Director of Financial Aid Mary Anne Wetzel ’01 on our kind, thoughtful, and transparent process: “A truly equitable financial aid program benefits all who demonstrate even partial need.”
Thank you for your interest in Rowland Hall. I’m proud to be part of a community that cares so deeply about making a difference in students’ lives and creating a welcoming learning atmosphere for all.
For the 2024–2025 school year, we’ve exceeded $4 million in financial aid awards and scholarships for families that demonstrate financial need. That number grows each year, as does the scope of our financial aid program to cover expenses beyond tuition. Our program is not only sound—it’s increasingly robust. As its director, part of my mission is to educate families about the wide range of people it’s designed to benefit.
As an alum, I’m deeply familiar with the joys and rewards of a Rowland Hall education. But valuing an exceptional early education is not the same as affording it, and many families simply don’t have the means to pay full tuition. Our need-based financial aid program is highly personalized and designed to consider every family’s unique circumstances to identify a realistic tuition contribution that is well-aligned with their financial means.
I can honestly say that our process is thoughtful, human, and kind. Award decisions are made in a room of caring professionals and educators and the results are presented with transparency and clarity.
A truly equitable financial aid program benefits all who demonstrate even partial need. In fact, all of our financial aid recipients fall somewhere between full-pay and no-pay, meaning families from a wide range of income levels pay anywhere from zero to 99% of full tuition depending on their level of need. If any family feels that the cost of full tuition at Rowland Hall is beyond reach, I always encourage them to explore this as an option.
I also encourage families to apply as early as possible. We have limited financial aid to distribute each year, and demand typically exceeds our budgeted funds. The best way for us to meet your family’s needs is to complete your application before the February deadline.
I can honestly say that our process is thoughtful, human, and kind. I personally collaborate with every applicant family to ensure we understand their whole financial picture before the application is reviewed. Award decisions are made in a room of caring professionals and educators and the results are presented with transparency and clarity.
Ultimately, this is about placing your child in an environment that will allow them to become lifelong learners who will make a difference in the world. If that environment is right for your child, I believe the cost should be within your family’s means. I invite you to take some time to read through our philosophy, policies, and steps to apply. I’m always available to discuss your situation in greater detail and to answer any questions. I look forward to it!
Sincerely,
Mary Anne Wetzel ’01
Director of Financial Aid
Affordability