Contribution Philosophy

Wildwood ALC is a nonprofit, inclusive community that seeks to be available to people based on fit, not income level. We utilize a sliding contribution structure where each family pays a reasonable and agreed upon personalized Out-Of-Pocket amount according to their personal financial situation. To bridge the gap between Out-Of-Pocket contributions and the actual costs of operating the program, we work to secure supplemental funds from external scholarships, donations and fundraising. This unique philosophy helps us be a diverse and equitable community (which benefits all community members).

HOW IT WORKS:
Each family agrees to an affordable/reasonable yearly personalized Out-Of-Pocket (OOP) contribution amount based on their income and family size (adjusted if starting mid-year). To keep OOP amounts affordable (and Wildwood accessible), we are fortunate to be able to utilize the Opportunity Scholarship (OS) program in North Carolina. ALL families in NC of ALL income levels (large or small) are eligible for the OS and applying is an essential part of our enrollment process. We currently prioritize families who are receiving, or who have applied for, the OS by the application deadline and the application deadline for the 2025/26 school year ENDS on MARCH 6th, 2025.
**MID YEAR? OUSTIDE THE OS APPLICATION WINDOW?- Absolutely DO reach out to see if we have space! We typically just ask that folks apply when the application window re-opens. TENNESSEE residents aren’t eligible for the OS in NC, but we have a different process with a similar outcome for you—reach out to us for details.

Out-Of-Pocket determinations- While the Opportunity Scholarship provides tremendous support to our community and lowers contribution amounts for everyone, it is not comprehensive. Therefore, each family also provides a reasonable, personalized Out-Of-Pocket (OOP) contribution annually. To determine this amount, you will be guided through a brief process to estimate how much the NC Opportunity Scholarship may or may not cover, and based on that, a personalized contribution amount will be calculated according to your income and household size. If the OOP amount proposed is prohibitive- OR- if you are able to pay beyond the suggested amount, there will be an opportunity to propose a different amount. All contribution proposals are considered within the context of the programs yearly budget.

At the root of this process is TRUST.
The Wildwood community trusts that each family will thoughtfully and honestly consider/communicate their situation -AND- families trust that the contribution process is carefully created with positive intent while balancing individual needs with the ongoing health and sustainability of our community.

We are happy to clarify ANYTHING about this process and always willing to discuss possibilities…so please reach out if you have questions. To learn more about the enrollment process click here.