How far in advance should I register for a course?

For most classes, we recommend registering 2-3 months in advance; although we will continue to accept registrations on a space-available basis until a class reaches its capacity (most classes have a maximum between 6 and 15 students). If the class you hope to take is full, we are happy to place you on a waiting list in case there is a cancellation. When there is space available, we will accept registrations up until the day before the class begins.

Do I need a car?

Not necessarily, though it certainly simplifies things. Getting to and from the airport, or bus and train stations will require taxi service, but if you are staying on campus, you can be fairly self-sufficient once you are here. We have loaner bikes and are willing to give lifts to the grocery store, if need be. There is free bus service throughout the Mad River Valley during the winter months.

Will I be able to communicate with the outside world?

Cell phone reception is limited here in the Mad River Valley. We suggest that you bring a phone card for long-distance calling, and we have a phone line  for student use in the dorm area. We have DSL internet capabilities and three dedicated computers for student use. We also have wireless internet available if you would like to bring your own laptop.

How do I get to Yestermorrow without a car?

The nearest airport is Burlington International (BTV) which is about 50 minutes away, at which you can access all major car rental companies. We can help you arrange for cab service between the airport and Yestermorrow (approximately $80 one way). There is Amtrak and bus service to Montpelier and Waterbury (both approx. 30 minutes from Yestermorrow), and cab service can also be arranged (approx. $50 one way). For more information on public transportation options please visit our Directions page.

When should I arrive?

Unless otherwise noted, one-, two-, and three-day workshops begin at 9am. One and two-week courses begin at 5pm on Sunday. Check individual course descriptions for special notes on start dates and times.  Please arrive at least 15 minutes early to allow time for check-in. If you will be staying in on-campus lodging, please allow enough time to get settled in. If you are going to be late, please call to let us know!

If you are staying on campus, and will be arriving outside of our normal office hours (8:30am to 5pm), please give us a call in advance. We are happy to leave a dorm room key and/or a campus map in an envelope outside our front door for late arrivals.

What is the tuition payment schedule, and what if I need to cancel from the class?

To hold your space in a class, we ask for a non-refundable deposit when you register ($100 for 2-3 day workshops; $300 for 5-6 day courses; and $500 for two-week courses). The balance is due no later than two weeks prior to the course start date. You can earn discounts by paying in full at least 30 or 60 days in advance of the course start date.

If you cancel your enrollment from a class during normal office hours at least two weeks prior to the class start date, we will refund all payments less the deposit and a $25 fee. No refunds will be given for cancellations after the 2-week deadline; the deposit for the class will be forfeited with the remainder held as a credit.

Yestermorrow charges a $25 fee to transfer from one class to another if the transfer occurs at least two weeks prior to the start of the class from which you are transferring.  If transferring from one course to another less than two weeks before the start of the course from which you are transferring the original deposit will be forfeited. The remainder will be held as a credit which can be applied to another class.

Why does my class have a materials fee?

A materials fee, in addition to class tuition, pays for materials used by individual students in classes that have a personal project component. In essence, the fee enables students to purchase those materials, and bring them home with them after the class.

How do meals work?

For a reasonable cost, we offer 3 meals a day, 7 days a week cooked and served right here on campus.  Complete details can be found on the Meal Plan page.   There are also numerous restaurants (from pizza to 5-star) in the immediate vicinity and we offer a small self-service kitchen for students who want to prepare their own meals.

Can I bring my dog?

No dogs are not allowed on campus (or pets of any kind). There are two local kennels and a doggie daycare nearby; please inquire for more information. Please see our Health and Safety Policies.

For whom are we building the class project?

Productive classes are reliant on worthwhile projects. For classes with a group project component, our priority is for the project to optimize the learning potential for the students and meet the teaching goals of the instructors. Our order of preference in looking for quality class project clients is:

  • Yestermorrow school (dependent upon campus needs)
  • Community groups, non-profits and local public and private schools
  • Private individuals.

Depending on the class, some project work may take place at the client's site, and we will provide transportation to and from the site. For more information, please visit our In the Community page.

How many people share a dorm room or cabin?

We generally put two people together in our dorm rooms or cabins. In extremely busy situations, we may put a third. We keep genders separate, unless you are attending with your spouse or partner.

Can my family (or friend) stay with me in the dorm/cabin even if they are not taking a class?

Absolutely, although they will need to pay the nightly lodging rate.

What should I bring?

If you are taking a shop class or hands-on building course, please bring appropriate safety equipment (eye and ear protection). Safety glasses and ear protection are available for sale in the Yestermorrow office. It is not necessary to go out and purchase tools before a class. In fact, it is better to try out the tools we have to allow you to make more informed purchasing decisions. Sturdy work or hiking boots are recommended. If you are taking a design class, please bring personal project information, site plans, articles, drawings, photos, clippings, or whatever else will assist you with the design process. If you are staying in one of our cabins or in our camping area, please bring a sleeping bag, pillow, towel, and flashlight or battery-powered lantern. We provide linens and towels for students staying in dormitory rooms. In general, a flashlight, a notebook, camera, raingear and comfortable clothing are recommended. If your class does not have evening sessions, you might consider bringing a good book or DVD's to keep youself entertained.

What is the surrounding area like?

We are located in the Mad River Valley, in the geographic center of Vermont. We are about midway (2-3 miles) between two small villages, Warren and Waitsfield. Waitsfield is the Valley's commercial center, with grocery, natural food, hardware stores, restaurants, etc. Though rural, the area is a resort center with Sugarbush and Mad River Glen ski areas nearby, so there are quite a few amenitie

Do I need to have health insurance to sign up for a class?

Students enrolled in courses involving hands-on site or shop work must have major medical insurance coverage in effect for the duration of the course.  All students must fill out an Emergency Contact Form and Hold Harmless Agreement prior to the course start.