Understanding Chesapeake Bay Academy Tuition and Affordability

Chesapeake Bay Academy (CBA) in Virginia Beach is an independent school dedicated to serving students in grades 1-12 with learning differences such as dyslexia, ADHD, and Level 1 autism spectrum disorder. Recognizing that these students often thrive in smaller, more individualized learning environments, CBA provides customized learning plans, advanced technological tools, and small class sizes, typically averaging 6-10 students. While this personalized approach comes at a cost, CBA is committed to making its unique educational model accessible through various tuition assistance and financing options.

The Cost of Education at Chesapeake Bay Academy

Yearly tuition at Chesapeake Bay Academy is $28,270. Tuition alone does not cover the cost to educate a student at Chesapeake Bay Academy. Given the specialized resources and individualized attention provided at CBA, tuition represents a significant investment. It's important to note that tuition costs may not cover all expenses, and families should be prepared for additional fees.

Additional Expenses

Beyond the base tuition, families may encounter additional costs, including:

FACTS Enrollment Fees: All payment plans (except the one-time payment option) require enrollment with FACTS, a third-party fee collector through ACH (Direct Payment) System. Parents/Guardians are responsible for fees charged by FACTS, including a $45 annual setup fee. CBA also charges additional fees for monthly and bi-annual payment plans.
Extended Day Program: CBA offers a Full Extended Day Program that includes Early Drop-Off, Homework Center, and Supervised Recreation on full school days. The fee for the entire academic year is $4,500. Individual components of the program can also be accessed on an as-needed daily basis:
- Early Drop-Off: $3,600 for the year or $30 per day.
- Homework Center: $1,800 for the year or $15 per day.
- Supervised Recreation: $1,200 for the year or $10 per day.
Summer Program: Chesapeake Bay Academy offers a summer program. Summer Learning, Intensive Reading, and Academic Therapy options available. Full and half-day options - pricing varies.
Special Field Trips: Special Field Trips are offered as compulsory and may include a fee (i.e., 8th Grade Seacamp trip). Most do not require an additional fee.

Payment Options and Discounts

CBA offers several payment options to accommodate families' financial situations:

Full Payment Discount: A discount of 2% of tuition will be awarded if payment of the entire balance is received before June 30, 2025.
Payment Plans: All payment plans require enrollment with FACTS and the Tuition Reimbursement Plan, except for a one-time payment option.

Tuition Assistance and Financial Aid

Chesapeake Bay Academy is committed to providing access to its specialized education for families with demonstrated financial need. The Tuition Assistance program offers need-based aid to eligible families.

Applying for Tuition Assistance

Need-Based Awards: Tuition assistance awards are based upon FACTS Grant and Aid Assessment (FACTS) financial assessment of each applicant. In determining need, Chesapeake Bay Academy follows NAIS Principles of Good Practice.
Application Process: Families applying for tuition assistance for the first time should contact the Admissions Office. Returning families currently receiving assistance must submit a new application each year, adhering to a slightly different timeline.

Additional Financial Resources

Tuition Solutions: Tuition Solutions is a low-interest academic loan program working with K-12 schools to offer below-market rates for student education loans.

The Value of a CBA Education

While the cost of attending Chesapeake Bay Academy may seem significant, it's important to consider the value of the education and support provided. CBA's small class sizes, individualized learning plans, and focus on social-emotional development create a positive and comfortable learning environment where students with learning differences can thrive.

Key Benefits of CBA

Individualized Learning: CBA tailors its educational approach to meet the unique needs of each student, capitalizing on their strengths and addressing their challenges.
Specialized Expertise: CBA's teachers possess the patience and skills to work with students who learn differently, providing targeted instruction and support.
Social-Emotional Learning: CBA integrates social-emotional learning into the curriculum, helping students develop essential skills for communication, collaboration, and self-regulation.
Technology Integration: CBA leverages technology to enhance learning, providing students with access to advanced tools and resources.
Positive Learning Environment: CBA fosters a supportive and inclusive community where students feel valued, understood, and empowered to succeed.

Philanthropy and Fundraising

Fundraising and philanthropy are essential to CBA’s ability to deliver its specialized educational program. Donations help bridge the gap between tuition revenue and the actual cost of educating each student.

Chesapeake Academy: A Comparison

It's worth noting that Chesapeake Academy, while sharing a similar name, is a distinct institution. Chesapeake Academy is a co-educational day school serving students from Pre-K 3 & 4 through Eighth Grade. CA tuition includes technology resources, classroom materials, athletic equipment, art supplies, and most field trips. Chesapeake Academy also offers financial assistance on a limited and confidential basis. Every student at Chesapeake Academy receives financial support as tuition only covers about 70 cents of each dollar of expense.

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