Q: What is the purpose of the Waterford Financial Aid Program?
A: Waterford was founded with vision and purpose: to teach students who are ready to learn. Embedded in this is the belief that students who are eager for our curriculum should be able to attend the school, regardless of their ability to pay tuition. Waterford is a diverse community that affirms and values different backgrounds.
Q: Why is diversity important at Waterford?
A: Diversity fosters strength and growth. Differing points of view fuel inquiry that provides an opportunity of greater understanding. Diverse backgrounds and perspectives reflect those of the larger world and help prepare students for life and leadership.
Q: How did the program begin?
A: The Faculty Scholarship Fund began in 1994 under the leadership of Mark Bromley. Nearly 100% of the faculty donates to that fund each year, providing over one full scholarship.
Q: How does the Waterford program compare with that of other independent schools?
A: Waterford supports 39 students on full or partial scholarship or 3.8% of our student body. The Pacific Northwest Association of Independent Schools, the group of schools with which we are regionally associated, posts an average of 15%.
Q: How is the program funded?
A: Restricted annual gifts to the Scholarship Fund totaled $367,000 last year or 81% of the total Financial Aid budget. The remainder was provided through other sources of income. The Scholarship Fund goal for this year is $350,000.
Q: How does Waterford’s enrollment profile compare to our area?
A: Jordan School District reports 10.6% minority enrollment; the corresponding figure at Waterford is 15%. Economic data is not available.
Q: What is the process that an applicant goes through?
A: Waterford financial aid is intended for students enrolling in Classes I-X whose families demonstrate financial need. Admission depends on the contributions that the student can bring to Waterford, including academic accomplishments, character and particular talents. For Middle and Upper School students, the prospective student interviews with and writes an essay for the Scholarship Committee. The applicant’s readiness is assessed through a review of the student’s academic record, standardized testing, teacher recommendations, personal attributes and interests. The applicant's family is required each year to complete the National School and Student Service for Financial Aid (SSS) application. SSS recommends to Waterford the portion of tuition each family can reasonably be expected to contribute. An annual review is made of the student's achievement, merit, conduct, citizenship and participation in the Waterford community.
Q: Who should I call if I know a family that may qualify?
A: Please contact Todd Winters directly. A helpful tool as you consider recommending families is the website, which gives income guidelines and other important information. | 
