This is a great point on the competitiveness.
To my earlier point, there was a pony program geared and showing in the AAs. I would not have thought twice to a semester type plan (it was already included in board the lessons you are obligated to pay for/take but if it wasn’t …).
I also think it’s good business when they add lessons to board, so you pay (let’s say) 500 for board, 60 a lesson - they pay $740 a month. Policy on lesson makeup etc I have seem varied, but the barn is guaranteed the 240 a month over board.
Arguably, when you own a horse, have the money for $740 a month paying a semester fee may be within reach. It seems like we are talking lesson programs and not directed at horse owners? I look at the kids in my daughter’s class and school. I don’t know every detail but seeing how we have funds - let’s say for band kids- who can’t afford the cost, or the baseball team- parents would struggle. They have payment plans etc and rely on other parents to donate (which we are more than happy to do).
Obviously no one expects a barn to donate lessons with the astronomical cost of horses, I stand behind that asking Joe Average family for $740 up front would be cost prohibitive.
I don’t know what the answer is, if people have programs that work well for them in that manner great. I just think ignoring how it isn’t feasible for Joe Average family. There is always another lens to look at why programs are dwindling.