7. Shop late (or really early) for school uniforms, especially if you need to purchase a particular school plaid jumper, skirt or tie. Uniform apparel companies such as Schoolbelles typically mark down their inventory from the end of November until the beginning of January.
8. Go for used uniforms. Our school offers an exchange program on used uniforms. Bring one, take one at no charge. Goodwill and second-hand resellers are also good places to shop.
9. Work part-time at the school. Consider working in the school office, on the playground, or in the cafeteria in exchange for a break on your tuition.
10. Offer your skills in exchange for a tuition discount. Does your school need a new website? Or could the computer lab use some maintenance? Maybe the classrooms need painting? If you have a skill that the school could use and would otherwise have to pay someone for, ask if you can work out an exchange.
11. Help out another parent. Offer to transport a working parent’s children to and from school in exchange for gas money or arrange to provide after-school care to one or two children whose parents work until 5pm.
12. Encourage relatives to give the gift that keeps on giving. When grandparents and others who love your children ask what they can give them for birthdays or Christmas, suggest a donation into a private school education fund. It may not be as fun as a ZhuZhu pet or a video game, but it’s a much better investment.
This is probably not an exhaustive list, but as my father-in-law would say, “it’s a good start!” I’d love to hear any of your ideas for making private school tuition do-able in your family.
Amy Magan
The 4th Frog Blog
Thanks again Lady Amy for sharing your wisdom! We appreciate it!
If you are interested in guest posting on the Back to School Bonanza, please e-mail me! I’m particularly looking for posts sharing tips to saving with a student in Middle School, Shoe shopping tips, and sports/extra curricular savings!
www.queenoffree.net
