Frequently Asked Questions
What is the class cancellation policy?
All cancellations up to 10 days before a class incur a 25% cancellation fee. No refunds are available for any cancellations made within 10 days of a class.
I enrolled in a class but I need to cancel, how do I do that?
Please email registrar@driftlessfolkschool.org to let us know.
What should I do If a class is full?
Join the waiting list! Not only does this secure your place in line in case a spot becomes available, but this also helps us understand the demand for a class. Long waitlists let us know that we should add more classes to the schedule, and we will contact waitlists to let them know if new dates are added.
I’m interested in teaching with the folk school. How do I submit a course proposal?
Wonderful! Please fill out our course proposal form here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd9FiX2fCs57VGoiuYKDOo8URs5DEe3ZRWk228BvRABB5usdg/viewform
The course proposal process is as follows:
1. Complete this interest form, which will ask for your contact details, your teaching experience, and details about the class(es) you wish to propose.
2. The DFS programming committee will review your proposal. The committee meets monthly, so please allow up to a few weeks for a response.
3. DFS may request additional information by email, or request a phone call to discuss your vision for the class in more detail.
4. You will be informed by email whether your proposed course has been approved. Upon approval, we will ask you to fill out a detailed course description form for final details, like your preferred class dates and minimum/maximum class size.
The DFS Registrar will be your contact person throughout this process. Feel free to reach out with any questions: registrar@driftlessfolkschool.org or 608-284-8524.
What are the Sliding Scale Pricing Guidelines?
At the Driftless Folk School, we aspire to make our classes available to anyone who truly wishes to participate, and at the same time to support our instructors with respect and gratitude. We have now begun listing our courses with “Sliding Scale” payment options for our basic Course fees (Materials fees are fixed, and are listed separately). To help you decide which level is for you, we offer the following guidelines:
Supporter Level Ticket:
If you move through the world with financial ease and the means to fulfill many of your wants as well as your needs – you are able to eat out when you want, abundantly meet your needs through employment or can comfortably not work, have access to family wealth, own property, etc. – consider paying at this level, which will help us ensure the long term sustainability of our programs while keeping our offerings accessible to those with access to fewer resources.
Sustainer Level Ticket:
If you are able to meet your needs with relative ease while budgeting your educational and entertainment spending – for instance, you are able to take classes and eat out occasionally as long as you are mindful – consider paying at this level, which will help sustain the work of the Folk School at a modest level.
Supported Level Ticket:
If you struggle to fund your basic needs and have limited access to resources in your family and community, or if you would not be able to access this offering without a discounted payment option, consider paying at this level. We value your presence and contributions to our community and do not want any economic circumstances to be a barrier to attendance!
Is the school open for visitors?
DFS classes occur in a wide variety of locations in the Driftless Region. Many folk school classes take place at the Thoreau College campus, but this building also serves as a residence for Thoreau College students and fellows, and an appointment would be required to visit outside of scheduled classes.
Can I purchase Gift Certificates?
Yes! Folk school classes make excellent gifts, and can be purchased year round from our booking page: https://bookwhen.com/driftlessfolkschool. We are happy to create options for custom amounts if you don't see the value you wanted listed. Contact the registrar at registrar@driftlessfolkschool.org or 608-284-8524 for custom gift certificates.
What is the DFS Circle?
Members of the DFS Circle represent the folk school's governing body. Comprised primarily of volunteers passionate about community, self-reliance, traditional skills, and the Driftless Region, the Circle meets regularly to steer folk school programming and planning. Meet the DFS Staff + Circle!