William Lipovsky
Short Answer — The Gardner School’s tuition rates vary by location, program, and the number of children you enroll, but you can usually expect to pay around $300 to $500 per week for a single child. Additional costs include registration fees, uniforms, special events, and field trips.
The Gardner School Tuition Cost
Tuition rates at The Gardner School vary by location and age group. The school offers age-based programs for children ages six weeks to five years.[1]
The Gardner School doesn’t post its tuition rates online; interested clients must first book a tour online for their desired school. The school will provide tuition details and other program information during the tour.[2]
Representatives for The Gardner School could not provide exact tuition rates at any of the locations we contacted without booking a tour.[1]
However, parents in the Chicago area report paying tuition of about $500 per week for a full-time schedule; parents at centers in Kentucky and Ohio report costs of around $300 to $400 per week.
Tuition and fees increase as the child ages and advances into programs for older children.[1]
Note that lunches and morning and afternoon snacks are typically included in the tuition.[1][3]
Available Programs
The Gardner School offers full and part-time schedules within each age group.[2]
Full-time programs include five days. Part-timers have a choice of two or three days.[4]
Available age groups include:
- Infants
- Toddlers
- Twos
- Preschool/pre-K (ages three to five)
- Private Kindergarten
The curriculum is a combination of Montessori and traditional, including enrichment classes like yoga, music, and karate.[5]
The Gardner School also offers a 10-week summer camp program called Camp Gardner for toddlers through pre-K students (billed separately from regular tuition).[6]
Discounts
If you’re enrolling multiple children at The Gardner School, you may be eligible for a discount.[4]
Discount amounts vary by location but are usually around 10% or $5 per week, deducted from the oldest child’s tuition.[1]
Additional Costs
Registration Fee
In addition to tuition, The Gardner School collects a non-refundable annual registration fee at the time of your child’s initial enrollment.
This fee varies by location and will be due at the beginning of each year your child attends The Gardner School.[4]
Uniforms and Supplies
The Gardner School requires uniforms for students beginning at age three. The uniforms must be worn Monday through Thursday, with Friday being a “free dress” day.
Your school will provide you with information on exact costs and how to purchase the uniforms.[3] Typical costs per outfit (including khaki pants and a polo shirt) are around $40 to $45.[7]
Additionally, school supplies, field trips, special events, and other extras are not included with the basic tuition.[4]
Late Fees
The Gardner School will assess a late charge (paid when you pick up the child) for children left at the school past its standard closing time (usually 6 or 6:30 p.m.).[4][8]
Cancellation
You must give a two-week notice if you decide to withdraw your child from The Gardner School, or you will be charged tuition for the final two weeks.[4]
Price Comparison
To compare The Gardner School’s rates with other schools, see our research on the tuition and fees at Primrose Schools, Bright Horizons, La Petite Academy, and Goddard School.
Hi,
I’m interested to enroll my son of 15 months at the west loop location. What are the tuition cost for full time and part time. Thank you!
Hi, Lorena! Unfortunately, The Gardner School doesn’t provide specific costs unless you schedule a tour, so I can’t answer that question. However, you can schedule a tour on the school’s website. Wishing all the best to you and your son!