout the year are included at no extra charge. The bigger trips provide transformational learning experiences that far exceed their cost, helping students gain independence, leadership, and real-world knowledge.

Families appreciate that the additional costs at Oakhill are transparent, balanced, and designed to enrich each student’s experience.

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Final Thought: Considering a tuition-based school can feel daunting, but at Oakhill, families discover that affordability and value go hand in hand. With flexible financial tools, supportive faculty, and a focus on both academics and character, Oakhill helps families make an investment that pays lifelong dividends.

Ready to learn more? Our Admissions Office is here to answer questions, guide you through financial options, and help you find the right path for your family.