FAQs
Why use a sliding scale?
A “sliding scale” system of payment is a way to ensure accessibility for as many people as possible, bypassing the financial gatekeeping of our capitalistic society, and working to redistribute resources/information/experiences with greater parity.
For our apprenticeships, we offer a Managed Slide based on set income brackets (see rubric, below). For most of our stand-alone classes and events, we offer multiple pricing tiers, with the actual cost of the course in the middle, and options for subsidized and supporting/pay-it-forward tickets. We ask and expect that people pay the highest amount they can.
We were deeply influenced by Alexis Cunningfolk’s work at Worts + Cunning Apothecary and are grateful to pass on her knowledge and the “green bottle” graphic at the bottom of the page, as well as the following description:
“The top price is the actual cost of the class. If you choose a ticket price below the top tier you are receiving a discount.
The middle price is for those who are able to meet their basic needs but have little-to-no expendable income. Paying for this class may qualify as a sacrifice but it would not create hardship.
The bottom price is for those who struggle to meet basic needs and paying for this class would still be a significant hardship.
The Pay-It-Forward price is a few bucks above the actual cost of the class and that extra money goes towards supporting scholarships as well as future free and low-cost classes. Essentially it's an opportunity to not only take your class but also support your fellow community members while you're at it. Sweet!”
When I was starting on my medicine journey, I couldn’t afford the cost of herb school. I vowed that if I ever became an herbalist, I’d do my best to make it affordable for other budding herbalists to gain the knowledge I so desperately wished for. So mote it be!
How do I use the Apprenticeship Sliding Scale Rubric?
To use, simply find where your annual household income falls in the top row, and pay accordingly. If you are BIPOC, Trans, or 2Spirit and would like to receive a Social Justice Scholarship that semester, go to the bottom row, and pay accordingly..
What if I don’t know my annual household income, or it varies seasonally?
Just estimate what your household will make during the 3 months of the semester in which you’re enrolling, and multiply that by 4. Next semester, do the same thing. Easy!
What is the Social Justice Scholarship, and how does it work?
This scholarship seeks in a small but meaningful way to replace systemic injustice with the skills necessary to heal and nourish all community members, by offering 50% off the tuition. It is available to students who identify as BIPOC and/or Trans or Two-Spirit.
How do I apply for the Social Justice Scholarship?
There is no formal process to apply. Just note that you’d like to receive the scholarship in the application, and pay accordingly. You may use this scholarship whenever you need.
How do you know people won’t take advantage of this system?
We rely on each other, and trust that people will truly pay the highest amount they can, to continue to support our collaborative mission of providing accessible herbal education for all.
That’s awesome! How do I support this?
Venmo us a donation to @jessica-labrie-3 with the subject “scholarship donation,” and make sure to choose the “pay it forward” option when you’re purchasing tickets to events. Thank you for helping us keep herbal medicine the people’s medicine!
