How It Works

Tuition & Costs

How much does online public school cost?

No tuition is required for students to attend Kent County Digital Scholars (KCDS). As an online public program, KCDS is a tuition-free alternative to homeschooling. Since students can enroll online, we’re able to make quality education more accessible for Kent County, Maryland, students in grades 1–12.

Just as with onsite public schools, there are some fees for supplies and materials to help your child be successful with online learning. Read below for more information about how online public programs are funded and what costs families can expect to incur.

Quick Facts About Online School Fees

Families do not pay tuition for a student to attend an online public school. Students must have access to a computer with an internet connection. Based on family income guidelines, loaner computers may be available, and internet stipends can help defray the cost of internet services. Common household items and office supplies, like printer ink and paper, are not provided. Our enrollment consultants can help address your technology and computer questions and needs.

No Cost to Families and Students

  • KCDS enrollment
  • Maryland-certified teacher support
  • Live, synchronous online Class Connects
  • Textbooks and course supplies

Family-Supplied Items and Expenses

  • Computer (loaner may be available)
  • Internet connection (stipend may be available)
  • Printer ink and paper
  • Consumable materials as needed, such as pens, pencils, crayons, etc.

How Tuition-Free Online Public School Funding Works

The concept of public funding is at the heart of the tuition-free model of online public programs. Just like traditional public schools, KCDS is funded by taxpayer dollars and state education budgets. This financial support ensures that students can access quality education without the burden of fees. Financial benefits of online public programs include:

  • Lower overhead costs than traditional schools
  • Fewer costs for transportation and facilities
  • Flexibility to accommodate work and school schedules
  • Eliminating geographic boundaries to quality schools
  • Greater accessibility of support services